The coronavirus variants seem to be the main thing on everyone’s minds lately. They certainly post a significant health risk, but what does it mean for the cruise industry? As of right, we can only make guesses based on the trends that we are seeing. Regardless, the past year has been one filled with ups-and-downs, so it is important to keep something like this in mind so that we can all have realistic expectations. Here are some current events that may help us understand what direction the industry is headed in in regards to the variants.
The US cruise industry hasn’t made any moves… yet
The Delta variant – alongside other COVID variants – has certainly arrived in the United States. Cases now seem to be rising in America. This leads us to a tricky question: should the American cruise industry slow its reopening in light of the rising cases? This could happen, but it should be noted that as of right now there have been no changes to the reopening of the industry. Things are still moving forward. The fact that most cruise lines currently have vaccine requirements in place could be a major help here. If the Delta variant is largely affecting those who are unvaccinated, as some sources are suggesting, cruise lines may be safe to operate as long as the majority of guests have been vaccinated.
The CDC tightens UK restrictions
While there may not have been any significant shifts in the restrictions here in the US, other countries are battling stronger outbreaks of the variants. In response to this, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) in the US raised its travel warning for the UK. The warning is now at the “very high” level. Americans are being told not to travel to the UK unless necessary, and if they must, it is advised that they only do so if they are vaccinated. If cases rise, cruises to the UK (and perhaps surrounding areas) may need to be cancelled as per CDC restrictions. We will have to wait and see.
Cruise stocks see a downturn
Another bad sign for the industry came on July 19th when stock in various cruise lines took a nosedive thanks to the concern around the COVID variants. Royal, Carnival, and Norwegian stock all fell about 5%. While this doesn’t necessarily mean that any new restrictions are coming, it may reflect a general apprehension around taking cruise vacations at this time.
So is the cruise industry going to see yet another dark age thanks to these variants? We can’t say. We will cautiously predict, however, that further restrictions may be implemented going forward, particularly where travelling to regions with large outbreaks is concerned. We will have to wait and see.
