Norwegian Cruise Line announced changes of the COVID-19 testing policy for guests boarding cruise ships from the U.S. and non-U.S. ports. Starting January 17, 2022, guests will be allowed to board with one negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test result. 

While in the past NCL have asked guests to test twice for Covid, once at home and a second time at the pier just before embarkation, now the company will require guests to test once at home. The new policy will ensure a streamlined check-in process with minimal person-to-person contact as well as fast boarding for all guests.

At the time of check-in, guests will be required proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test result administered by a verified third party at least two days before boarding for cruises starting from U.S. ports and three days prior to voyages departing from non-U.S. ports. 

“As our leading Sail Safe Health and Safety Program continues to evolve, we have made advancements to safely streamline the check-in process by facilitating minimal person-to-person contact and limited wait time at the terminal.

Beginning January 17, 2022, we will eliminate COVID-19 testing at the terminal and instead require guests to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test result at least two calendar days prior to boarding for cruises originating in a U.S. port and at least three calendar days prior for cruises departing from a non-U.S. port. The COVID-19 antigen or PCR test must be administered by a verified third party.”

If guests are unable to provide proof of a negative result at the time of embarkation, testing will be available at the terminal at their own expense for $99 per person.