Royal Caribbean’s first test trip departs from Port Canaveral – WFTV

BREVARD COUNTY, Florida – Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas set sail from Port Canaveral on Tuesday, marking the cruise line’s first test trip from the port since the pandemic.

The ship departs for a two-night simulated cruise to CocoCay.

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“People really want to cruise. They are just waiting. So I am delighted that we are invited to do this and to be able to experience it and tell my clients that it is safe, ”said travel agent and passenger Donna Entrichel.

Once Royal Caribbean leaves Florida with paying passengers, it will “strongly” recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for those who are eligible. Those who are unvaccinated or unable to show proof of vaccination will be subject to additional testing and health protocols at their own expense.

READ: The Disney Dream embarks on a test trip, paving the way for the cruise industry‘s return

The cruise line said the children will be tested for free.

The cruise line has also said that if a certain threshold of COVID-19 is detected on board a ship during a voyage, the trip will end immediately and the ship will return to the port of embarkation.

READ: How do you know if you have the delta variant? What are the symptoms?

The Allure of the Seas could depart Port Canaveral with paying passengers by August 8.