Simulation cruise gets passing grade

ROYAL CARIBBEAN is seeking to assure Barbadians that its ships are more than ready to welcome back cruise passengers after a hiatus of 22 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company hosted a simulation cruise on board Grandeur of The Seas for 330 passengers and 750 crew over the weekend, one in a series across the region to test their health and safety procedures before commencing actual cruising last Sunday night.

Royal Caribbean, together with local agents Foster and Ince Cruise Services, got a passing grade from those who experienced two days at sea, with guests even getting a glimpse of St Lucia in the process.

From Friday morning, only fully vaccinated guests – comprising travel agents, media personnel, hoteliers and those offering other tourism services, together with their specially invited guests – flooded the Barbados Cruise Terminal, where they underwent what was a lengthy process for some of those awaiting antigen tests, before boarding the 2 200-passenger vessel.

Once on board, guests were able to dance the night away, sing along to great tunes, get involved in headliner comedy and magical shows, games of bingo, trivia, or just kick back and enjoy themselves as cruise officials sought to ensure all was in place for cruising during the tourist winter season.

They also enjoyed sumptuous meals, games and experienced all the ship’s health procedures which proved to be intense but necessary.  (CH)

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