Response on Tours and PCR test after disembark from P&O

[Technoman2]

I asked Guest Support the following questions and the answer is below.

 

I have 2 questions that i cannot seem to get a definative answer too.  Firstly will the PCR test that we have to take within 2 days of arrival back in the UK be organised or carried out by P&O before we leave the ship. Secondly some of  the organised tours give the impression that you are free to walk around the locations on your own after a guided tour is finished and make your own way back to the ship. If this is the case has the situation changed and will we be able to leave the ship and visit places on our own. Most of the organised tours that we would have wanted to book are already full so will P&;O be adding more tours. I for one dont want to book something until we know exactly what is happening which may mean booking tours when we are on the ship. we have been on several cruises with P&O and are really looking forward to getting back into cruising mode but as you can understand this covid situation is a worry for everyone.

Response:

Thank you for your email. Please accept our sincere apologies for the delay in our reply.

At present, we do not provide any testing post disembarkation. Please refer to local government guidelines for requirements.

At present, our policy is to restrict any disembarkation from the ship to P&O official excursions only, with no free roaming before or after these planned excursions. This policy is currently set to be in place until the end of this year and is being reviewed regularly in accordance with updates to government guidelines.

Should you have interest in booking an excursion that is sold out, please give us a call on 03453 555 111 to register your interest and we will add you to the waiting list. Should we receive enough guests on the waiting list, we can arrange additional excursions.

I hope this information has helped to answer your enquiry and we look forward to welcoming you on board.
 

Hope this helps a bit.

 

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[davecttr]

P&O really need to provide a comprehensive test package with an approved supplier on the Government list. It would be good for business as leaving passengers to sort out the mess will just encourage cancellations or no booking at all.

[Cathygh]

There is a report elsewhere quting the Beast TA, saying P&O will update passengers on the first 2 International cruises in 3 days regarding testing etc.

However if the rumoured lockdown at half term becomes a reality I can't see these cruises going ahead anyway. I hope they do, I am still thinking of booking one.

[GOQ]

In their cruise advice Marella provide a link to their suggested testing partner who will sell you a package of  a pre cruise test, a test to be done on the cruise ship 2 days before you return home (which you take with you on the cruise), and the Day 2 test to be done at home.

In Wales the government does not accept commercial tests so we have to order an additional  Day 2 test from their Official supplier.

 

I assume this package is subsidised and specific to Marella as it is only £30 for the package of 3 tests while the Welsh CTM test is £68 for the single Day 2 test.

 

I don't know if they produce a test package for P&O.

Edited September 7, 2021 by GOQ
Added costs

[tring]

3 hours ago, davecttr said:

P&O really need to provide a comprehensive test package with an approved supplier on the Government list. It would be good for business as leaving passengers to sort out the mess will just encourage cancellations or no booking at all.

 

The onus is on you to arrange the two day test after disembarkation, the cruise line cannot arrange it for you.  For our 21st Sept cruise we received six pages of details of Protocols, from Fred last Friday, including details of how to go through the systems.  These protocols are about what is required by the UK Government (for sailing from/to Dover) and also Spanish requirements, so not specific to a cruise line, though could change of course, for later cruises and is presumably why details are not being sent out very early.

 

I have copied below, details I have put on another forum, which may be of interest to people here:-

 

Just received our eleven page email from Fred re protocols for our Spanish cruise, though five pages were brief descriptions of the tours offered, leaving just six pages of protocol details! Most is according to current requirements by the UK and Spanish Governments, so I will give details here.  We are also told that at present all our ports will allow us to go ashore independently, but that can change anytime and the up to date information will be available by the shore tours department when on the ship.

 

Entry to Spain

They are happy to accept the result of our covid test done by the Cruise Line, pre-embarkation.  I think there is also a form to fill in which we will need to do on the ship, so we will be told more then.  Spain also wants vaccination proof, which for UK pax will be the same as that is required to board the ship (via the NHS App or by obtaining a written copy by calling 119). 

Spain are very strict re what can be given as proof and more details can be found here (this also gives other links to relevant Spanish website areas):-  https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/spain/entry-requirements?dm_i=4B9T,155RS,117D7L,58D0Y,1

 

Re- entry to UK

We will need a covid test three days before our return, which will be done on the ship, overseen by the on board Medical team (Fred will charge us £10pp for that). 

 

We also need to order a two day test (a PCR test this time, two days after our return) from one of the Government’s “suitable providers”, which has to be valid for re-entry to the UK, when a reference number is given for your booked test (so not just any PCR test).  This can either be done through Fred, who uses BUPA at a cost of £77, or can arrange another ourselves (will be cheaper), but as we need to put the reference number on our Passenger Locator form on return, we will need to prove we have booked the test by providing that reference number before we initially embark the ship.  We have now booked our two day tests from an approved government supplier for £40pp.    

 

For people booked on Back to back cruises, they have to book a test for each return date and for any cruise when they will not be leaving the ship, they need to have put an earlier return date on their two day test request, so they can have the test delivered to them before initially embarking the ship and MUST take the test kit on board with them (more than one, if on three or more cruises).  They will be instructed on board when to take that test and pass it to guest services, who will ensure it is posted prior to the ship sailing on the next cruise.

 

Passenger Locator Form (PLF)

Has to be completed within 48 hours of arrival back into UK, but we are told we will need to fill this in on line, on the morning we return to the UK.  We are told it is not possible to fill this in at sea, due to the connectivity required.  We are also told that CLIA are currently working with the Government to, “try and find a more acceptable way of completing the PLF”, but it is not thought that would be agreed before we sail.

 

If anyone thinks they will not be able to complete the form on line, Fred has partnered with a company called The Travel Visa Company, who will take their details before sailing and then submit their form online at the appropriate time, for a fee of £12.95 per PLF (possibly + an extra charge if that is requested by phone, rather than by filling in their online request).  If anyone has trouble filling in the form on the morning of return to the UK, Fred will provide a help service at a cost of £20 per PLF.

 

Overall

No mention is made for other nationalities, including Scottish, but I assume the requirements will be the same for all, the legal requirement seems to be actually booking the two-day test, rather than returning it – but please do not take my word for that.  Unlike Princess, Fred does largely have just UK passengers (or at least UK residents). 

 

Hope this may be a useful information as to what is required at this stage, even though things can change before this Princess cruise.  Obviously, I have just written the main points here, but there is a lot more detailed instruction of how to go about various things that are needed.  Everyone can register ready to complete their PLF and enter their personal details (passport details etc.) into the site, so they will automatically appear on the form when you go to fill it in, so it is just the remaining questions about the specific journey to be answered on return to the UK.  We are both now registered for that and will remain for further travel we have planned for this winter. 

 

I am sure all cruise lines will be sending detailed details/instructions to their passengers, but probably not until much nearer the sailing date as things can change (we sail on 21st September and this arrived Friday 3rd Sept).   

 

 

Edited September 7, 2021 by tring

[GOQ]

Sorry, as you say, the onboard test has to be done three days before return, not 2 days.

 

Marella say they will provide onboard help filling in the required forms and free Wi-Fi to  access to the relevant websites.

 

You might think P&O could organise something similar.

 

[Son of Anarchy]

15 minutes ago, GOQ said:

You might think P&O could organise something similar.

 

Exactly.  For £30 we'd be happy to use the cruise line's preferred supplier, mainly for the ease of it all.  And ideally throw in complimentary wi-fi for a day on the return route to do the admin.  Or more likely add a few quid onto the cost of the test package to cover the wifi.

[terrierjohn]

25 minutes ago, GOQ said:

Sorry, as you say, the onboard test has to be done three days before return, not 2 days.

 

Marella say they will provide onboard help filling in the required forms and free Wi-Fi to  access to the relevant websites.

 

You might think P&O could organise something similar.

 

I think someone has posted that P&O will be doing the testing for the 3 day test prior to disembarking.

[tring]

41 minutes ago, GOQ said:

Sorry, as you say, the onboard test has to be done three days before return, not 2 days.

 

Marella say they will provide onboard help filling in the required forms and free Wi-Fi to  access to the relevant websites.

 

You might think P&O could organise something similar.

 

 

I understand for a previous cruise to Iceland Fred provided free WiFi for that website, but the problem was lack of sufficient connectivity at sea, hence he brought the ship back to Liverpool the evening before disembarkation. As I explained in my  post #5 above CLIA are in discussion with UK Gov to agree a different method for plf on cruises.  Other options to supply the form also explained in that post and will explain a lot of questions raised on this board.  All cruise lines will be doing similar as it is Gov requirements.  Marella seem to be subsidising the process, which I would not hope for with all lines though, but we will see.

 

Our return tests will cost £50 total.  £10 charge by Fred for doctor signing off lateral Flow test on the ship and £40 for two day test.

Edited September 7, 2021 by tring

[watsonbeau]

Assuming my Jan cruise goes ahead, how far in advance is it possible to order the Amber test or whatever ?  Just thinking of the Christmas post so would prefer to order early November if possible.  Am I right in that you can order it at any time ?  Thank you

[wowzz]

5 hours ago, watsonbeau said:

Assuming my Jan cruise goes ahead, how far in advance is it possible to order the Amber test or whatever ?  Just thinking of the Christmas post so would prefer to order early November if possible.  Am I right in that you can order it at any time ?  Thank you

I certainly wouldn't order the test now. Who knows what the rules will be in January. 

And you do not have to physically be in possession of the kit prior to leaving for the cruise.  You just need the order reference number for your documentation. 

You don't need to worry at this stage.

[Wonky]

Has anyone had any response about what happens if you test positive ON BOARD on the way back? I’ve asked the question but had no response. Stay on the ship for an extra cruise? Escorted by Border Force to a Heathrow quarantine hotel??!!

[picsa]

1 hour ago, Wonky said:

Has anyone had any response about what happens if you test positive ON BOARD on the way back? I’ve asked the question but had no response. Stay on the ship for an extra cruise? Escorted by Border Force to a Heathrow quarantine hotel??!!

And this is why the “pre-departure” test is stupid if it is being performed whilst you in transit. The ‘do not travel if positive’ rule cannot possibility apply - unless as soon as you test positive on the ship they throw you overboard, so as you say - what happens?
 

My guess would be - locked in your cabin with the 10 day isolation clock counting down and then completing the isolation at home. Although how you get from the ship to home if you came by coach or train will be interesting, and I would guess many at P&O have their fingers firmly crossed that they don’t need to find out.

 

 

[tring]

3 hours ago, Wonky said:

Has anyone had any response about what happens if you test positive ON BOARD on the way back? I’ve asked the question but had no response. Stay on the ship for an extra cruise? Escorted by Border Force to a Heathrow quarantine hotel??!!

 

My understanding is that someone who tests positive would be put ashore as soon as it was reasonably possible to do so, though may depend on the cruise lines policy and where you are at the time. 

 

If you returning home to disembarkation port, you would not need a quarantine hotel, unless you have visited a red country, which cruise ships will not be doing.  For the coach arriving in Southampton with someone who subsequently tested positive, the would be passengers were sent home in individual covid secure  transport for each travel bubble, (I presumed that was taxis/minibuses, probably with a glass screen between the driver and the passengers).  That is presuming you are well enough to travel.  If you test positive your insurance will kick in to get you home and is one reason why the cruise lines are so keen to insist you are fully insured for covid. 

Edited September 8, 2021 by tring

[Cruise_Rookie_2010]

Had this through today, seems to clear up the questions I had about testing.

	Pre-cruise checklist
	Remember to do the following before you travel:
			Check your details are up to date in My P&O Cruises
			Link your booking with your travelling group (if relevant)
			Obtain evidence of your COVID-19 vaccination status
			Arrange appropriate travel insurance and have proof of your policy
			Register for the UK government's Passenger Locator Form (PLF). This applies to all cruises calling at ports outside the UK
			Book a PCR test ready to take two days after you return home in the UK for all guests aged five years and above. Again, this applies to all cruises calling at ports outside the UK. All testing required for entry into the UK or country of disembarkation will be organised on board but you must organise the day two PCR test yourself. This is a requirement of the UK government and it is essential that you book it in advance as you need to provide the booking reference on the PLF
			Bring a data-enabled device (e.g. smartphone or tablet) to complete the PLF re-entry documentation for holidays calling at ports outside the UK
			Print e-tickets, boarding passes and luggage labels
			Pre-book on-board activities in My P&O Cruises
			Complete the Health Declaration in My P&O Cruises between one and three days before your holiday
			Pack face masks and hand sanitiser
			Pack black tie evening wear for Celebration Night

[davecttr]

Fashion police eh!. According to the last point

 

Also no more requirement to have a mobile phone to receive the text about your pre cruise lateral flow test?

A data enabled device? Why not say the PLF is completed online

[Bgees]

I see that the website has been updated today. Main interest regarding tests is here:

 

We also organise testing which will be required to disembark the ship in Southampton, per UK government requirements, and testing that may also be required to go ashore in various destinations on your itinerary. These tests will be available to purchase on board, at a cost of £18 per antigen test per person and £25 per PCR test per person. Currently the majority of ports we will be visiting this year do not require entry testing. However all guests disembarking in the UK are currently required to take a UK re-entry antigen test. All requirements are subject to change. During your holiday, destinations on your itinerary may have various documentation requirements. You are responsible for meeting the entry requirements of each destination but we will be happy to guide you through all testing and documentation needs on board. P&O Cruises cannot accept responsibility if you are denied entry to a country because you do not meet its entry requirements.

 

https://www.pocruises.com/cruise-with-confidence/our-assurance-to-you

[jaydee6969]

3 hours ago, davecttr said:

Also no more requirement to have a mobile phone to receive the text about your pre cruise lateral flow test?

 

Not so lucky I am afraid.  That list above is the pre-cruise checklist.  There is also a terminal checklist:-

 

Terminal checklist

• Mobile phone so that we can deliver your test result by text message at the terminal (please ensure that your mobile number is correct in My P&O Cruises)
• Health Declaration confirmation email
• Evidence of COVID-19 vaccination status
• Evidence of travel insurance
• Passport
• Boarding pass or travel documents.

 

 

[Castle25]

27 minutes ago, jaydee6969 said:

So nice of p&o that they will buy me a mobile phone for my holiday.....not all people have them..

 

Not so lucky I am afraid.  That list above is the pre-cruise checklist.  There is also a terminal checklist:-

 

Terminal checklist

• Mobile phone so that we can deliver your test result by text message at the terminal (please ensure that your mobile number is correct in My P&O Cruises)
• Health Declaration confirmation email
• Evidence of COVID-19 vaccination status
• Evidence of travel insurance
• Passport
• Boarding pass or travel documents.Hi

 

 

 

[Rebjon]

On 9/8/2021 at 8:39 PM, Wonky said:

Has anyone had any response about what happens if you test positive ON BOARD on the way back? I’ve asked the question but had no response. Stay on the ship for an extra cruise? Escorted by Border Force to a Heathrow quarantine hotel??!!

I asked P&O this and after having got a 'waffle' answer I kept prodding and they eventually said they didn't know!!! How can they be selling cruises with this level of customer service?

[davecttr]

9 minutes ago, Rebjon said:

I asked P&O this and after having got a 'waffle' answer I kept prodding and they eventually said they didn't know!!! How can they be selling cruises with this level of customer service?

I read somewhere that the southampton port authority as part of its COVID protocol deal with the cruise lines insists that the passenger(s) in question must be sent home. I presume the cruise line would have to organise this even if it is at the passengers expense. Is there a isolation hotel in Southampton? If not the nearest one would be Heathrow so you might as well be sent home.

[jeanlyon]

Just read this on line.  Things are changing rapidly

 

"

Expensive PCR Covid tests may be binned for fully vaccinated holidaymakers on their return to the UK, according to reports.

Already there has been talk of scraping the green and amber lists on the traffic light holiday system soon.

Now NHS’ free lateral flow tests could replace the expensive PCR test which is currently required on the second day after arrival and can cost more than £100, according to The Mail On Sunday.

 

This would save families hundreds of pounds when booking a holiday.

Covid tests before leaving Britain also may be dropped.

[tring]

15 minutes ago, jeanlyon said:

Just read this on line.  Things are changing rapidly

 

"

Expensive PCR Covid tests may be binned for fully vaccinated holidaymakers on their return to the UK, according to reports.

Already there has been talk of scraping the green and amber lists on the traffic light holiday system soon.

Now NHS’ free lateral flow tests could replace the expensive PCR test which is currently required on the second day after arrival and can cost more than £100, according to The Mail On Sunday.

 

This would save families hundreds of pounds when booking a holiday.

Covid tests before leaving Britain also may be dropped.

 

Now I wonder how accurate that is?

 

Regards the two day PCR tests we have already arranged ours for a cruise starting next week and they cost £40pp.  Even if we had used the link provided by the Cruise line (Fred), they still would only have cost £77pp.  They are being offered by quite a number of companies and numerous prices are in the £40 - £50 range with Fred's Bupa one being the most expensive that we considered.  

Edited September 12, 2021 by tring

[terrierjohn]

1 hour ago, davecttr said:

I read somewhere that the southampton port authority as part of its COVID protocol deal with the cruise lines insists that the passenger(s) in question must be sent home. I presume the cruise line would have to organise this even if it is at the passengers expense. Is there a isolation hotel in Southampton? If not the nearest one would be Heathrow so you might as well be sent home.

I assume that hotel quarantine only applies to those returning from a red list country, and P&O have said they will not call at any red list countries, so passengers testing positive on the return test would only need to isolate at home.  Additionally either passenger insurance or P&O should cover any additional return costs.

[jeanlyon]

I have found it in numerous places online including the Beeb, so maybe we will hear soon.