Brazil cruise season is once again facing an extension of the voluntary cruise pause after CLIA Brazil moved the date of return to cruise activities from February 4, to February 18.

“The decision aims to analyze the evolution of the country's epidemiological situation and also to continue the necessary discussions with the competent national, state and municipal authorities for the resumption of the season,” the CLIA said in a statement.

Cruise Lines International Association members argued that the cruise sector is the only segment that requires health protocols such as vaccination and testing before passengers and crew embark. In Brazil, the protocols require that all passengers boarding the ships need to be fully vaccinated, present negative tests before boarding, continuous testing on board, use of masks, social distancing and less occupancy of ships, among other protocols.

CLIA said that it is necessary all states cruise ships are visiting agree with the return to operations, in order to meet the health requirement and procedures of the strict security protocols established by the National Health Agency ANVISA.

The Brazil cruise season 2021/21 started in November, and there are currently five cruise ships waiting to resume cruises once again. The season came to a halt in early January due to the rapid rise of COVID cases aboard the ships caused by the Omicron variant. The five ships that are part of the Brazilian season, MSC Seaside, MSC Precious, MSC Splendida, Costa Diadema and Costa Fascinosa, are currently anchored off the coast of Santos, Brazil.