Cruise & Cruise Line

Carnival Clarifies Vaccination Mandate for July Cruises From Galveston

Image: Carnival Vista arrives at the Port of Galveston. (Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Image: Carnival Vista arrives at the Port of Galveston. (Photo via Carnival Cruise Line)
Theresa Norton
by Theresa Norton
Last updated: 4:31 PM ET, Wed June 9, 2021

Carnival Cruise Line has clarified the COVID-19 requirements and protocols for its upcoming cruises from Galveston on Carnival Vista and Carnival Breeze starting in July.

The line originally said it can only accommodate vaccinated travelers, but a few days later said cruises will accommodate a small number of unvaccinated passengers.

Carnival Vista will operate cruises to Mahogany Bay in Honduras, Belize and Cozumel, starting July 3. Carnival Breeze will restart operations on July 15, but the itinerary hasn't been finalized yet.

The guidelines were spelled out in a letter to booked passengers.

The July cruises will operate with at least 95 percent fully vaccinated guests, who will be required to present proof of vaccination at time of check-in. Vaccinated passengers will not be required to wear a facemask or maintain physical distancing while on board, the company said, but guests must follow local guidance at the destinations visited.

Carnival said CDC guidelines allow a small number of unvaccinated guests, including children under 12 who cannot be vaccinated, and exemptions as required by federal law.

"We plan to accommodate a small number of exemptions," Carnival said. "Such guests are being asked to put their names on our list (online submissions only) for follow-up communication. There will be testing, mask requirements and other restrictions for unvaccinated guests who are granted an exemption."


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

More From TravelPulse

Related Videos

Grow Your Travel Business With Certified Courses

Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Majestic Resorts Specialist ProgramDiscover all-inclusive luxury at Majestic Resorts in paradise.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Los Cabos Specialist ProgramSell the magic of Los Cabos: luxury, adventure, and endless sunshine.
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Allianz Specialist ProgramProtect every journey with Allianz Partners Travel Insurance.

Don't Miss These Travel Agent Events and Trainings

Upcoming Webinar
Sani/Ikos Group: Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Greece & SpainTuesday, July 28, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join us for an exclusive webinar introducing Sani/Ikos Group, a collection of luxury beachfront...
Upcoming Webinar
Asia Travel That SellsWednesday, July 29, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, and TravelPulse for an in depth webinar on Asia travel. Explore...
Upcoming Webinar
Close to Home, Big Opportunity: Selling Today's Domestic Travel TrendsThursday, July 30, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, and TravelPulse for a webinar exploring the growing demand for...
Upcoming Webinar
Sani/Ikos Group: Luxury Beachfront Resorts in Greece & SpainTuesday, July 28, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join us for an exclusive webinar introducing Sani/Ikos Group, a collection of luxury beachfront...
Upcoming Webinar
Asia Travel That SellsWednesday, July 29, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, and TravelPulse for an in depth webinar on Asia travel. Explore...
Upcoming Webinar
Close to Home, Big Opportunity: Selling Today's Domestic Travel TrendsThursday, July 30, 2026
2:00pm Eastern
Join Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, and TravelPulse for a webinar exploring the growing demand for...