NCL Peace of Mind was introduced as a temporary policy amidst the coronavirus to give consumers the confidence to book future trips. For any reservation made prior to July 31, 2020, cruise cruises departing through November 30, 2020, guests can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of the cruise and receive a 100% future credit. This future cruise credit has to be applied to a new reservation within 1 year of the cancellation date, for a cruise departing before December 31, 2022. Learn more about Norwegian Cruise Line future cruise credits.
Now NCL’s Peace of Mind policy goes beyond flexible booking terms. They have also introduced new enhanced health & safety protocols.
Firstly, Norwegian Cruise Line has created a new onboard position for each ship, a public health officer. This person will be responsible for the oversight of all sanitation and outbreak-prevention initiatives and for monitoring the day-to-day cleanliness of all public areas and accommodations.
Prior to boarding, all passengers and crew will undergo enhanced health screenings. Staggered embarkation and online check-in will be implemented to allow for physical distancing. Passenger capacity will be reduced and limited guest counts in public areas. All onboard activities will be available but operated at a reduced capacity and slightly modified to ensure safe social distancing. Touchless temperature checks will identify potential health issues. The checks will occur returning to the ship from port of call, prior to all meals in dining venues and all activities in public venues, and before disembarkation.
The ships will be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected prior to every cruise with standards developed in partnership with the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program. Embarkation terminals will be sanitized continuously and, where possible, fogged before and after each embarkation and debarkation. All cabins and public areas will be cleaned, sanitized and disinfected at an increased frequency. Electrostatic sprayers will be used. A 24/7 prevention schedule will feature continuous disinfection of public areas and high-traffic places, such as elevators. Buffet and beverage stations will be full-service with staff serving guests. Frequent handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers will be encouraged. Medical-grade air filters that remove 99.95% of airborne pathogens and enhanced sanitation measures, increased medial teams and onboard medical centers are new features. Isolation accommodations will be available if the need arises.
The cruise line said the new protocols are just the start of a wave of new technologies and enhancements, so that you can explore the world with ultimate peace of mind.