A series of social distancing measures have been outlined by European river cruise line A-ROSA ahead of a planned resumption of sailings in June.
The details emerged as the firm revealed it has received unspecified financial support from the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania in Germany, in the form of a guarantee loan.
“A-ROSA is very well equipped for the future, thanks to the guarantee from the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the lending bank and an additional financial contribution from the shareholders,” said managing director Jorg Eichler
A minimum distance of 1.5 metres will apply across each vessel as part of the new on baord regulations.
This will be implemented using a guidance system with aisles as ‘one-way-streets’, floor markings, reduced size of the dining areas and seating groups at the required distance.
Passengers and crew will be required to wear full mouth and nose covering in indoor public areas. This does not apply to those seated at a dining table or in the open-air areas.
The number of people on excursions will be reduced.
All tables will be positioned so the minimum distance required can be maintained with two set sittings for each meal.
Passengers will be served at their assigned table where drinks orders will also be taken. All cutlery racks, table decorations and menus will be removed.
Travellers will be sent a declaration of fitness to travel and the rules of conduct on board prior t departure which must be signed and handed over on arrival at the ship.
They must carry out a ‘self-check’ for Covid-19 symptoms and not travel to the ship if the results are positive.
The health and hygiene rules are based on recommendations of the Robert Koch Institute in Germany and the World Health Organisation and considers the pandemic regulations of the individual countries through which a ships pass.
The ships are already equipped with an air refreshment system that ensures all cabins and public spaces operate using separate air supplies.
“A-ROSA is closely monitoring the requirements of governments and authorities as well as the recommendations from relevant health organisations and is continually updating this concept due to the constantly changing conditions,” the company said.
Eichler added: “River cruises are an ideal and flexible form of travel for a safe relaxing holiday in the ‘new normal’.
“The ships are comparatively small and have relatively few guests on board, so that the necessary hygiene rules can be implemented efficiently.
“The safety and well-being of our guests and employees has always been the highest priority. That is why we have carefully checked every aspect of our trips and adapted them to the new requirements and recommendations.”
UK and Ireladn managing director Lucia Rowe said: “We want our guests to relax on board and enjoy the experience safe in the knowledge they we have placed their health and well-being at the very centre of everything we do.
“Our priority is to ensure our guest have an enjoyable but safe holiday as we begin to re-open our ships to our guests.
“When the travel restrictions are lifted and guests from the UK are able to travel again, we look forward to welcoming them on board.”