Leisure cruising has been suspended for months across the world due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, two countries have resumed cruising operations with new health and safety protocols in place.
The Mein Schiff 2 has set sail from Germany on Friday, July 24 with 1,200 passengers, according to Travel + Leisure. The ship was only filled to 60% capacity and had no scheduled stops. It journeyed into the North Sea and returned to home port on Monday, July 28.
Finally at sea 🚢 – With 1200 passengers our “Mein Schiff 2” is leaving #Hamburg tonight. The first 3-nights-voyage across the North Sea to Norway consists exclusively of sea days. We are well prepared with highest #hygiene and #safety measures on board. pic.twitter.com/DCQLAChZq7
— TUI Group (@TUIGroup) July 24, 2020
Passengers had to undergo temperature checks before boarding, must wear masks and stay five feet away from fellow passengers at all times.
The Mein Schiff 2.
In Taiwan, the Genting Hong Kong’s Explorer Dream set sail for nearby island hopping on Sunday, July 27 with some 900 passengers (a third of the ship’s capacity). The ship has 22 isolation wards should any passengers fall ill, reports Reuters.
Explorer Dream Resume Cruising in Taiwan https://t.co/0fOaj5WlVB pic.twitter.com/o5ejSSGBVM
— Cruise Industry News (@CruiseIndustry) June 29, 2020
However, certain facilities are closed including the spa, casino and buffet. Dining tables are separated by screens.
Image credit: Twitter/ToddWortman
