COVID-19 and RCL

[Nicolas LaBarre]

I wanted to preface what I'm writing by stating that I really do enjoy Royal Caribbean cruises and I'm currently a Platinum Crown and Anchor member. Also, I have had my 2020 vacation plans disrupted by COVID-19.

After Royal Caribbean cancelled sailings until mid September I have noticed some people on the internet saying that the CDC is not being fair toward the cruise companies. Some are stating that it's a double standard for theme parks to be allowed to open while cruise ships remain docked. I feel like this thinking is flawed. Just because something isn't fair doesn't mean that it isn't right. COVID-19 is surging right now in my home state of Florida as well as in Texas. Just coming out of our "stay at home" order has resulted in a surge of cases along with hospitalizations. This is majorly effecting health care workers and first responders. Starting cruises right now is dangerous because if a cruise ship gets an infection it can spread rapidly and treatment is questionable at sea. Consider how difficult a time the cruise companies are having repatriating crew. How much more difficult would it be repatriating or treating a foreign COVID-19 patient. Also, mask requirements would be difficult to enforce because of the stubborn nature of so many people. 

I think we need to get used to the idea that some things will change going forward with cruising. Ship fleet size will probably continue to shrink. The prices for sailings will probably increase. However, starting cruising to soon can permanently finish off Royal Caribbean. Finally, please everyone be careful COVID-19 isn't a joke. Just because some people are asymptomatic others can get very sick and obviously many have died. You can't really understand the seriousness of this whole pandemic until someone you know gets sick or even passes. When this all ends I'll catch you in the Windjammer!

[Ampurp85]

@Nicolas LaBarre  I have said that alot. Being in a rush will often set you back more. Not to mention that a cruise ships is all things in one, therefore the CDC has to be a bit stricter. I miss the water so much but I cannot with a clear conscience say we need to be on a cruise asap. RCCI has enough capital and bookings to make it,  just allow for things to run the course.