BIG USA CRUISE UPDATE : Not The News You Were Hoping for ?

Editorial Summary

Gary Bembridge discusses the current state of the United States cruise industry, noting that while small ships and river cruises are beginning to operate under strict restrictions, large-scale cruising remains halted. The CDC currently maintains a no-sail order for ships carrying 250 or more passengers, and there is significant tension between the cruise industry and the CDC regarding communication and protocol development. This lack of engagement has complicated crew repatriation efforts, forcing ships to sail to distant territories to exchange staff. To address these challenges, major players like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line Group have formed the Healthy Sail Panel. This group of public health and scientific experts is developing detailed protocols covering passenger screening, onboard disinfection, illness outbreak management, and port activities. These recommendations are expected to be presented to the CDC in late August or September. Potential future restrictions being discussed include lower passenger capacities, changes to buffet services, and controversial measures regarding the separation of passengers aged 65 and older. The creator concludes that while the industry faces significant regulatory hurdles, the proactive formation of expert panels represents a serious effort to restart operations.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.