Disney Cruise Line to require COVID-19 vaccination

The Disney Cruise Line is the latest in the cruise industry to now require passengers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 

Disney announced on Wednesday, Aug. 24 that they will "require that all passengers ages 12 and older be fully vaccinated in order for a ship to be allowed entry into any of its cruise ports, including private islands like Disney Castaway Cay," according to a press release from the company. 

The announcement came following the United States Food and Drug Administration officially announcing the approval of Pfizer as the first COVID-19 vaccine as well as nearly a week after the Bahamas updated an emergency COVID-19 declaration that prohibits cruises ships from entering a Bahamas port, including the many cruise lines’ private islands, unless eligible passengers are fully vaccinated. 

"As we welcome guests aboard our ships, the health and safety of our guests, cast members and crew members is a top priority," Disney Cruise Line said in the announcement. "Our focus remains on operating our ships in a responsible way that continues to create magic for all on board. We are resuming sailing in a gradual, phased approach that emphasizes multiple layers of health and safety measures, considering guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other medical experts."

The order will go into effect starting on Sept. 3 and will run through Nov. 1, as of now. 

However, the order violates a law pushed by Gov. Ron DeSantis that threatens to fine cruise lines for demanding proof of vaccination. The fine is $5,000 per instance for any time a business demands proof of vaccination.

Royal Caribbean also defied the order with a mirrored announcement on Tuesday, Aug. 23.