Carnival Lifts Casino Smoking Ban
As of today, Carnival Cruise Line has lifted its ban on smoking in the casino.
In mid-December, the line temporarily banned any smoking in its onboard casinos due to the rise in Omicron cases.
To smoke in the casino, guests must be seated and actively playing.
And if you’re wondering about masks, they’re required in the casino unless actively smoking or drinking.
STORY: Carnival Updates Protocols to Lift Smoking Ban in Casino
Carnival Rolls Out $10 Pierside Testing
After announcing that it would begin offering pierside testing for ten dollars, Carnival Cruise Line officially began rolling out the program on Carnival Liberty for its February 7 sailing.
The line is only offering the terminal testing for vaccinated guests, and it will only be offered for shorter three and four-night itineraries.
Guests are still encouraged to take their test before arriving at the port, though, as testing capacity is limited.
Second Virgin Ship to Sail Next Month
Virgin Voyages has confirmed that its second ship, Valiant Lady, will begin sailing next month.
The vessel will began sailing from Portsmouth, England in March before moving to Barcelona in May.
The cruise line also revealed that bookings have increased by 70 percent since December, due in part to the lifting of travel restrictions in the UK.
Holland America Announces 2023 Alaska Schedule
Holland America has announced its 2023 Alaska season, which involves six ships and 16 cruisetours.
From April to September 2023, Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Volendam, and Westerdam will sail in Alaska, offering mostly seven-night cruises.
Ships will either sail between Vancouver and Whittier, or operate roundtrip from Vancouver and Seattle.
Cruisetours combine a cruise with a land tour, and range from nine to 18 days total.
STORY: Six Holland America Ships to Sail Alaska in 2023