An app combined with vaccination and testing is being used by Celebrity Cruises in an effort to keep passengers and crew safe ahead of new UK sailings by Celebrity Silhouette from July 3.
Vaccinated passengers will also require proof of a negative PCR test taken 24-72 hours before the time of sailing.
Children aged 3-17 will need to take an antigen test at the terminal prior to embarkation.
The PCR and antigen tests required will be paid for by the line.
Passengers aged 11 and over will be required to wear an appropriate face covering in the terminal and inside venues on the ship, in line with UK government requirements.
All arrivals and departures will be staggered by appointment and travellers will be able to select their preferred check in times.
“These measures will provide guests with a speedier boarding process in a rigorously sanitised and socially distanced environment,” the line said.
Once on board, the Celebrity Cruises’ mobile app will transform the safety drill into a faster, more personal approach that passengers can complete from their cabin.
Dubbed Muster 2.0, key elements of the drill, including where to go in case of an emergency and instructions on how to properly use a life jacket, will be accessible via mobile devices and interactive cabin TVs.
The app can also be used as a digital cabin key and to book dining and shore excursions.
A ‘cruise with confidence’ policy has been introduced should passengers receive a positive Covid test prior to or during their cruise.
A full refund will be given to anyone who tests positive within two weeks of their departure date, including at the port, as well as any members of their immediate travelling party who have been in close contact with them.
People who have booked before July 31 can cancel for any reason up to 48 hours before departure on sailings through to May 4, 2022 and receive a 100% future cruise credit.
The company added: “It is anticipated that guests will be permitted to debark Celebrity Silhouette and explore independently in ports of call where there are no restrictions put in place by port authorities or local government.”
The Scottish government barred MSC Virtousa, ther first ship to start UK coastal crusies, from calling at Greenock for Glasgow earlier this week.