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CORONAVIRUS: Aussies Advised To "Reconsider Taking An Overseas Cruise"

The Australian Government is advising Aussie travellers, especially those with underlying health concerns, to reconsider their need to undertake an overseas cruise at this time due to the coronavirus.

The Australian Government is advising Aussie travellers, especially those with underlying health concerns, to reconsider their need to undertake an overseas cruise at this time due to the coronavirus.

In what is more bad news for the travel industry, Smartraveller has suggested that if in doubt about whether to go on a cruise, you should check in with your doctor for advice before travelling.

In recent weeks, a number of cruise ships have been quarantined in various ports around the world including the Diamond Princess in Yokahama and the Golden Princess off the coast of San Francisco.

Some countries are not allowing passengers to disembark, or denying entry to cruise ships altogether.

Diamond Princess

Diamond Princess. Image: Getty

In their update today, Smartraveller said that such disruptions to cruise ship itineraries due to COVID-19 can have significant consequences for Australian travellers.

“The situation is fluid, and you can expect further disruptions”.

Australian Smartraveller

“If, despite this advice, you choose to proceed with a cruise, please check with your cruise operator or travel agent for health advice,” Smartraveller went on to say.

“You should also read our travel advice for all your destinations and transit points, and subscribe for updates”.

“Finally, you can check the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) Australasia’s policies to prevent the spread of the virus, which all CLIA ocean member cruise lines are required to implement”.

Cruise lines will deny boarding to anyone who has visited or transited the most affected countries (China, including Hong Kong and Macau, Iran, South Korea and the most affected municipalities in Italy) in the 14 days before embarkation.

karryon-girl-on-cruise-ship

Image: Allen Taylor/Unsplash

Yesterday the US State Department issued a bulletin advising US citizens, particularly those with underlying health conditions, not to travel by cruise ship.

It advises that the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted an increased risk of infection of COVID-19 in a cruise ship environment.

Click here for more information on cruising from Smartraveller.