Could the CDC's Latest Travel Notice Mean More Cruise Delays?

It has been over a year since the Disney Cruise Line has set sail with guests aboard.

©Disney | Disney Magic Cruise Ship

And, as Disney continues to cancel select cruises through mid-fall, they have remained hopeful that cruises may be able to resume limited operations later into the season as COVID-19 vaccines become more widely available. But, recent guidelines from the CDC may eliminate one major travel location from the cruise itinerary.

The CDC has updated its travel recommendations for the Bahamas and increased the COVID-19 level from a level 3 to a level 4. This means that the risk level of contracting or spreading the COVID-19 virus is very high for those who travel to the area.

©CDC

Due to the risk, the CDC recommends that all travelers avoid the Bahamas, including those who have been fully vaccinated. And, for those who must travel to the area, it is advised that they “wear a mask, stay 6 ft from others, avoid crowds, and wash their hands.”

Health and Safety Sign in Disney Springs

Earlier this month the CDC announced that people who are fully vaccinated can return to leisure travel, but this update could mean that the return to cruise travel may be more difficult. Many Disney Cruise Line itineraries involve a stop in the Bahamas, including Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, so travel to the island may not be feasible.

Pluto on Castaway Cay

Currently, select Disney cruises are suspended through October, though they are trying a new approach to sailing this summer on the Disney Magic in the UK.

We will continue to monitor the updates regarding the Disney Cruise Line and bring you the latest! And, in the meantime, you can get your island fix in with a tour of Disney’s Castaway Cay!