At a time when several international Disney Parks have temporarily closed and the remaining open parks are seeing significantly decreased attendance, it’s certainly understandable to be fearful of the current worldwide outbreak. That concern extends to travel aboard the Disney Cruise Line as well. The global response to the health crisis is rapidly changing from day to day, so always be on the lookout for policy updates. However, let’s take a look at where things stand at the moment in regards to cruise travel specifically.
First, I am not just blowing smoke when I say I am a professional cruise expert. I have been setting sail nearly my entire life, since before I was even two years old and well before Disney was even a blip on the cruise radar. In fact, I have taken over 150 cruises, and I’m only 36. Besides contributing to MiceChat, I am the founding editor of Popular Cruising, the Cruise Editor at TravelAge West and I write regularly for various publications including the Travel Channel, as well as Cruise Travel and Porthole magazines.
The bottom line is that cruising as a whole is generally a safe form of travel, and Disney is a very hygienic operator. The cruise line regularly ranks high in cleanliness report cards pertaining to the norovirus gastrointestinal illness. With that said, contagious diseases such as the coronavirus can spread easily on a cruise ship, but that is also true of any venue dense with people: theme parks, hotels, airports, hospitals, restaurants, etc. Still, there are simple precautions to help you stay healthy, mainly frequent hand washing.
Government Response to Coronavirus
It was quite the surprise when, over this past weekend, cruising was singled out by government agencies. Both the U.S. Department of State and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention came out as advising citizens to avoid cruise travel during the coronavirus outbreak. While the advisory technically applies to everyone, those with underlying health conditions are particularly shied away from cruising. In short, the same people that should be leery of influenza — the elderly, those with respiratory problems, or anyone with a compromised immune system — should stay clear of places they might come into contact with coronavirus.
There have been noteworthy incidents of coronavirus on cruise ships in the news lately, and the disease has sadly been fatal for a few passengers in the aforementioned at-risk category. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) — of which Disney is a member — just last week stated, “Any action to restrict cruising is unwarranted and at odds with the World Health Organization, which continues to advise against the application of travel or trade restrictions to countries experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks.’”
Though we fully expect the cruise industry to be a good global partner and revise their itineraries as necessary to avoid exposing their guests to unnecessary risk.
CLIA and Disney’s Response
The cruise industry is doing everything in its power to combat the spread of coronavirus, and according to a CLIA meeting with Vice President Mike Pence, cruise lines and government agencies are working together to enhance and maintain public health. Additional details on protocol are expected this week.
In the meantime, Disney has made its own statement regarding cruise travel:
“Information on Coronavirus Disease 2019 continues to evolve quickly and Disney Cruise Line is closely following guidance from health officials and authorities in the ports of call we visit. We are also committed to keeping our Guests informed and updated, and are happy to address any questions our Guests have in advance of their cruise vacations and once they’re onboard. The health and safety of our Guests, as well as that of our Crew Members, is our primary focus.”
To that end, the cruise line is blocking any passengers and crew who have traveled from, to or through China, including Hong Kong and Macau, South Korea, Italy, Iran or Japan, within 14 days of departure from boarding the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, Disney Magic and Disney Wonder. The same is true of anyone who has had contact with said travelers. Per Disney’s regular policy, all will be screened, and anyone who feels unwell with gastrointestinal or flu-like symptoms (fever over 100.4º F, chills, cough or difficulty breathing) will not be permitted to set sail. Plus, anyone currently boarding, regardless of their condition, will have their temperatures checked as a further precaution.
Disney also makes a point of highlighting its sanitation procedures, not the least of which is the extensive cleaning of high-traffic areas (including handrails, doorknobs and elevator buttons) and children’s facilities, as well as the cleaning of all staterooms twice a day.
Disney Cruise Line Cancellation Policy
Still, should any passengers wish to cancel their cruise, Disney has temporarily updated its policy:
“All Guests scheduled to depart on the Disney Magic between now and May 8, 2020, and the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wonder between now and May 31, 2020, can change their reservation up until the day before embarkation and receive a 100% cruise credit to be used for a future sailing within 12 months of their original sail date by calling us at 1-866-325-2112 or 407-566-3510 or contacting their travel agent. The credit is non-refundable and standard prevailing rates will apply.”
As for European sailings specifically:
“Guests currently booked on our European sailings through our July 25 departure can change their reservation up until the day before embarkation and receive a 100% cruise credit to be used for future sailing within 15 months of their original sail date by calling us at 1-866-325-2112 or 407-566-3510 or contacting their travel agent. The credit is non-refundable and standard prevailing rates will apply.
“Alternatively, Guests currently booked on our July 13, July 18 and July 25, 2020, European sailings may delay their final payment to 30 days prior to their sailing.”
How to Proceed
The reality is that any disease — norovirus, coronavirus or otherwise — does not originate on a cruise ship; it is brought on board by people. The best way to avoid it is to wash your hands and use basic common sense hygiene.
Disney specifically cites:
“frequently washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the restroom and before eating. Parents can supervise their children to ensure they wash their hands thoroughly. In addition, Disney Cruise Line has hand sanitizer wipes and sanitation stations conveniently available in multiple places on its ships. Guests can also cover their nose and mouth with a tissue (or upper sleeve) when sneezing, and avoid sneezing or coughing into their hands or without covering their nose and mouth.”
Cancellations lead to discounts for those still looking to cruise, so now may be a good time to keep an eye out for deals. Consult your travel agent (we recommend Get Away Today Travel – Be sure to mention MiceChat) to track what specials are currently available. And be sure to add travel insurance in case of unforeseen travel interruptions.
Theme Park Ticket & Travel Savings!
Our partners at Get Away Today help you save money on Disney theme park tickets and travel packages. For Discounted theme park tickets, hotel, airfare, and travel packages to Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, Knott’s Berry Farm and other family vacation destinations, always start HERE: Get Away Today
(When calling, mention MiceChat so you get your special rates and deals!).
Let’s Hear From You
Have stories of passengers held on cruise ships, countries locking down their borders, and crew spreading Coronavirus scared you away from travel? Have you used this health scare as an opportunity to save on your next vacation? Do you think the cruise industry will be severely impacted? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
