COVID-19: EU guidance for cruise ship operations

The objective of this guidance is to facilitate the re-start of operations of cruise ships in the EU, by
recommending minimum measures expected to be implemented by all those concerned, while maintaining general safety and security standards. This Guidance is meant for EU/EEA flagged ships engaged in international voyages and for ships calling at an EU/EEA port irrespective of flag.

Note: COVID-19 can be transmitted through close contact with infected persons and/or with surfaces or objects that have been contaminated by the secretions of infected persons. Any activity or situation that involves the gathering together of people poses a risk for the transmission of infection. Thus, all forms of transport that bring people into close proximity, particularly in closed/indoor spaces, pose an increased risk for transmission. Such forms of transport include buses, trains, airplanes and ships. Measures advised include to maintain appropriate physical distancing and avoidance of contact with contaminated surfaces, together with strict hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette. Hygiene will decrease the risk of transmission, but some risk will remain.