By
Alex Smith |
Marella Cruises has outlined its health and safety plans for its return to cruising, with plans for Marella Explorer to set sail from Corfu, Greece on 2 October.
The cruise line has introduced its Marella Promise, focused on five commitments to ensure the safety of its guests. These include the introduction of extra measures to meet safety guidelines; 24 hour support; cruises that will sail only to destinations which will not require quarantine; cancellation of a cruise if there any significant changes to an itinerary or facilities; and full flexibility for passengers to change their bookings whether they’re affected by the pandemic or not.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming guests back onboard our ships again soon and we’re hopeful we’ll be able to start operations at the beginning of October,” said Chris Hackney, managing director of Marella Cruises. “Our teams have been working really hard to ensure we’re ready to give customers the best and safest experience when we can.”
Before boarding, passengers will be asked to take a health screening which includes a questionnaire and a temperature check. There will be fewer guests onboard to ensure adherence to social distancing measures, and they may be required to wear face masks at times. Luggage will be disinfected before being take to cabins, and one-way systems will be introduced around the ship. Cabins and public areas will be regularly deep cleaned and there will be an increase in hand sanitizer stations onboard.
Marella Cruises will operate a cashless service using customers onboard accounts and guests will be encouraged to use the onboard Navigate app to book excursions and restaurants. Passengers will be served by staff at buffet restaurants, while the entertainment programme will now be set up to adhere to social distancing guidelines. The pool will also operate with reduced capacity, with the sunbeds spaced farther apart.
All crew will be Covid-19 training and will wear protective equipment. They will be available at all times onboard, including during excursions onshore. Guest will also be able to cancel a booked excursion up to 24 hours before it departs.
“We understand some customers may feel a little uncertain about cruising and wonder what a cruise will be like post-Covid, which is why we have created the new Marella Promise,” said Hackney. “We will apply all the necessary health and safety measures to keep both customers and crew safe throughout the whole of their Marella Cruises journey. We will also ensure we are as flexible as possible if customers need to amend their cruises.”