PCR test required by Silversea within 48 hours prior to boarding

[DCPIV]

I am very glad that SS got reasonable with their requirements and with maintaining testing at the pier for a reasonable time for those that want that.

 

This actually works out great for us.  Since we're both boosted, we actually can test at home before heading to the airport to spend a couple days ashore before boarding.  I don't mind at all paying for our own tests if that's the case!

 

All they need to do, now, is get the word out to the streets and clean up that half-baked email from before.

 

As an aside, I'm neither surprised nor disappointed that the covid testing officer on the ship was not aware of the revised policy.  As mentioned, it's not something they need to be aware of.  It's nice if they do, but they don't need up to the minute information on shoreside requirements.

[wren2]

Just seen my TA who called Silversea London office about the corrective email I should receive re PCR tests. Was told I would get it shortly!

 

Sounds rather like the coloured baggage tags I have been asking about for six months. Just told they were in negotiations with a new manufacturer. Another cost cutting measure I am sure. I still use my Silversea leather tags from the good old days but the coloured tags made you easily identifiable to the Silversea airport greeters.

[wren2]

Spoke to London office late this afternoon. They have received no update and are waiting to hear from the Chief Medical Officer based in Monte Carlo!

[audobon_tx]

6 hours ago, Alturia said:

It looks like SS has changed it's policy and will accept antigen tests. Take a look at 

https://www.silversea.com/lp-silversea-hrts-consumer.html

 

I've copied the relevant sections below. Note that 

FULLY VACCINATED = a person has received their primary series of COVID-19 vaccines

UP TO DATE = a person has received all recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including any booster dose(s) when eligible

 

Pre-Embarkation Testing Requirements
If you arrive for embarkation with a valid antigen or PCR negative test result (administered by a verified third party, either a laboratory or pharmacy), please make note you will enjoy expedited boarding. If you require pier-side testing by Silversea upon embarkation, please note this will result in a delayed boarding process for you.

Fully Vaccinated Guests: If you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (but have not received an additional dose or booster), you must provide a negative antigen or PCR test result, administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy), taken no more than 2 days prior to boarding your ship. If you are unable to obtain a negative test in time for embarkation, Silversea will continue to provide complimentary pier-side testing prior to boarding the ship, through April 30, 2022.

Up to Date Vaccinated Guests: If you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines, you must provide a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test result, administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy), taken no more than 3 days prior to boarding your ship. If you are unable to obtain a negative test in time for embarkation, Silversea will continue to provide complimentary pier-side testing prior to boarding the ship, through April 30, 2022.

 

Hate to be a party pooper but what happens when SS quits pier-side testing on May 1?  I assume that those whose travel plans make finding a test that fits within the validity window difficult at best can just lump it.

[dawntrdr]

Let's hope that by May 1 testing will no longer be required!  Alternatively, the medical officer will administer one of those little antigen tests but you'll have to pay a fee.

[DCPIV]

42 minutes ago, audobon_tx said:

 

Hate to be a party pooper but what happens when SS quits pier-side testing on May 1?  I assume that those whose travel plans make finding a test that fits within the validity window difficult at best can just lump it.

 

After the reaction that just came from the last announcement, I doubt they will just tell passengers that they are on their own.  I have no idea what they'll wind up doing, but I'd be willing to bet that the offer tests at a cost (and you might need to book it in advance).  

 

As much as I would happy to see a world where there is no more need for testing before cruising, I doubt we'll be there by May.

[machotspur]

2 hours ago, wren2 said:

Just seen my TA who called Silversea London office about the corrective email I should receive re PCR tests. Was told I would get it shortly!

 

 

Yep - me too !

 

I'm actually not too precious about receiving the corrective email. For me a printout of the webpage kindly posted above by Alturia is OK for me, knowing it has been updated on the SS website in the past 48 hours or so.

 

Whilst previously being less than pleased at the previous email the new policy is fine for me. I'm OK with arranging an Antigen test at my local pharmacy to avoid the potential wait at embarkation. Typically the cost is £30, with the results & certification available in around 15 minutes. Plus the amended policy allows for the test to be taken in the preceding 3 days - versus 2 days previously.

 

Notwithstanding this our forthcoming cruise on 1st April is our 1st attempt at giving Silversea another try, following an 8 year absence. This fiasco isn't a great start !!

 

Of course an apology from Silversea would be most appropriate - but a pink porker flying through the sky is more likely methinks !  

   

       

[Alturia]

2 hours ago, audobon_tx said:

 

Hate to be a party pooper but what happens when SS quits pier-side testing on May 1?  I assume that those whose travel plans make finding a test that fits within the validity window difficult at best can just lump it.

Since SS will now accept antigen tests there should be no problem taking the test within the time windows. You can easily use the home tests with video monitoring that are designed for travel. These tests can be purchased ahead of time and you can use them anywhere you have wifi or mobile data and they return results in 15 to 30 minutes. They also are accepted for reentry to the US.

 

See for example

 

https://www.qured.us/

https://www.ellumecovidtest.com/travel

https://store.optum.com/shop/products/abbott-binaxNOW-COVID-19-ag-at-home-test-kit-2-pack/

[Desperate to Sail]

12 minutes ago, Alturia said:

Since SS will now accept antigen tests there should be no problem taking the test within the time windows. You can easily use the home tests with video monitoring that are designed for travel. These tests can be purchased ahead of time and you can use them anywhere you have wifi or mobile data and they return results in 15 to 30 minutes. They also are accepted for reentry to the US.

 

See for example

 

https://www.qured.us/

https://www.ellumecovidtest.com/travel

https://store.optum.com/shop/products/abbott-binaxNOW-COVID-19-ag-at-home-test-kit-2-pack/

 

Sorry. But SS requires swab test be administered by lab or pharmacy. A proctored "at home" test is not going met their requirements. Here again is the link to the new policy statement.

 

https://www.silversea.com/lp-silversea-hrts-consumer.html

 

[Alturia]

35 minutes ago, Desperate to Sail said:

 

Sorry. But SS requires swab test be administered by lab or pharmacy. A proctored "at home" test is not going met their requirements. Here again is the link to the new policy statement.

 

https://www.silversea.com/lp-silversea-hrts-consumer.html

 

I did read that policy so I guess it all depends on the definition of "administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy)..."

 

I interpreted that to mean that "home" tests verified via video by a third party will be accepted. You don't read it that way. Looks like here's something else for SS to clarify.

 

But given that these tests were/are accepted by many countries for entry and that the US accepts these tests for reentry it boggles the mind that SS will not accept them. But I suppose stranger things have happened.

Edited March 8, 2022 by Alturia

[ronrick1943]

34 minutes ago, Alturia said:

I did read that policy so I guess it all depends on the definition of "administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy)..."

 

I interpreted that to mean that "home" tests verified via video by a third party will be accepted. You don't read it that way. Looks like here's something else for SS to clarify.

 

But given that these tests were/are accepted by many countries for entry and that the US accepts these tests for reentry it boggles the mind that SS will not accept them. But I suppose stranger things have happened.

I’d their are so many questions regarding the test one would think SS is smart enough and has a communication department to get this out and right.

[Desperate to Sail]

33 minutes ago, Alturia said:

I did read that policy so I guess it all depends on the definition of "administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy)..."

 

I interpreted that to mean that "home" tests verified via video by a third party will be accepted. You don't read it that way. Looks like here's something else for SS to clarify.

 

But given that these tests were/are accepted by many countries for entry and that the US accepts these tests for reentry it boggles the mind that SS will not accept them. But I suppose stranger things have happened.

 

I would be happy to be wrong on this. We're embarking Civitavecchia August 20 after an overnight flight from DFW and 2 extra nights in Rome. We'll either grab a test at the airport before we leave or try to find a pharmacy in Rome to do the swab. I really wish SS would organize a central swabbing station at the pier. I'm paying the cost regardless and it would be much less of a hassle and worry.

 

The irony is that Italy currently requires no testing for vaccinated visitors prior to entry.

[Desperate to Sail]

1 hour ago, ronrick1943 said:

I’d their are so many questions regarding the test one would think SS is smart enough and has a communication department to get this out and right.

 

One last word for now.

 

Trying to comply with all the Covid rules and regs is akin to SS requiring each passenger to have a life vest but then requiring the passenger to furnish their own. Good luck everyone. 

Edited March 8, 2022 by Desperate to Sail

[Host Jazzbeau]

1 hour ago, Desperate to Sail said:

 

One last word for now.

 

Trying to comply with all the Covid rules and regs is akin to SS requiring each passenger to have a life vest but then requiring the passenger to furnish their own. Good luck everyone. 

Actually, we have life vests – or can borrow them from our son's sailboat...

[turtlemichael]

This has been, and continues to be, a lesson in how not to manage a situation that requires clear and precise communication.

[bohaiboy]

12 hours ago, DCPIV said:

I am very glad that SS got reasonable with their requirements and with maintaining testing at the pier for a reasonable time for those that want that.

 

This actually works out great for us.  Since we're both boosted, we actually can test at home before heading to the airport to spend a couple days ashore before boarding.  I don't mind at all paying for our own tests if that's the case!

 

All they need to do, now, is get the word out to the streets and clean up that half-baked email from before.

 

As an aside, I'm neither surprised nor disappointed that the covid testing officer on the ship was not aware of the revised policy.  As mentioned, it's not something they need to be aware of.  It's nice if they do, but they don't need up to the minute information on shoreside requirements.

SS blatantly mis interpreted the CDC guidelines which all along said rapid antigen testing was acceptable.  I dont see how they could have interpreted it incorrectly unless the person interpreting it had a lack of understanding of the English language.

[CJANDH]

Received this from "the boss" a few minutes ago. Seems some sanity has come home.

 

We are writing today to provide an important update to our recently released Healthy Return to Service (HRTS) protocols shared with you on March 1, 2022. We appreciate your attention to these ever-evolving procedures that are in place to keep you safe and healthy whilst enjoying your worldwide explorations with Silversea. After further consideration, including feedback from our guests, these updates and clarifications to our HRTS protocols address the following points regarding vaccination status requirements, pre-cruise testing requirements, and onboard protocols: VACCINATION STATUS REQUIREMENTS: Fully Vaccinated Guests: All embarking crew and guests must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least two weeks prior to embarkation. Only guests fully vaccinated with approved WHO vaccines (see here) will be permitted to board. A copy of your vaccination certificate must be uploaded to "My Silversea" in advance of your travels, in addition to showing your vaccination certificate or printed copy during the check-in and embarkation process. Up To Date Vaccinated Guests: You will need to be fully up to date with your vaccine status ("up to date" means a person has received all recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including any booster dose(s) when eligible), in accordance with each of the countries you plan to visit on your respective itinerary. We recommend that you refer to each country's official government website to understand the complete vaccination status requirements for entry, as well as the ability to roam freely, enter restaurants, cultural institutions, etc. For example, some countries may allow entry for fully vaccinated travellers, but will require "up to date" vaccine status to dine at a restaurant. It is your responsibility to ensure you are adequately inoculated to enter and enjoy the countries on your itinerary. PRE-EMBARKATION TESTING REQUIREMENTS If you arrive for embarkation with a valid antigen or PCR negative test result (administered by a verified third party, either a laboratory or pharmacy), please make note you will enjoy expedited boarding. If you require pier-side testing by Silversea upon embarkation, please note this will result in a delayed boarding process for you. Fully Vaccinated Guests: If you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (but have not received an additional dose or booster), you must provide a negative antigen or PCR test result, administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy), taken no more than 2 days prior to boarding your ship. If you are unable to obtain a negative test in time for embarkation, Silversea will continue to provide complimentary pier-side testing prior to boarding the ship, through April 30, 2022. Up To Date Vaccinated Guests: If you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines, you must provide a negative Covid-19 antigen or PCR test result, administered by a verified third party (either a laboratory or pharmacy), taken no more than 3 days prior to boarding your ship. If you are unable to obtain a negative test in time for embarkation, Silversea will continue to provide complimentary pier-side testing prior to boarding the ship, through April 30, 2022. To ensure your peace of mind, the best and safest course of action is for you to be up to date with your COVID-19 vaccine and arrive at your departure terminal with a valid negative test result dated no more than 3 days prior to embarkation. ONBOARD PROTOCOLS   Masks: The wearing of masks during the cruise will now be at each guest's discretion, with the exception of the casino, the theatre, and during muster drills where masks remain mandatory. Whilst we recognize that the wearing of a mask is a personal choice, we do strongly encourage our guests to wear a mask whilst indoors aboard ship, other than when actively eating or drinking, or when in the privacy of your suite. The staff and crew aboard all our ships will continue to wear masks for the foreseeable future. Physical Distancing: Physical distancing among guests will no longer be required; although our crew will maintain this practice. With the uncertainty surrounding current travel regulations, this information may evolve; as well, it may change based on the requirements of a particular cruising region. Please be reminded that local regulations may require more stringent protocols (e.g. masks may be mandatory), in which case Silversea will comply with all local requirements and guidelines. For your reference, more information on our Healthy Return to Service Protocols may be found on our website by clicking here. Thank you for your cooperation in understanding and adhering to the measures in place to safeguard your travels. These are exciting times as we return to the global discovery we all love, and on behalf of everyone at Silversea, we look forward to welcoming you aboard. Best personal regards,

Roberto Martinoli, President & CEO

[bitob]

Fyi

with only 100 on our cruise no one is wearing masks in the theatre unless they choose to

 

[CJANDH]

57 minutes ago, bitob said:

Fyi

with only 100 on our cruise no one is wearing masks in the theatre unless they choose to

 

Which cruise are you on?

[bitob]

21 minutes ago, CJANDH said:

Which cruise are you on?

Moon. 17 nights Caribbean. Almost over

[Silver Spectre]

8 hours ago, bitob said:

Fyi

with only 100 on our cruise no one is wearing masks in the theatre unless they choose to

 

Most guests on the Whisper are complying but a small minority is already ignoring the theatre requirement. I note that the mask requirement seems to no longer apply to tour buses or the spa, why?

Edited March 10, 2022 by Silver Spectre

[bitob]

Btw

 

the testing officer on board thanked me for bringing this thread to her attention. Lol

[dawntrdr]

Just received our Cruise Ticket for March 31 cruise from Lisbon on Silver Spirit.  It includes the content of Mr. Martinolli's email about testing, verbatim (which is also on the website under "Covid" information).  So far, we're all on the same page.  It also says (under the topic "Peace of Mind While on Board"):  

 

"Daily touchless temperature checks:  Your butler will take your temperature in the comfort of your suite every morning."

 

I assume that this was an oversight, based on what we have been told about the relaxed practices on the Moon.

[bitob]

13 minutes ago, dawntrdr said:

Just received our Cruise Ticket for March 31 cruise from Lisbon on Silver Spirit.  It includes the content of Mr. Martinolli's email about testing, verbatim (which is also on the website under "Covid" information).  So far, we're all on the same page.  It also says (under the topic "Peace of Mind While on Board"):  

 

"Daily touchless temperature checks:  Your butler will take your temperature in the comfort of your suite every morning."

 

I assume that this was an oversight, based on what we have been told about the relaxed practices on the Moon.

No one proofreads at hq

[ErwinSchrodinger]

I guess no more pierside testing after 4/30.