Domestic Cruises: When will they restart?

Last updated on March 1st, 2023 at 09:46 am

The outbreak of COVID-19 left many cruise liners docked. Holidaymakers all over the world were left unable to travel – we faced months at home as we entered, emerged and reentered lockdown. However, as the roadmap out of lockdown unfolds – domestic cruises are due to set sail once again. It has been announced that cruises ships will be able to hit the high seas from May 17th. 

Read on to find out what safety measure will be in place and what benefits you should expect to be included with cruise specific cover. 

When are UK cruise lines are set to resume 

At A virtual All-Party Parliamentary Maritime and Ports Group (APPMPG) meeting, the Maritime Minister, Robert courts, announced that UK cruise lines will be able to restart domestic sailing from 17 May. This was later confirmed by a spokesperson for the Department of Transport.  

The President of P&O Cruises, Paul Ludlow, echoed the sentiment of many when he stated that he is “delighted” with the news. He also announced that the company will resume short UK cruises during the summer of 2021. 

What safety measure will be in place

Safety remains a priority for cruise liners as they set to restore the industry. Although restrictions may differ slightly depending on your cruise line, we’ve researched the industry’s leading companies to reveal what protocols you can expect to be in place once cruises resume: 

• Contactless payments 
• Temperature checks at embarkation
• Masks to be worn in public areas
• COVID-19 PCR tests available onboard
• Social distancing

For company-specific protocols, click here. 

What benefits are included with cruise specific cover

If you’re planning to enjoy a cruise this summer, you’ll need cruise specific cover.  This is because specific problems may arise on a cruise that wouldn’t occur on any other type of holiday.  Therefore, cruise specific travel insurance covers all things found on a standard policy plus additional benefits.  

AllClear cruise cover benefits include cover for:

• missed port departure

• cabin confinement

• itinerary change

• unused excursions

• cruise interruption

For smooth sailing and peace of mind, see how AllClear Cruise Travel Insurance can help you.

Published: 16 March 2021

Author notes. By Lydia Crispin, MA, AllClear Medical and Travel Content Creator. “It’s important that our customers have confidence when they travel. I enjoy writing the latest-travel insights and industry updates so that each and every person can make well informed travel decisions”
Edited by Letitia Smith, MSc, Content Manager at AllClear.