As vaccinations roll-out and the world returns to semi-normal, the 400-plus cruise liners worldwide that have been laying anchor for more than a year are finally leaving the docks and sailing back into the deep blue.
But it won’t be ‘business as usual’; the best cruise lines plan to make their return ‘business better than usual’.
Here are five more reasons why South Africans should consider a cruise holiday in the Summer 2021/2022 cruise season.
The cruise sector, perhaps more than any other in the travel industry, suffered a serious blow last year due to Covid-19 outbreaks on several cruise liners early on in the pandemic.
This is why the cruise sector, spearheaded by the Cruise Lines International Association, has been stringent about implementing the strictest health protocols for cruise liners returning to the seas. These include rapid Covid-19 tests before departure, masks where necessary, regular sanitisation of public areas and greater social distancing, to name but a few of the health protocols.
It’s not yet clear whether Covid-19 vaccinations will be mandatory in order to book a cruise holiday. However, by the time the Summer 2021 cruise season kicks-off, South Africa’s vaccination roll-out should have expanded to include all adults, so vaccinations shouldn’t be an issue.
With cruise lines limiting the number of passengers, expect less crowds and more space onboard.
An added bonus is the embarkation and disembarkation time between land trips should be shorter due to less passengers having to be processed, which means more time for excursions!
With theatre, cinemas, clubs and other onboard spaces also limiting the number of passengers to ensure social distancing, passengers have a better chance of front-row seats.
And, with buffets possibly being faded out, more meals will be a la carte, while booked dining is expected to be better rotated.
Bottom line: overcrowded dining and entertainment shouldn’t be an issue with post pandemic cruising.
South Africans have, rather unfairly, been the pariahs of the travelling world due to the Covid-19 strain discovered here. This has led many South Africans to avoid booking a holiday in fear of the ever-shifting travel restrictions and bans from other countries.
Cruise companies are providing a solution to the uncertainty by offering a mix of ‘cruises to nowhere’ or cruises with South African and neighbouring country ports of call only, like Norwegian Cruise Lines’12 Night South Africa & Namibia sailing on board Norwegian Jade. This cruise calls at Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, Richards Bay, Durban, Luderitz and Walvis Bay.
Local cruises like these make booking a cruise for Summer 2021 a safe bet for Saffas, and you get to support the local tourism industry at your ports of call. It’s a win/win.
The cruise industry took a beating last year, resulting in cruise liners offering some incredible deals for the upcoming season. Like Norwegian Cruise Lines’ current promotion offering a discount of 30% off, plus a choice of 5 free at-sea offers.
Contact your nearest Sure Travel agent to book your post-pandemic cruise, or view the NCL special here.
