Source: Celebrity
As an indication that the beleaguered cruise industry’s plight is coming to an end, the Celebrity Edge has been given the go-ahead to resume cruising in U.S. waters in June.
According to CNN, the Royal Caribbean owned Celebrity Cruises ship has been cleared to sail from Fort Lauderdale in June with paying customers for the first time in over a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“After months of working with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other government officials, our Healthy Sail Panel and industry partners, we can again offer cruise lovers the chance to enjoy the wonders of cruising. We are truly thankful to reach this special milestone,” Richard D. Fain, Royal Caribbean Group chairman and CEO, said in a press statement reported by CNN.
CNN reports that in order for cruises to resume sailing in U.S. waters they must either complete “trial” cruises with volunteers, or comply with the CDC’s vaccination requirements. Celebrity Cruises is opting for the latter, meaning 95 percent of the crew and 95 percent of passengers have been fully vaccinated.
The Celebrity Edge vessel will depart Port Everglades on June 26 with all crew and all passengers over the age of 16 showing proof prior to boarding they have been fully vaccinated. According to CNN, after August 1 that rule will be adjusted to all travelers 12 and up.