Ponant to Require Vaccinations for All Passengers and Crew
by Jessica Montevago /
PONANT announced on Wednesday it will require all guests and crew members to be vaccinated when the French cruise line resumes sailing on June 16.
The new policy will require all passengers and crew members over 16 years old to be vaccinated before the cruise. Guests and crew will also need to show proof of a negative PCR test carried out within 72 hours of boarding the ship.
It joins other health and safety measures already put in place, including screening and decontamination measures when boarding, ensuring those who board do not carry the virus, followed by onboard sanitary protocols throughout the cruise.
PONANT has also revised its booking policy to allow for greater flexibility and assurance. New bookings made before June 30, 2021, for a cruise scheduled before March 31, 2023, will only require a deposit of 25%.
The remaining balance is due 30 days before departure, and passengers can cancel the trip up until 30 days before with the full amount being credited toward another reservation within two years of the initial departure date. In the event of a positive COVID test within 30 days of the sailing, passengers will receive a full refund at the time of cancellation.