On August 12th, 2022, P&O Cruises announced updated Covid-19 protocols and guidelines, with adjusted pre-travel testing requirements.
Starting on September 6, 2022 self-testing prior to travel will change from “mandatory” to “highly recommended” for vaccinated guests on the vast majority of holidays.
Only guests sailing on longer, more complex itineraries will be required to have an observed or in person antigen or PCR test with a fit to travel certificate prior to departure. These include a number of holidays of 16 nights or more and other specific cruises.
These new guidelines apply to all P&O Cruises itineraries sailing from Southampton and all other departure points with the exception of countries where government regulations and protocols may vary including Australia.
The vaccination policy for P&O Cruises guests hasn’t changed and their policy can be found here.
P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “These updated protocols reflect the current environment across the world and while certain key elements have relaxed, our commitment to protect the health and wellbeing of all guests, crew and the communities we visit remains an ongoing and vital consideration.
“They also ensure that the ease of cruising remains at the fore and that all guests of all ages can enjoy a holiday with unrivalled dining, relaxation and exploration options and unmatched service levels at extraordinary value for money.”
Exact requirements will be communicated to all guests and the latest updates will be posted on www.pocruises.com in early September.
All the updated guidelines and protocols are subject to local regulations of applicable homeports and destinations.
For more information about P&O Cruises health and safety guidelines, ships and itineraries, please visit them here.