Large cruise ships that service the United States are still under the CDC’s “no sail order,” most recently extended to go through September 30th. However other countries have a much better handle on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus and with that, the first large cruise ship has set sail since the industry was shut down in March due to the pandemic.
Germany-based TUI Cruises has restarted operations and their Mein Shiff 2 (‘My Ship 2″) recently set sail on July 24th for a weekend cruise in the North Sea.
The cruise started from the port of Hamburg and is headed towards Norway. The ship won’t visit any ports but will sail past scenic sites for 3 nights before returning to Germany on Monday the 27th.
Finally at sea 🚢 – With 1200 passengers our "Mein Schiff 2" is leaving #Hamburg tonight. The first 3-nights-voyage across the North Sea to Norway consists exclusively of sea days. We are well prepared with highest #hygiene and #safety measures on board. pic.twitter.com/DCQLAChZq7
— TUI Group (@TUIGroup) July 24, 2020
Mein Shiff 2 usually holds upwards of 2,900 but occupancy was limited to 60% so social distancing could be observed. All passengers filled out a health questionnaire before boarding and had to get their temperature taken. While onboard, passengers and crew must stay 5 feet apart or wear protective masks. Furthermore, passengers are not allowed to serve themselves from the buffet.
Another German cruise company, AIDA, which is owned by Carnival (y’all, Carnival owns EVERYTHING), plans to start operations in August.
#stayhealthy #staysafe #washyourhands #wearamask
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This post first appeared on Your Mileage May Vary
