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RCCL Explorer cruises into Covid zones. Ridiculous rules. Spoiler Alert!

mauicruiser

By mauicruiser,
in Royal Caribbean International

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Merion_Mom

Merion_Mom

Posted
Posted
1 hour ago, rockmom said:

I have a cruise out of San Pedro in February, so much closer to home (Oregon/Washington) than Florida is for us.  However, when looking at the excursions, there isn't a single one that will allow a child under 12 and we will have a 10 year old with us. This is a short, 3 day cruise with just the one stop in Ensenada over the President's Day weekend.  We expect to have the 10 year old vaccinated by then and maybe if restrictions lift, we'll be able to leave the ship, but if not, pool, slides and arcade will be fine for us.  

 

Even without restrictions, staying on board in Ensenada is always a good choice.  😉 

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drusierdmd

drusierdmd

Posted
Posted (edited)

I'm booked for the 21st explorer.  If it wasn't for the rate (about 2k for 2 adults and one child 6yo in a balcony with prepaid tips) I would cancel.  I was actually looking forward to the freedom amplified upgrades.  I was prepared for the possibility of RCI excursions only and booked all a few weeks ago.  I was disappointed to see no maho beach with "kids" aka unvaxxed...but every other beach is okay apparently.  I probably spent more on excursions than the fare.  

 

That said....tell me if I've got this right: 

 -Adults will need antigen telehealth tests 48h prior. 

-6yo will need in person antigen 48hr prior AND will be tested for free at the port during embarkation. 

-Towards the end of the cruise all 3 of us will receive rapids before we disembark.  

 

I'm fully vaxxed and just got my Moderna booster today.  

Edited by drusierdmd
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AustinCruise

AustinCruise

Posted
Posted
4 minutes ago, drusierdmd said:

6yo will need in person antigen 48hr prior AND will be tested for free at the port during embarkation. 

I’m pretty sure the 6yo will need a negative antigen or PCR within 3 days, but not on the day of travel. And then another test by Royal at boarding. 
 

this is my November sailing. 
 

 

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drusierdmd

drusierdmd

Posted
Posted
2 minutes ago, AustinCruise said:

I’m pretty sure the 6yo will need a negative antigen or PCR within 3 days, but not on the day of travel. And then another test by Royal at boarding. 
 

this is my November sailing. 
 

 

39543BFC-6CEA-414A-9B21-B9C69507417B.jpeg

 

Right, thank you.  

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cured

cured

Posted
Posted (edited)
13 hours ago, mauicruiser said:

Booked on Explorer, whole family for Thanksgiving week out of San Juan.  All vaccinated except 11 year old granddaughter.  Email from RCCL today outlines restrictions.  We expected some but these are ridiculous.  We all must arrive at ship with valid Covid test taken 48 hours prior.  (Puerto Rico does not require test if vaccinated.)  Our granddaughter will be tested for entry into Puerto Rico and retested again at the boarding.  
They advise three islands require ship tours only—Barbados, St Lucia, and St Kitts.  These islands require Covid tests on entry because they are dark red Covid zones.  Two have state dept “do not travel” warnings because of high Covid infection rates.  How does RC get tour exemptions?  Kids are treated like they are high Covid carriers while passengers on tour in these dark red ports are exposed to local adults and then come back to the children who are not allowed off the ship.  Who is the greater risk?  Interesting note that St Thomas and St Croix require Covid tests to enter yet RCCL says vaccinated guests can visit on their own.  ?? Will they drop that shoe next?  Below is part of the notice.

I believe that Royal Caribbean knows that this cruise itinerary should be cancelled.  Thanksgiving week the ship will have lots of families onboard, many with kids under 11.  Some may have first vaccination.  These kids are being relegated to the ostracized class.  We are not willing to leave our granddaughter behind.  The whole point of the cruise was to share travel experiences with the whole family….go to the beach, have a local food lunch….three generations together..11 to 81.

Bucks are the bottom line apparently.  Change the itinerary or cancel the cruise.
We want out and we want our fare refunded.  We are diamond plus members and are really disappointed with the lack of full disclosure by RCCL.

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Not sure what you mean by being disappointed in the lack of full disclosure from RCL.

 

Surely, as a diamond+ member, you are aware of RCL's website?  These protocols have been published under their Healthy Sail Center pretty much since cruising re-started. The link to the health protocols is at the top of the landing page of the website in big letters.

 

Surely, since you have been a member of CC since 2002, you have seen the multitude of daily threads on covid testing and was aware of the testing protocols of not only the children but adults too.

 

Since November protocols have now been announced and they have not changed for the past few months, you should be able to get a refund by saying you claiming you cannot abide by the protocols.

 

I hope you have a pleasant family Thanksgiving whether on a ship or a land based Thanksgiving.

Edited by cured
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cured

cured

Posted
Posted
1 hour ago, mauicruiser said:

You cannot a full refund, just a future cruise credit valid for a fixed amount of time.

Have you called back in the past 24 hours? The November protocols were just announced yesterday so now you should be able to get a refund.

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cured

cured

Posted
Posted
52 minutes ago, Love2cruise77 said:

Their website is not even showing any protocols for San Juan yet.  If sailing from Florida, there seems to be no shore excursion restriction...

They are there.

 

Click on the link at the top of the page of the website that take you to the Healthy Sail Center.

Then click on the far left box that says "check out protocols for your cruise"

Open up the drop down box and click on San Juan

It will take you to the page for all the protocols for San Juan.

 

As for Florida, it is not all cruises sailing from Florida. The only 2 ports that do not have excursion restrictions are Port Canaveral and Coco Cay.  Most sailings from Florida do indeed have excursion restrictions dependent on the countries they are visiting.

 

Here are the San Juan protocols:

GETTING READY TO CRUISE FROM SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO

Here are the latest protocols for our guests sailing from San Juan, which we will continue to update as public health situations evolve. Booked guests will be provided the latest full details prior to sailing.

Guests traveling into San Juan from a country other than the U.S. should be sure to look into any requirements your own home country may have for exiting or re-entering its borders. Additionally, international guests on connecting flights to or from San Juan should make sure to familiarize themselves with local requirements in the country where their connection takes place prior to traveling.

 
 
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Vaccination Requirement

Royal Caribbean guests age 12 and older must present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with the final dose of their vaccine administered at least 14 days before sailing.

All crew onboard the ship and at our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, are fully vaccinated.

Read Detailed Vaccine FAQs

 
 
health-safety-testing-icon-navigation.png

Testing Requirements

Required Testing to Enter Puerto Rico

The island requires a negative PCR or antigen COVID-19 test result for certain travelers to enter depending on their vaccination status and point of origin.

If you’re flying in from the U.S.

  • Vaccinated guests have no testing requirement to enter Puerto Rico.
  • Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to arriving at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.

If you’re flying in from an international country

  • All travelers age 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status, must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken within 72 hours prior to arriving at Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan.

If you are already in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico does not require a test from you.

Guests under 2 years of age do not have test requirements to enter Puerto Rico.
 

All Guests: Required Testing to Board the Ship

You’ll need to bring a negative PCR or antigen test result to the cruise terminal to board the ship. It can be the same result you used to enter Puerto Rico, provided you time it right.

  • Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding day.
  • Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 3 days before boarding day. Kids’ pre-cruise test cannot be taken on boarding day, because that may affect the sample taken during the kids’ test at the terminal.
  • Guests under 2 years of age do not need to complete a pre-cruise test.

Have questions about pre-cruise testing?

Learn more about different options for completing your test
Learn how to calculate which days you can take your pre-cruise test


Kids Age 2-11: Additional Testing

In addition to the pre-cruise test, unvaccinated kids will take two more tests. Royal Caribbean’s test provider will administer these, at no cost to our guests.

At the Terminal
Kids will take a complimentary PCR test when checking in at the terminal. Registration details will be sent via email in advance.

Prior to Disembarking
Kids will take a complimentary antigen test onboard before the cruise ends. Vaccinated guests who require a COVID-19 test for re-entry into their country may receive one onboard as well. Guests will be notified onboard about how to register for this test.

Guests under 2 years of age do not have test requirements to board the ship.

Read Detailed Testing FAQs

 
 
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Travel Documents Checklist

You’ll need to have the following documents to travel to Puerto Rico and board the ship.

Puerto Rico TravelSafe Declaration
All travelers age 2 and up must complete the TravelSafe Declaration to enter Puerto Rico. Guests under 18 must be added to their parent or guardian’s form. Vaccinated travelers (age 12 and up) will need to upload their proof of vaccination. Learn more

  • A TravelSafe Airport Exit Confirmation number and QR Code will be provided once you complete the required Online Travel Declaration Form.
  • A Passport Book or Passport Card, valid for at least six months after your cruise, is strongly recommended. If you do not have a Passport, you may present a state-certified U.S. Birth Certificate (not a "baby feet" hospital certificate or baptismal paper). Guests age 16 and older that present a Birth Certificate will also need to provide a valid Driver's License or picture ID issued by the government.
  • COVID-19 Vaccination Record Card with the final dose of your vaccine administered at least 14 days before sailing. This is a requirement for all guests age 12 and older.
  • COVID-19 Test Result: Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative COVID-19 test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding. Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 3 days before boarding. Read Detailed Testing FAQs
  • Health Questionnaire to be completed on our Royal Caribbean App the day before you board.

Read Detailed Travel Documents FAQs

 
 
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Cruise Ready Recap

Follow these steps for a smooth boarding day.

  • Get Vaccinated: It’s required for guests 12 and older.
  • 30 Days Before: Download the Royal Caribbean App and check in for your cruise. Once in the app, you’ll select a 30-minute arrival time slot for your boarding day. It is very important you stick to this arrival window, as we’re arranging the boarding and testing process to accommodate a certain number of guests at one time.
  • 2 or 3 Days Before: Get your pre-cruise test. Vaccinated guests age 12 and older must show a negative COVID-19 test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 2 days before boarding. Unvaccinated kids age 2 to 11 must show a negative test result for a PCR or antigen test taken no more than 3 days before boarding. Read Detailed Testing FAQs
  • 1 Day Before: All guests must complete our Health Questionnaire on the Royal App.
  • Anytime before arriving in Puerto Rico: Complete your TravelSafe Declaration
 
 
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What to Expect On Boarding Day

Arrive Only During Your Time Slot

It is very important that all guests arrive at the cruise terminal within the arrival time slot you selected during Royal App check-in. Those who arrive early will not be able to begin boarding, and those who arrive late will need to wait until we are able to work them into another group.

  • We’ll guide you step by step on document validation.
  • For those parties traveling with unvaccinated guests ages 2 to 11, we will also guide you through the COVID-19 testing process. Expect a short wait time for results before boarding.
  • Make sure you wear your face mask at all times during the boarding process.

Read Detailed Boarding Day FAQs

 
 
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Onboard the Ship

Mask Guidance

Here’s our current guidance for facial coverings for all guests (except those under age 2, who do not need to wear a mask at any time).

Masks are NOT required to be worn:

  • In open-air areas of the ship, unless you are in a crowded setting.
  • In the pool or any activity where they may become wet.
  • At venues designated for vaccinated guests only, such as select bars, lounges, restaurants and shows.
  • In your stateroom when you are with your traveling party.
  • While visiting our private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay, unless you are in a crowded setting.
  • By any guest under the age of 2.

Masks ARE required to be worn:

  • While indoors in public areas of the ship, unless seated and actively eating or drinking.
  • While visiting public ports of call, where local regulations may require them.

Mask-Free Spaces

Some venues and nightlife events will be for vaccinated guests age 12 and up, only. Masks won't be required in these venues. Vaccinated parents are invited to enjoy these experiences while their kids are living it up at Adventure Ocean. Learn more about vaccinated venues onboard

More Space for Your Family

If you’ve sailed with us before, you’ll notice there are fewer guests onboard, letting you ease back into vacation mode. The ship’s venues are set up to easily allow for physical distancing throughout your time onboard, and there will be signage to guide you.

Dining

All dining areas will feature spaced, sanitized seating. Nearly all restaurants and cafes will be available to all guests, though a select few specialty restaurants may be reserved for vaccinated guests only.

In the Main Dining Room, which spans multiple decks, we will designate areas for parents and kids, and areas for vaccinated parties only. My Time Dining will not be available to parties that include unvaccinated guests.

If you prefer a buffet, Windjammer will be open to everyone for breakfast and lunch, and the food will be served by our crew. We recommend that you make dining reservations via Cruise Planner before your cruise or using the Royal Caribbean app onboard.

Entertainment

Theaters and activity venues will offer spaced seating and more showtimes. Some activities, showtimes, or seating areas will be reserved for vaccinated guests only. Be sure to make show reservations once onboard using the Royal Caribbean app.

 
 
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Going Ashore

Healthy Shore Excursions

Royal Caribbean has worked with local tour operators to ensure they follow our Healthy Sail Panel health guidance for all Shore Excursions. These tours are available at a variety of price points and may be purchased in advance on Cruise Planner or once onboard using the Royal Caribbean App.

Requirements for Going Ashore

Below are our current tour requirements at ports of call, which are subject to change as we continue to evaluate circumstances around the globe.

Vaccinated Guests
Fully vaccinated parties may book a shore excursion or visit most ports freely — with the exception of those listed below, which will require tours for all guests who wish to go ashore, regardless of their vaccination status.

  • St. Lucia (November visits)
  • Barbados (November visits)
  • St. Kitts (November visits)
  • Antigua (November visits)

Tours Required for Families With Unvaccinated Children
Families traveling with unvaccinated kids must purchase a local tour through Royal Caribbean if they wish to go ashore. This applies to all ports of call except Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Port Canaveral, Florida. Vaccinated parents wishing to go ashore freely can visit our youth facilities onboard to learn about drop off program hours and availability, and reserve time for their child on the day they wish to go in port.

 
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Chauncey Picklepants

Chauncey Picklepants

Posted
Posted (edited)

We were booked on November 14 Explorer sailing. Got the email alerting same yesterday.  
 

I called RC today, the agent noted the lack of affordable beach excursions and after she noted only 40 or so spots left on the beach excursions - she suggested asking for refund. 
We cancelled today and will receive 100% refund (3-4 weeks on the refund) due to limited availability of beach excursions. No I don’t want to ride a choo choo train or eat a lobster roll on a catamaran for $200. Two islands, St Lucia and Barbados only had one “beach break”  and the time on one of them was 8-11:45 am with no flexibility. That was our last straw. 

 
The islands are just not ready to receive guests. Rc rolled the dice. Although we’re extremely disappointed, we got a refund and won this round - booked a week in St Thomas at a condo. Lost some airfare money but it’ll end up cheaper and more relaxing. 

Edited by Chauncey Picklepants
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Jimbo

Jimbo

Posted
Posted (edited)
6 minutes ago, Chauncey Picklepants said:

We were booked on November 14 Explorer sailing. Got the email alerting same yesterday.  
 

I called RC today, the agent noted the lack of affordable beach excursions and suggested asking for refund. 
We cancelled today and will receive 100% refund (3-4 weeks on the refund) due to limited availability of beach excursions. No I don’t want to ride a choo choo train or eat a lobster roll on a catamaran for $200. 
The islands are just not ready to receive guests. Rc rolled the dice. Although we’re extremely disappointed, we got a refund and won this round - booked a week in St Thomas at a condo. Lost some airfare money but it’ll end up cheaper and more relaxing. 

Sounds Great, Have fun !! More freedom, sounds like the best way to go on vacation.

Cruising can wait.

Edited by Jimbo
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Chauncey Picklepants

Chauncey Picklepants

Posted
Posted (edited)
10 hours ago, DMWT Cruiser said:

 

What were the terms and conditions of cancellation when you booked?  Are the protocols now in effect for your planned cruise more restrictive than they were when you booked your cruise?

 

Why is it that you "can't sail?"  Or do you mean you prefer not to sail?

There were no protocols for the Explorer sailings because they are just starting out on November 7 and it’s the first ship out of San Juan since March 2020.  No one knew what to expect.  

Edited by Chauncey Picklepants
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Chauncey Picklepants

Chauncey Picklepants

Posted
Posted
15 minutes ago, Jimbo said:

Sounds Great, Have fun !! More freedom, sounds like the best way to go on vacation.

Cruising can wait.

Thank you! My wife and daughter are a little upset about not needing all the snazzy frocks and heels, but son and I are already planning a deep sea fishing day. St Thomas is a wonderful island with a lot of fun options, including loading our rental car on the ferry to St John a few times and hitting up the beaches there with a cooler full of sandwiches and beer .  We spent our honeymoon on St John 36 years ago. I was mid 30s then.  70s now. Seems like yesterday. We will cruise again but this time wasn’t meant to be for us. 

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JCDCA

JCDCA

Posted
Posted
17 hours ago, smokeybandit said:

Rules are no different there than they have been the last month plus.

 

Blame the CDC for holding the cruise lines hostage for another couple months

What does the CDC have to do with this?  The restrictions/requirements for the islands mentioned are the purview of the local governments.  

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mauicruiser

mauicruiser

Posted
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Posted
8 hours ago, cured said:

Have you called back in the past 24 hours? The November protocols were just announced yesterday so now you should be able to get a refund.

I talked with them as well as my travel agent.  No refund only future cruise credit.

booked this cruise six months ago.

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Jimbo

Jimbo

Posted
Posted (edited)
6 hours ago, mauicruiser said:

Link doesn’t work.

https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2021/07/01/royal-caribbean-will-refund-your-future-cruise-credits-if-you-dont-new-health-protocols

 

Copy and paste it to your tool bar...............Cruisecritic blocks that site

 

Also read post #59 in this thread, Full credit given because don't like protocols.

Edited by Jimbo
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