Royal Caribbean Group said it will ‘very likely’ implement Covid-19 testing as part of its safety measures.
Testing will be a part of new as yet unpublished protocols it will launch ahead of the expiry of the current CDC No Sail order.
"We have not yet reached a point in our protocols where we’re ready to publish and release for discussion but it’s very likely that testing will occur," said Michael Bayley, CEO of Royal Caribbean International.
Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are working together on new safety standards as part of the ‘Healthy Sail Panel’ partnership.
It tapped former FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb to be co-chair of the group.
Royal Caribbean Group brands have cancelled more than 1,500 sailings so far and posted a $1.3 billion loss for the second quarter.
It said it will defer delivery of two of five new ships due before the end of 2021, including mega liner Wonder of the Seas.
The company also said it wouldn’t rule out selling some ships.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US editor
