MIAMI — Carnival’s announcement last Friday about eased COVID-19 protocols led to booking activity the following Monday that was nearly double the level for the equivalent day in 2019.

Carnival’s simplified protocols eliminated pre-cruise testing requirements for vaccinated guests, and eliminated the exemption request process for unvaccinated guests, who now will only need to show a negative test result at embarkation. The update is effective for cruises departing on Sept. 6, 2022 or later on voyages less than 16 nights.

“We have previously disclosed strong occupancy projections for the summer, and our bookings through the end of 2022 have also been very solid,” said Christine Duffy, President of Carnival Cruise Line. “With the further alignment of protocols to other vacation choices, our guests are booking the remaining 2022 inventory, and getting a head start planning for 2023.  Mid-August is typically not a busy month for cruise bookings, but it’s clear that pent-up demand for Carnival has not been satisfied and guests are responding very favourably to our updated protocols.”

Duffy added that Carnival remains committed to the health and safety of guests, crew, and the communities it visits, and will continue to work with medical experts and public health officials to refine its protocols responsibly.

Voyages 16 nights and longer will continue to have vaccination and testing requirements that are specific to the itinerary. For requirements for long voyages, click here.