| Saga says get the jab

SAGA Cruises will require everyone travelling on its ships to be fully vaccinated against coronavirus, the cruise line has announced.

To allow for vaccinations, Saga is moving its restart date to May, with Spirit of Discovery to return to service on 02 Jun, and Spirit of Adventure’s inaugural voyage to continue as planned on 04 May (CW 04 Sep 2020).

Travellers must be vaccinated at least 14 days before cruising, with the new policy in addition to coronavirus arrangements in place for May and Jun sailings, such as pre-departure coronavirus testing in the cruise terminal, full medical screenings, and a maximum capacity of 800.

Saga will also increase crew member to traveller ratios, enhance cleaning regimes, introduce a doubly large medical team, and institute frequent communication with travellers detailing destination-specific coronavirus requirements ahead of departure.

The measures come in addition to ship enhancements, such as air conditioning that provides 100% fresh air in all public areas & cabins, and improved and expanded medical facilities, including a new dedicated isolation area.

Saga’s measures have been awarded Shield accreditation by business services organisation Lloyds’ Register.

“The health and safety of our customers has always been our number one priority at Saga,” a spokesperson said.

“Our customers want the reassurance of the vaccine and to know others travelling with them will be vaccinated.”