Cruising returns to Alaska for first time since 2019

Royal Caribbean International has become the first cruise line to sail in Alaska since September 2019.

Following a successful simulated voyage and a Conditional Sailing Certificate from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Serenade of the Seas embarked on the first of a series of seven-night Alaska cruises from Seattle, Washington. The ship will take guests to Juneau, Sitka, Ketchikan and Icy Strait Point, as well as Endicott Arm fjord and Dawes Glacier.

In accordance with Royal Caribbean’s health and safety policy, which requires all crew members and guests who are eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine to be fully inoculated before boarding its ships, 97 per cent of the people onboard Serenade of the Seas are fully vaccinated. Those not eligible for vaccines were tested and must follow other health and safety protocols, which are outlined here. The cruise line is also following enhanced health and safety protocols.

"Cruising in Alaska is finally back, and we are excited to be the first to return. Alaska is one of the most popular destinations among our guests, especially families with young kids – children who are ineligible for the vaccine today," said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. "We are grateful for the support of our partners, Senators Lisa Murkowski and Dan Sullivan, and other government and health authorities. This is a return that is significantly felt by many, including those whose communities rely on cruise tourism."

Serenade of the Seas is the second Royal Caribbean ship to resume cruising in the USA, following Freedom of the Seas, which began sailing from Miami, Florida on 4 July. By the end of August, 13 of the brand’s vessels are expected to restart operations, including Ovation of the Seas, which will begin sailing seven-night Alaska itineraries from Seattle to Skagway, Sitka and Juneau through the Inside Passage.