If you’re waiting for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to release definitive guidance on when it’s safe to cruise again, you might have to wait a bit longer. It’s pulling the old, “I don’t know…what do you want to eat?” tactic, and asking the American public for input. Last week the CDC extended the US cruise ban to September 30, but cruisers are eager to know when they can get back on the water. Last week, the CDC put out a request through the Federal Register, accepting suggestions and ideas to guide public health policy.
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The CDC Is Asking for the Public’s Advice on When Cruises Should Restart
A spokesperson for the CDC told USA Today, “The questions were developed by CDC subject matter experts to inform future public health guidance and preventative measures relating to travel on cruise ships.”
The survey consists of 28 questions, including asking participants what they think ships could do to prevent virus transmission, how often passengers and crew should be tested, and how cruise ships handle potential travel restrictions.
Bari Golin-Blaugrund, senior director for strategic communications for Cruise Lines International Association, told USA Today, “We welcome the CDC’s request for information related to the eventual restart of cruise operations in the U.S. and look forward to working together to determine the best path forward.”
Several cruise lines have canceled their voyages through fall and winter, and Carnival has already announced that it likely won’t sail at full capacity until 2022.
You can submit your comments online or by mail by September 21. 