Pre Embark Cvd test. Which worked for you in last 45 days FL port departures

[Fogfog]

On 12/20/2021 at 8:33 PM, styles27 said:

It states unvaccinated under 12 must have a “RT- PCR”

 

One difference between RT PCR and PCR is the RT sample is sent to a lab and takes 2-3 days (or more in our state currently) for results. It is said to be the most accurate. 
 

The PCR is a rapid test which gives you results in 15-30 min. 
 

So if MSC states a specific test for that age group then I would be sure to get that test so you won’t be turned away. 
 

Here’s a link that explains the scientific differences 

https://www.enzolifesciences.com/science-center/technotes/2017/march/what-are-the-differences-between-pcr-rt-pcr-qpcr-and-rt-qpcr?/

 

The thing is -- if the results take 2-3 days--then its possible the results are outdated when you get them IF they require testing within 2 days of boarding

 

Pretty confusing whats ok and whats not

[styles27]

2 hours ago, Fogfog said:

 

The thing is -- if the results take 2-3 days--then its possible the results are outdated when you get them IF they require testing within 2 days of boarding

 

Pretty confusing whats ok and whats not

Agree. It makes sense to test at the pier before boarding. 
The proof of negative test taken 2 -3 days prior to embarkation never made sense to me. 

[Motegi]

For our cruise this week on Meraviglia all five members of our group took an at home self guided test 3 days prior to our departure.  The plan was if any of us tested positive at home we would utilize MSC's Cruise with Confidence program to reschedule as the rules stipulate that one must contact them 48 hours before your scheduled departure.

 

Happily we were all negative using the at home test kits.

 

Next we each went to our free county testing sites the following day to obtain our official tests to be used for boarding as these tests would fall within the stipulated 2 day window prior to departure.

 

Again we all tested negative.

 

With the results in hand we proceeded to port as scheduled and underwent MSC's newly reinstated additional testing at the terminal prior to check in.  

 

I was ok with MSC's current two stage testing as Omicron has been shown to have high false negativity rate during early infection.  In fact, many of the available antigen test kits recommend a two stage testing regimen.   If a person tests positive 2 days prior to their cruise they would hopefully be able to remain at home and not have to proceed with traveling to the port or incur the additional associated expenses.

 

We only added our own voluntary pretest as a precaution to protect our investment.

 

However I think it would be nice if MSC would slightly expand the window for their Cruise with Confidence program to allow rescheduling for those who find they are positive on their required 2 day prior test rather than letting those people fall into the cracks.    

Edited January 23, 2022 by Motegi