SS Future Re-Open Plan: Timing, Testing Needs??!!

[boccenana]

We are in that elder bracket also and figure we have only two years  to properly enjoy the cruise excursions.

 

I appreciate your suggestions pertaining to other cruise lines.

SS was our very first cruise 11 years ago.. Yup, we started at the top.

 

We thought that was the cruise of a lifetime. It was glorious. 

We decided then and there,  that would be the only way to cruise if we ever did it again.

 

I really enjoy long cruises.

Our second was in 2018, we thought again it was a cruise of a lifetime. And it was.

 

Suddenly we had no one to leave our sheckles to and our little fur baby Agatha passed so that was it. Find a Cruise and "book it!"

 

We had to canceled our Alaska this summer and our 48 day Athens to Athens to Singapore was just cancelled. All Silversea cruises.

 

We don’t have any bennies....oh the money we spend for free laundry 😆.

 

When deciding cash or cruise credit, I checked out all the small

ships on other lines and still opted for Silver Sea.

 

We have one priority the ship must have a fine cigar lounge.

That left only a few choices. 

Silverseas Connoisseurs Lounges fits the bill.

But I digress.🤭

 

Thank you for your thoughts on the covid issues, I too feel for the hell people have been put through all over the world these last 18 months. Frustrations are building more each day.

I am thrilled to know that everyone out there isn't in panic mode.

Hope to meet you as we gaze out during a Sailaway some day.

 

We will have a great time on our Lima to Fort Lauderdale cruise.

Machu Picchu or bust!!! 16 days, Christmas,  New Years and our 46th Anniversary.  Whoopee 🥳

 

 

 

[TLCOhio]

On 9/25/2021 at 5:18 PM, Catlover54 said:

DH and I were ready to press "yes" to our suite offer for SS to Antarctica this season ( already moved from Argentina to Chile) until we saw the actual draft contract. It  gives SS broad-based authority to change the date, time, place of embarkation and disembarkation, among other open-ended things beyond quarantine, such as potential for even more restrictive masking policies than now, e.g.,  even if we would be outside and even if socially distanced, which for DH is a non-starter and for me is close to it. Doc Ruth, we will meanwhile stick with shorter, cheaper, closer cruises, where if policies drastically change we could just bail mid-cruise, with a smaller overall loss. One view is that as with " temporary" airline rules that became permanent, rules like masking when flying will also become permanent.  The same could be for cruising.

 

Appreciate ALL of the various postings, including by FauxNom, Catlover54, Doc Ruth, Lois, Silver Spectre, Sweetpea711423,  etc.  Keeping it calm, civil, focused on cruising, etc., works great.  We are all frustrated and at time confused as the rules and "science" keeps changing and evolving as we learn and know more.  The "end" is in sight, but we do not know exactly when, where and how.  

 

I would like to sail in early 2022 to Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands.  BUT, my wife, a RN with an immune issue, believes things are are not settled enough for the long air flights, being in distant countries with varied standards and sailing on a confined ship with hundreds of others would be the right and best timing.  Will keep waiting and hoping for the better situation!!

 

From the Associated Press/AP newswire and the Arizona Republic this past weekend, they had this headline: “ 'We haven't recovered yet': Short-term outlook remains grim for cruise industry” .  This tied in with Carnival doing their quarterly Wall Street review with the stock analysts.  

 

Here are some of the story highlights that reflect general industry trends: “Carnival Corp. lost $2.8 billion in the third quarter, but shares rose Friday after the cruise line operator said bookings for the second half of next year are running ahead of 2019 levels.  Cruising investors are looking for any glimmer of hope for an industry that has been battered by the pandemic.  Still, the short-term outlook remains grim. Carnival said the rise in U.S. COVID-19 cases from the delta variant hurt sales this summer. Rivals Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line saw the same thing. Carnival said the average ship was only 59% full in August, but that was an improvement from 39% in June, and voyages generated enough revenue to cover cash costs.  'We reported a significant loss, so we haven’t recovered yet, obviously, but as we look ahead we see brighter days,' CEO Arnold Donald said in an interview. 'If things continue to trend the way they are (with COVID-19 cases), we should see positive cash flow as we get our fleet sailing broadly again.'  While there were fewer passengers, they spent 20% more on board than before the pandemic, the company said.  Eight of Carnival’s nine cruise lines including Carnival, Princess and Holland America have resumed sailing with reduced schedules. The company said it expects more than half of its fleet to be operating by the end of October and the full fleet by next summer.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/cruises/2021/09/25/short-term-outlook-remains-grim-cruise-industry-due-covid-spike/5865065001/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Dubrovnik!  Nice visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this super scenic and historic location. Over 48,206 views.    

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227

Edited September 27, 2021 by TLCOhio

[TLCOhio]

From Travel+Leisure and Yahoo News last week, they had this headline: “Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Talks COVID-19 Protocol, Family Travel, and the Future of Cruising” with these highlights: “Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Talks COVID-19 Protocol, Family Travel, and the Future of Cruising Norwegian Cruise Line's president expects things to feel normal again by the second or third quarter of next year — but still has a positive outlook for the future of cruising.  'Every day, every week should be a little better than the week before,' Harry Sommer, the president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line, said in an interview with Cruise Critic ahead of the launch of the Norwegian Breakaway, the first major cruise ship to sail from New York City since the pandemic.  Sommer said there have been highs and lows as Norwegian saw a decrease in bookings as the number of COVID-19 cases increased, but saw an increase in bookings after the U.S. announced it would lift travel restrictions on vaccinated foreign visitors in November.”

 

Here is more as to this top executive's views the cruising future and timing: " 'We're in no rush. Our main goal now is to get our ships up and running,' he said. 'We're happy to have reduced occupancies so that we can provide an excellent product, with social distance, no crowding, no lines anywhere.  Norwegian first started sailing in Europe in July with trips out of Athens. Now, the company is sailing from Miami, Seattle, and New York in the United States, having won a court battle defending its vaccination policy, one of the strictest in the industry.  Looking ahead, Sommer said he's hopeful younger children will be able to get vaccinated soon, paving the way for family cruises over the holidays."

 

Reactions?  Many on Silversea do not care about younger children being able to sail.  Clearly this re-start is taking more time and patience.  His comments seem to reflect that need to take the required time before "normal" can be happening and here.  .  

 

Full story at:

https://www.yahoo.com/news/norwegian-cruise-line-ceo-talks-164146526.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Athens & Greece: Many visuals, details from two visits in a city with great history, culture and architecture.  Now at 41,380 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1101008

[TLCOhio]

While most cruise line have been requiring passengers and staff to be vaccinated, now there are questions as to which specific vaccines are effective and good enough for use and acceptance.

.  

From the Washington Post this past week, they had this headline: “New U.S. travel rules close door on those fully vaccinated with Russia’s Sputnik V” with these highlights: “The United States announced last week that it would soon open its doors to foreign travelers vaccinated against the coronavirus, loosening restrictions for broad swaths of global visitors for the first time since the pandemic began.   But the new rules, set to take effect in November, appear to also shut out many people who consider themselves to be fully immunized — including millions who have received two doses of Russia’s Sputnik V vaccine.
Hundreds of thousands of Russians could be directly affected. Despite frosty diplomatic relations and limited demand for international travel, roughly 300,000 Russians visited the United States in 2019.   More broadly, the U.S. plan is another blow for the manufacturers of Sputnik V, which Moscow has proudly proclaimed as the first coronavirus vaccine to be registered for use. Though the vaccine was intended to be a powerful tool of pandemic diplomacy, its limited acceptance abroad and slow rates of delivery have left it behind not only Western vaccines but also those made by Chinese manufacturers.  The new U.S. plan requires that most noncitizens seeking entry to the United States are vaccinated with shots approved for emergency use either by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the World Health Organization.  The new U.S. rules will not only affect Russians. According to data from the Global Health Innovation Center at Duke University, some 448 million Sputnik V doses have been purchased worldwide, with many going to low-income nations.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2021/09/27/us-travellers-sputnik-russia/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast on the Silver Spirit.  Now at 31,947 views.  Many interesting pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

[TLCOhio]

Are higher-end cruise ships with vaccine requirements having any Covid infection challenges?

 

From the New York Post yesterday, they had this headline: “Five passengers on first post-COVID cruise from NYC test positive” with these highlights: “At least five passengers on the first cruise out of New York City since the COVID-19 pandemic began have tested positive for the virus.  The passengers were aboard the Crystal Symphony, en route to Bermuda, when their PCR tests came back positive, according to Crystal Cruises.   The COVID-positive were transferred to quarantine hotels on Bermuda. The passengers and ship were then subjected to quarantine and retesting on the ship.   The 781-foot vessel can carry 848 passengers, according to the company, which wouldn’t say how many were aboard.   All guests were required to be vaccinated to board the cruise.  They departed Sept. 24 from Manhattan’s Pier 88. The ship returned to New York on Friday — before turning around for another trip to Bermuda’s Royal Naval Dockyard.”

 

We did our second cruise on the Crystal Symphony in July 2008, exploring the Baltics and Russia.  Great experience!!  But, five passengers being pulled off for quarantine in Bermuda would not be fun or desired.  Right or wrong?  Wish that Crystal had been more honest by revealing the net number of passengers on this first cruise from New York City.  Then, you can judge the impact of this sailing infection.  

 

Full story at:

https://nypost.com/2021/10/02/five-passengers-on-first-post-covid-cruise-from-nyc-test-positive/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Panama Canal? Early 2017, Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco adventure through Panama Canal.  Our first stops in Colombia, Central America and Mexico, plus added time in the great Golden Gate City. Now at 30,808 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2465580

[TLCOhio]

What kind of travel and  cruise adventures do we desire for the future?  For us, just "Floating on a Boat" is not good enough.  We want more than just being pampered on the ship.  Unique destinations are vital for us on our wish list.  Your priorities? 

 

From super experienced travel writer Gene Sloan and MSN News three days ago, they had this headline: “Luxury cruise lines eye customers who want to travel in a ‘more purposeful way’ ” with these highlights: “Get ready for even more luxury cruises that are as much about getting access to unique and transformational experiences as they are about pampering.  So said several of the luxury cruise world’s leading executives Wednesday at Seatrade Cruise Global, the cruise industry’s annual meetup in Miami.  'The idea behind luxury is changing where people want to travel far and away, but they want to sculpt themselves into the environment, whether it’s in the classical world or whether it’s in the remotest parts of the world,' Navin Sawhney, the CEO for the Americas at small-ship specialist Ponant, said during a panel discussion on luxury cruising at the event.  'They want to do that in a way that is traveling with greater intent, and ultimately it’s so they can come back with a change, with a transformation without transforming where they visited,' Sawhney added.   Sawhney said one of the most important aspects of how luxury travel was changing was that 'people want to travel in a more purposeful way … they want to have the deeper connection with the destinations that they visit.' ”

 

Much like with Silversea's wide range of unique options and ports, this background was shared: "A specialist in cruises on small, upscale 'expedition' ships that are designed to travel to remote and hard-to-reach parts of the world such as Antarctica and the Arctic, Ponant has been expanding fast in recent years to meet the growing demand for such trips.  As Sawhney noted, the market for cruises on such vessels and small ships in general has been growing significantly for more than a decade.  Chris Austin, chief sales officer for the US at Explora Journeys said the luxury customer increasingly is looking for a 'journey' when they cruise that is 'far more than just a mode of transportation. It’s a journey of exploration. It’s a journey of discovery. It’s a journey of their own personal mind, and [it’s] actually collecting those wonderful experiences, getting to know themselves even more, getting to know those around them.'  Luxury travelers want to see destinations 'slower and deeper' than in the past, Austin added."

 

Full story at:

https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/tips/luxury-cruise-lines-eye-customers-who-want-to-travel-in-a-more-purposeful-way/ar-AAOY5oE?ocid=BingNewsSearch

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 20,131 views.  Connect at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

[rkacruiser]

3 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

Chris Austin, chief sales officer for the US at Explora Journeys said the luxury customer increasingly is looking for a 'journey' when they cruise that is 'far more than just a mode of transportation. It’s a journey of exploration. It’s a journey of discovery. It’s a journey of their own personal mind, and [it’s] actually collecting those wonderful experiences, getting to know themselves even more, getting to know those around them.'  Luxury travelers want to see destinations 'slower and deeper' than in the past, Austin added."

 

I think that is an accurate statement.  It applies not just to those who cruise on luxury cruise lines.  Many, if not all, guests who sail on long and world cruises on a HAL ship pack the venue when guest lecturers present interesting, informative, and educational programs.  Shore excursions to cultural sites and those that provide unique experiences often sell out.  

 

Even for those who are sailing on a cruise on a mainstream cruise line, such as to the Panama Canal, sometimes do it because they are curious to learn about the Canal and see for themselves the Canal and how it works.  For those who are true first time cruisers, isn't it possible that the cruise is a "journey of discovery" and "collecting wonderful experiences" for them?  

 

Such "discoveries" and "wonderful experiences" are not just for those who cruise on luxury cruise lines.  

[CruiserFromMaine]

23 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

Wish that Crystal had been more honest by revealing the net number of passengers on this first cruise from New York City.  Then, you can judge the impact of this sailing infection.  

There is quite a “live from” thread on the Crystal board about this cruise. Reports there vary, but there were around 200 passengers on board. 
 

in addition to the 5 positive-tested pax, about 25 close contacts were also off-loaded for a night even though they tested negative; then they were re-tested and allowed back on. Except one close contact who tested positive. This was a Bermuda requirement, not Crystal’s. But the resulting confusion and concern of negative close contacts was problematic. 
 

I said months ago, the cruising restart will be messy, and this experience in Bermuda is a prime example. Cruise lines and passengers need to be flexible and try to understand various changing requirements, even if they appear to be nonsensical. 
 

In spite of all that, we have four cruises booked between now and May. 

[TLCOhio]

5 hours ago, CruiserFromMaine said:

There is quite a “live from” thread on the Crystal board about this cruise. Reports there vary, but there were around 200 passengers on board. 

In spite of all that, we have four cruises booked between now and May. 

 

Great comments and follow-ups from rkacruiser in Ohio and our Maine friend.  Good luck with those four cruise between now and May.  

 

From a writer at the Miami Herald and in a Maine newspaper this morning, they had this headline: “Cruises are back, but they may not see pre-pandemic passenger numbers until 2023" with this sub-headline: "The industry saw 28.5 million passengers worldwide in 2018 and 29.7 million in 2019, but dropped off to just 5.8 million in 2020, an 81% decrease.”

 

Here are some of the story highlights: “The cruise industry may not return to prepandemic passenger numbers until 2023, according to an industry consultant speaking at Seatrade — the world’s largest business-to-business cruise conference which took place in Miami Beach last week.  'It’s all very encouraging, but I don’t really see until next year that we’ll get significant increases (in passengers),' said David Selby, the owner of Travelyields Ltd., a consulting firm that specializes in cruises, speaking at the conference via video call from the UK. 'I don’t see us getting back to 2019 levels until 2023, or possibly longer,' he said, adding that, 'only time will tell.'  'All depends on if, heaven forbid, there are new variants,' he warned.  The industry saw 28.5 million passengers worldwide in 2018 and 29.7 million in 2019, but dropped off to just 5.8 million in 2020, an 81% decrease. Before the pandemic, Selby’s Travelyields had predicted 32 million global cruise passengers in 2020, a 6.7% increase.   Miami’s cruise operators suspended voyages on March 13, 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic was rapidly spreading throughout the world. The industry has slowly restarted at reduced capacity and with COVID-19 mitigation protocols.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.pressherald.com/2021/10/04/cruises-are-back-but-they-may-not-see-prepandemic-passenger-numbers-until-2023/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Summer 2019 Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska on Silver Muse, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Many visuals and details from our first in these scenic areas!  Live/blog: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

[rkacruiser]

3 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

The industry has slowly restarted at reduced capacity

 

Not sure that I have said this on this Message Board, but I have on others.  The cruise industry is going to need to take "baby steps" to regain what they once experienced in passenger confidence and bookings.  That is what is now happening.

 

My cardiologist and his wife just returned from an Alaskan cruise.  This was their first.  They had a good trip; they loved what they saw of Alaska and its wildlife.  The ship experience itself was a "it was ok".  They sailed for the new experience for them.  

[Catlover54]

Merck has a promising new oral early Covid treatment under rapid development ( WSJ and other pay newspapers also had articles, for other perspectives)

 

https://www.popsci.com/health/merck-covid-pill-molnupiravir/

 

Let's hope this pans out, and risk/benefit is such that the FDA approves it and it can become part of outpatient and cruise ship infirmary pharmacies, to help slow the pandemic, and to deal with early cases.

 

 

[TLCOhio]

On 10/4/2021 at 8:26 PM, rkacruiser said:

The cruise industry is going to need to take "baby steps" to regain what they once experienced in passenger confidence and bookings.  That is what is now happening.   My cardiologist and his wife just returned from an Alaskan cruise.  This was their first.  They had a good trip; they loved what they saw of Alaska and its wildlife.  The ship experience itself was a "it was ok".  They sailed for the new experience for them.  

 

Appreciate the very good comments and follow-ups from Catlover54 and our Ohio-based rkacruiser.  It is good to hear of the various medical advances that are . . . slowly . . . digging us out of this current situation.

 

From CNBC cable business news Tuesday, they had this headline: “Norwegian Cruise Line set to launch full fleet by April for first time since pandemic no-sail orders, CEO says” with these highlights: “Norwegian Cruise Lines currently has eight ships in service across its three brands.  The cruise line’s full fleet of 28 ships will resume service by April 1, CEO Frank Del Rio said Tuesday.  A majority, 75%, of the company’s vessels will return to regular operations by the end of the year, he said.  'If anything, the world is opening up, more people are getting vaccinated,' Del Rio told CNBC. 'Pent-up demand continues to be very, very strong for the sailings we’ve operated thus far.'  Despite the cruise line’s stringent vaccine protocols, Del Rio said Covid booster shots are not yet required for passengers and employees. But he said Norwegian could either mandate boosters if the pandemic worsens or adjust the company’s existing vaccine guidelines as the pandemic wanes and more people immunize against the virus.”

 

Great little point/question by Del Rio about booster shots.  When will that be required, especially as so many around the world have not even had their first shots.  Lots of serious issues and questions still be answered before we are back to "normal"??!!

 

Full story at:

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/10/05/norwegian-cruise-line-set-to-launch-full-fleet-by-april-ceo-says.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 253,947 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

[rkacruiser]

1 hour ago, TLCOhio said:

Lots of serious issues and questions still be answered before we are back to "normal"??!!

 

 

"The woods are lovely dark and deep.  But, I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep."   Robert Frost

[TLCOhio]

On 10/8/2021 at 7:01 PM, rkacruiser said:

"The woods are lovely dark and deep.  But, I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep."   Robert Frost

 

Appreciate this cute, above quote and positive follow-up from our Ohio neighbor.  YES, the future is a significant question that will yield an interesting/challenging path forward for the cruise lines.  How will that future appear and be?

 

From the Wall Street Journal late last week, they had this headline: “Trio Of Sustainable Power Sources To Drive Royal Caribbean Group's Next Class Of Ships Into The Future” with these highlights: “The cruise industry's first hybrid powered ship is set to debut summer 2023 as part of Royal Caribbean Group's  ultra-luxury brand Silversea Cruises. The new class of ships, known as 'Project Evolution,' will operate using a trio of power sources including a fuel cell system, battery technology and dual fuel engines using liquefied natural gas (LNG) as the main fuel. This hybrid solution, using fuel cell technology, allows the ship to be free of local emissions while at port -- another industry first. The new hybrid technology not only helps in port, but also allows Project Evolution to achieve a 40% overall reduction in its greenhouse gas emissions per double occupancy when compared to the brand's previous class of ships.  To learn more about Royal Caribbean Group's sustainability efforts, visit https://sustainability.rclcorporate.com/.”

 

Interesting announcement by the Silversea corporate ownership.  Nice to know that Silversea will be the first with this advanced technology.  Reactions and comments?  

 

Full press release at:

https://www.wsj.com/articles/trio-of-sustainable-power-sources-to-drive-royal-caribbean-group-s-next-class-of-ships-into-the-future-01634900746?tesla=y

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 242,831 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

Edited October 25, 2021 by TLCOhio

[cruiseej]

3 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

Reactions and comments?

 

Gee, I hope it works. 😉 

 

But seriously: three power systems is more complex than one to run and maintain. And it requires supplies of liquid hydrogen or compressed hydrogen ( I don't think they identified which type they were using) to power the fuel cells, plus liquid natural gas for the engines, which ups the game for ports where such a ship can refuel. This isn't entirely new technology, but new designs using technologies in new ways can have growing pains. (Remember Boeing's problems with batteries overheating and in one case catching fire in its early 787 Dreamliner planes, before design changes resolved the issues?)

 

Long-term, this sounds like a good development and direction to reduce pollution from cruise ships, but there are sometimes growing pains.

[rkacruiser]

On 10/25/2021 at 3:10 PM, cruiseej said:

(Remember Boeing's problems with batteries overheating and in one case catching fire in its early 787 Dreamliner planes, before design changes resolved the issues?)

 

And, Boeing continues to have issues with the 787 although not with power issues.  

[TLCOhio]

On 10/25/2021 at 3:10 PM, cruiseej said:

Gee, I hope it works. 😉   But seriously: three power systems is more complex than one to run and maintain. And it requires supplies of liquid hydrogen or compressed hydrogen ( I don't think they identified which type they were using) to power the fuel cells, plus liquid natural gas for the engines, which ups the game for ports where such a ship can refuel. This isn't entirely new technology, but new designs using technologies in new ways can have growing pains.   Long-term, this sounds like a good development and direction to reduce pollution from cruise ships, but there are sometimes growing pains.

 

Great above follow-ups from our neighbors in Ohio and Pennsylvania.  Agree that new technology can be interesting, but there are always questions as to . . . how it will really works and how much more does it cost?? 

 

From Forbes Magazine this past week, they had this headline: “CDC: Cruise Ship Covid Rules Will Soon Become Voluntary” with these highlights: “This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sent out some strong signals that it has become safer to take a cruise, even though the Covid-19 pandemic is not over yet.  First, the agency downgraded its travel health notice for cruise ships from Level 4, which means 'very high level of Covid-19' to Level 3, which signifies 'high level of Covid-19.'  What difference does one word make? A lot. Level 4 effectively lands a destination or type of travel on the U.S. 'Do Not Travel' list, while Level 3 means “make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel,” according to the CDC website, which continues to warn that 'the virus that causes Covid-19 spreads easily between people in close quarters aboard ships, and the chance of getting Covid-19 on cruise ships is high.'  And yesterday the CDC extended the industry’s Conditional Sailing Order (CSO), due to expire on November 1, through January 15, 2022. After that date, the agency says it will 'transition to a voluntary program' in coordination with cruise lines.  The CSO took effect in October 2020, replacing the Covid-19 cruising ban and laying out the steps cruise operators had to take to sail with passengers out of U.S. ports. In April, the agency announced that ships could only sail if at least 95% of passengers were vaccinated or, alternatively, if the ships performed simulated sailings to demonstrate safety procedures.”

 

Is this good, improving, forward progress?

 

Full story at:

https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2021/10/26/cdc-cruise-ship-covid-voluntary-rules/?sh=6f5d278240e0

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 234,273 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

[rkacruiser]

5 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

 And yesterday the CDC extended the industry’s Conditional Sailing Order (CSO), due to expire on November 1, through January 15, 2022. After that date, the agency says it will 'transition to a voluntary program' in coordination with cruise lines.

 

And, the goal posts move again.  This news is a few more millimeters to whatever the new "normality" is going to be.  

[TLCOhio]

On 11/1/2021 at 5:07 PM, rkacruiser said:

And, the goal posts move again.  This news is a few more millimeters to whatever the new "normality" is going to be.  

 

YES!!  Agree with our SW Ohio neighbor that "things" are always moving and changing. At times the "goal posts" get moved backr?  Or, closer??  Great comment and follow-up!!

 

Today is an example?  From the Seatrade publication this morning, they had this headline: “Jason Liberty to succeed Richard Fain as Royal Caribbean CEO” with these highlights: “Richard Fain, whose innovations during more than 33 years as CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group helped shape the modern cruise industry, has decided to step down as CEO on Jan. 3.  CFO Jason Liberty will succeed him as CEO and join the board, which Fain will continue to chair.  The third-longest serving CEO among current S&P 500 leaders, Fain's storied career is defined by the innovations he championed involving every aspect of cruising — from revolutionary ship design to major sustainability efforts to the technologies and ground-breaking features that enriched the on-board experience for millions of passengers.  Liberty joined the Royal Caribbean Group in 2005 and served in several financial, strategic and operational roles before becoming CFO in 2013. His operational duties have expanded over the years and gone well beyond the responsibilities normally associated with a CFO.”

 

Having listened in during the past two years to the quarterly Wall Street analysts reports and Q/A sessions with both Fain and the CFO, I kind of been able to know a decent amount about both of them.  They are very, very different personalities and styles.  Did not realize that Fain had been in charge that long.  Interesting timing by Fain to be leaving now.  According to web sources, Fain is age 72, but he seemed to me to be much younger  as I listened to him, sensed his energy, style and vigor, etc.   

 

Things are getting better for the cruise industry, but it will take much more time to get back to a real “normal” AND dig out of their current, deep financial hole.  Jason Liberty is more of a “bean-counter” finance guy.  Yes, he is very smart and savvy, but does he really understand customers and their needs, motivations, etc.????

 

Added reactions, background and thoughts?  Am I fair or unfair as to how I characterize these two business leaders and the questions for the future?

 

Full story at: 

https://www.seatrade-cruise.com/people-opinions/jason-liberty-succeed-richard-fain-royal-caribbean-ceo

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 92,761 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

 

[boccenana]

12 minutes ago, TLCOhio said:

 

YES!!  Agree with our SW Ohio neighbor that "things" are always moving and changing. At times the "goal posts" get moved backr?  Or, closer??  Great comment and follow-up!!

 

Today is an example?  From the Seatrade publication this morning, they had this headline: “Jason Liberty to succeed Richard Fain as Royal Caribbean CEO” with these highlights: “Richard Fain, whose innovations during more than 33 years as CEO of the Royal Caribbean Group helped shape the modern cruise industry, has decided to step down as CEO on Jan. 3.  CFO Jason Liberty will succeed him as CEO and join the board, which Fain will continue to chair.  The third-longest serving CEO among current S&P 500 leaders, Fain's storied career is defined by the innovations he championed involving every aspect of cruising — from revolutionary ship design to major sustainability efforts to the technologies and ground-breaking features that enriched the on-board experience for millions of passengers.  Liberty joined the Royal Caribbean Group in 2005 and served in several financial, strategic and operational roles before becoming CFO in 2013. His operational duties have expanded over the years and gone well beyond the responsibilities normally associated with a CFO.”

 

Having listened in during the past two years to the quarterly Wall Street analysts reports and Q/A sessions with both Fain and the CFO, I kind of been able to know a decent amount about both of them.  They are very, very different personalities and styles.  Did not realize that Fain had been in charge that long.  Interesting timing by Fain to be leaving now.  According to web sources, Fain is age 72, but he seemed to me to be much younger  as I listened to him, sensed his energy, style and vigor, etc.   

 

Things are getting better for the cruise industry, but it will take much more time to get back to a real “normal” AND dig out of their current, deep financial hole.  Jason Liberty is more of a “bean-counter” finance guy.  Yes, he is very smart and savvy, but does he really understand customers and their needs, motivations, etc.????

 

Added reactions, background and thoughts?  Am I fair or unfair as to how I characterize these two business leaders and the questions for the future?

 

Full story at: 

https://www.seatrade-cruise.com/people-opinions/jason-liberty-succeed-richard-fain-royal-caribbean-ceo

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 92,761 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

 

Thanks for this information Terry,

 

Fair or unfair, we have the same apprehensions. I pray for naught.

 

I sure hope we didn't make a mistake booking in November of 2022 Athens to Dubai.

 

When Royal Caribbean took over, I had the feeling that Silversea passengers were not quite as special as they were on our first cruise on the Cloud in 2010.

 

This doesn't include the ships, the butlers, the crew, the staff, the food, the Silver Note, the best cigar lounge on the high seas and of course the fun of meeting old friends and new. It was the little niceties that made it extra special.

 

Our last one on the Muse to Australia two years ago was fabulous, but they had already cut back on the special things like the directory of passengers, beautiful voyage books, tote bags,  folios, luggage tags and other goodies that made Silversea so special.

 

I understand that Covid caused so much damage to the industry, but I am still raving and recommending Silversea to all our friends.

Now after reading your posted article, I am having second thoughts.

 

I was so sad when Silversea was sold out to Royal Caribbean but was hoping they would not only keep up the high bar that was set by Silversea but even improve.

 

This has to be one of the toughest industries to not only run but to run well.

 

With a new CEO we shall wait and see what shakes out.

 

Elaine😎

 

 

I 

[Silver Spectre]

8 minutes ago, boccenana said:

 

Our last one on the Muse to Australia two years ago was fabulous, but they had already cut back on the special things like the directory of passengers, beautiful voyage books, tote bags,  folios, luggage tags and other goodies that made Silversea so special.

 

 

I think you will find that most of these changes took place well before Royal Caribbean took over. The passenger directory went about 7 or 8 years ago, the voyage books and luggage tags are currently suspended due to Covid. In 17 years with Silversea we have never seen a tote bag, we do have a couple of backpacks though. The caviar on demand that disappeared a few years back was re-instated as soon as RC took over. IMHO we haven't seen anything yet with a negative impact.

[TLCOhio]

3 hours ago, Silver Spectre said:

I think you will find that most of these changes took place well before Royal Caribbean took over. The passenger directory went about 7 or 8 years ago, the voyage books and luggage tags are currently suspended due to Covid. In 17 years with Silversea we have never seen a tote bag, we do have a couple of backpacks though. The caviar on demand that disappeared a few years back was re-instated as soon as RC took over. IMHO we haven't seen anything yet with a negative impact.

 

Appreciate these good comments, opinions and follow-ups from Silver Spectre and boccenana.  From our first cruise in July 2010 on the Silver Cloud to the summer of 2009 on the Silver Muse to Alaska, we have seen some changes.  But, overall, we have been very happy as "change is not always bad.  Change can mean improvements and/or focusing more on the higher priority customer needs/interests.   Itineraries are our top priority and Silversea is excellent for creativity and unique offerings in that category  The staffs been very good and highly responsive.  For us, worrying about whether we get caviar or not, is not our major priority or need.  The newer ships such as the Muse are very nice and highly impressive.  

 

From USA Today and Yahoo News today, this morning, they had this headline: “ 'I felt safer on the cruise than Walmart': COVID protocols on cruises prove effective, initial CDC data shows” with these highlights: “The coronavirus continues to be present on cruise ships sailing in U.S. waters, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention obtained by USA TODAY shows. But travelers are feeling more secure with the  protocols in place.  In the two-month period spanning from when the first cruise sailed with paying passengers on June 26 through Aug. 26, there were 452 confirmed cases of coronavirus on cruise ships reported by cruise lines to the health agency.  The cases reported were spread among crew and passengers who tested positive via viral testing on ships.  'We've never said that cruising will be a zero-risk activity,' Capt. Aimee Treffiletti, who leads the CDC's maritime unit, told USA TODAY in late October. "I think we've all always expected that cases would be identified.' ' 'Unlike other forms of travel, a cruise ship is more like congregate residential setting where thousands of travelers (passengers and crew) are living for multiple days (or months for crew) on the same ship: eating, sleeping, and participating in activities together in one location. COVID-19, like other illnesses, can spread quickly in group settings like cruise ships,'  Caitlin Shockey, spokesperson for the CDC, added in an email to USA TODAY.  The protocol in place on ships to mitigate COVID-19 'absolutely has' worked to make cruise ships safer as the world faces a global pandemic, Treffiletti said.  While there still remains some risk of transmission of COVID-19 on board cruise ships, robust protocols including testing and masking, among other elements, have reduced the risk of the pandemic's onboard spread.  As of Thursday, 52 cruise ships were sailing with paying passengers in U.S. waters following CDC guidance, according to the CDC's cruise ship status tracker, spokesperson Dave Daigle told USA TODAY.”

 

Good overview and background as to how the CDC is getting ready to loosen up and allow more "flexibility" for future cruising.

 

Full story at:

https://www.yahoo.com/now/covid-protocols-cruises-absolutely-worked-191044849.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 69,025 views:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

[boccenana]

38 minutes ago, TLCOhio said:

 

Appreciate these good comments, opinions and follow-ups from Silver Spectre and boccenana.  From our first cruise in July 2010 on the Silver Cloud to the summer of 2009 on the Silver Muse to Alaska, we have seen some changes.  But, overall, we have been very happy as "change is not always bad.  Change can mean improvements and/or focusing more on the higher priority customer needs/interests.   Itineraries are our top priority and Silversea is excellent for creativity and unique offerings in that category  The staffs been very good and highly responsive.  For us, worrying about whether we get caviar or not, is not our major priority or need.  The newer ships such as the Muse are very nice and highly impressive.  

 

From USA Today and Yahoo News today, this morning, they had this headline: “ 'I felt safer on the cruise than Walmart': COVID protocols on cruises prove effective, initial CDC data shows” with these highlights: “The coronavirus continues to be present on cruise ships sailing in U.S. waters, data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention obtained by USA TODAY shows. But travelers are feeling more secure with the  protocols in place.  In the two-month period spanning from when the first cruise sailed with paying passengers on June 26 through Aug. 26, there were 452 confirmed cases of coronavirus on cruise ships reported by cruise lines to the health agency.  The cases reported were spread among crew and passengers who tested positive via viral testing on ships.  'We've never said that cruising will be a zero-risk activity,' Capt. Aimee Treffiletti, who leads the CDC's maritime unit, told USA TODAY in late October. "I think we've all always expected that cases would be identified.' ' 'Unlike other forms of travel, a cruise ship is more like congregate residential setting where thousands of travelers (passengers and crew) are living for multiple days (or months for crew) on the same ship: eating, sleeping, and participating in activities together in one location. COVID-19, like other illnesses, can spread quickly in group settings like cruise ships,'  Caitlin Shockey, spokesperson for the CDC, added in an email to USA TODAY.  The protocol in place on ships to mitigate COVID-19 'absolutely has' worked to make cruise ships safer as the world faces a global pandemic, Treffiletti said.  While there still remains some risk of transmission of COVID-19 on board cruise ships, robust protocols including testing and masking, among other elements, have reduced the risk of the pandemic's onboard spread.  As of Thursday, 52 cruise ships were sailing with paying passengers in U.S. waters following CDC guidance, according to the CDC's cruise ship status tracker, spokesperson Dave Daigle told USA TODAY.”

 

Good overview and background as to how the CDC is getting ready to loosen up and allow more "flexibility" for future cruising.

 

Full story at:

https://www.yahoo.com/now/covid-protocols-cruises-absolutely-worked-191044849.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 69,025 views:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

We too had our first cruise in December 2010 on the Cloud. It was our first cruise ever. That pretty much set a high standard for any future cruises we would be lucky enough to book.

 

Our last cruise was on the Muse to New Zealand and Australia in 2019. Two nights before that cruise ended, while in the Indian Ocean,  we were notified that our one and only child, our Son Scott was missing.

 

The new friends we made on the cruise surrounded us with love and support until we disembarked. That is what makes Silversea,  particularly the Connessiuers Corner so special to us. It is where we have made the most fantastic friendships.🤝😘

 

We were looking forward to a 48 day Athens to Singapore that got cancelled a few month's ago. Each one was the cruise of a lifetime for us.

Thankfully we replaced that cancelled one with two more cruises that will be even better.🤗

 

The very close friendships we made on those first two cruises are still the highlight of our memories.

Silversea has a very warm place in our hearts for that reason.🥰

 

Sorry to digress, I think after so much stress put on the world this last almost two years leaves our emotions bare.

The excitement of knowing we will able to cruise once again is overwhelming. 🤣

 

Elaine😎

 

 

 

 

 

[rkacruiser]

9 hours ago, TLCOhio said:

Jason Liberty to succeed Richard Fain as Royal Caribbean CEO” 

 

WOW!  I was not aware of that news.  Thanks for posting it.  I have not listened to the analysts Calls and really appreciate your impression of this CFO in his comments.

 

It's interesting that we do gain some idea of these people when we listen to these Calls.  My faith in the leadership of CCL is partly based in what I have heard from the executives that speak during those Calls.

 

8 hours ago, boccenana said:

I was so sad when Silversea was sold out to Royal Caribbean but was hoping they would not only keep up the high bar that was set by Silversea but even improve.

 

This has to be one of the toughest industries to not only run but to run well.

 

With a new CEO we shall wait and see what shakes out.

 

When Seabourn was acquired by CCL, there was much concern.  If you read the Seabourn Forum, it remains an excellent cruise product.  No reason that Silverseas will not also in the future in my opinion.  

[jollyjones]

 

And I continue to think we dodged a bullet when RCI bought SS when they did - how long do you think Manfredi could have supported the financial loss on his own during the shutdown?

 

Even if the level of service changes a little (and having cruised in September on the Muse, I have no reason to think it will) at least SS still exists.

 

OK, time will tell with Jason Liberty, but I'm not feeling pessimistic.