Do I need to get a COVID-19 test for my cruise? Answers to your pre- and post-cruise testing inquiries.

The journey to reviving the cruise industry was lengthy and filled with many challenges.

With ships now operational, global COVID-19 death rates have decreased, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has eliminated its opt-in protocols for vessels. As a result, nearly all cruise lines have rolled back their pre-cruise COVID-19 testing mandates.

Furthermore, most countries have removed their entry testing requirements. This is great news for travelers, as the testing timelines set by individual nations often differed from those of the cruise lines, complicating pre-cruise testing for those departing from international ports.

Amid all these changes, Dinogo is ready to tackle your most urgent questions regarding COVID-19 testing for cruises. For a detailed overview of current testing and vaccination protocols, check out our pre-cruise vaccination guide.

Editor's note: This article aims to outline general guidelines applicable to most cruise lines. Testing requirements may differ by cruise line and embarkation port. For the most up-to-date information relevant to your itinerary, please verify with your cruise line and the regulations of the country from which you'll be departing.

COVID-19 testing prior to cruising

Is a COVID-19 test necessary before my cruise?

Nearly all cruise lines have eliminated their mandatory testing requirements, except where local regulations at the countries and ports they visit still mandate it. It’s improbable that you will need to test before boarding unless your country or municipality requires it, or if you are showing symptoms consistent with COVID-19.

How soon before my cruise do I need to get tested?

If your cruise line or the destinations in your itinerary mandate negative test results, these typically need to be obtained within two to five days before your embarkation date, based on the specific guidelines.

Where can I find a testing site that provides timely results?

Pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS provide antigen and PCR testing by appointment. However, due to the short timeframe for obtaining results, there's no assurance you'll receive them in time for your cruise.

The ideal choice is to order at-home antigen testing kits that provide telehealth support. You can find these on the Optum or eMed websites.

The type of test you will need depends on the specific requirements of your situation. If a professionally supervised at-home antigen test is necessary, opt for one of Abbott's BinaxNOW tests. (Ensure it’s the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test if the cruise line or destination mandates results from supervised tests.)

If a proctored test isn’t required for the results to be valid, another option is self-administered at-home antigen testing, which you can perform without proctoring. These tests are available at many local pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens, as well as big-box retailers like Target and Walmart, and are generally much cheaper than the supervised alternatives. Before purchasing, check to see if you qualify for a shipment of free government-funded tests by visiting the official COVID-19 website of the United States.

Will my cruise line offer testing at the embarkation port?

While most major cruise lines previously provided same-day testing at embarkation ports, this is no longer the case. If a negative test result is necessary for boarding your cruise, ensure you arrive fully prepared.

What is the cost of a COVID-19 test?

The cost of a COVID-19 test largely depends on the type of test, the location and method of testing, and whether you mention that it’s for travel purposes. Prices can range from free to several hundred dollars.

At a large drive-thru pharmacy, there’s a good chance your test will be covered by your health insurance. However, this hinges on whether the reason for the test is specified when you schedule your appointment.

For instance, CVS inquires whether you need the test to fulfill travel requirements. In such cases, insurance is unlikely to cover the cost.

If you choose to order a test online, you’ll find a wide range of prices, from $4 for a single unproctored antigen test (or 25 tests for $25, which breaks down to just $1 per test) to around $70 for a pair of proctored antigen tests, plus shipping costs. If you have a flexible spending account or a health savings account, the IRS states that at-home tests qualify as eligible expenses. The White House has also noted that individuals with private health insurance may be reimbursed for these at-home test expenses. Be sure to check with your insurance provider for specifics.

If you qualify for a shipment of free at-home, unsupervised tests, as previously mentioned, there will be no cost to you.

If you need a PCR test and wish to administer it at home, be aware that it can be quite costly, with kits typically priced between approximately $30 and $120 each.

Remember that if you require COVID testing during your cruise—whether from an onboard medical center or a shoreside hospital or doctor’s office—you will be responsible for the expenses, which can be significant unless you have a travel insurance policy that includes coverage for this.

COVID-19 testing during a cruise

Will I need to get tested during my cruise?

At present, no cruise lines mandate regular onboard testing for passengers. The only exceptions are if you feel unwell and request a test, or if you show symptoms that necessitate testing. In such cases, you will be responsible for any related costs.

Furthermore, if a passenger feels unwell and subsequently tests positive for COVID-19 on your cruise, you might be required to take a test if the vessel's contact tracing program identifies you as having been in close contact with the sick passenger. Testing in these situations is covered by the cruise line.

Most countries have lifted their entry testing requirements, making it very unlikely that you’ll need to take a test before disembarking to return home.

Post-cruise COVID-19 testing

Will I need to take a COVID-19 test after my cruise?

You would only need to test after your cruise if required by a country you’re visiting or by your home country for your return. Since most countries have eliminated these requirements, it's very likely that you won’t need to undergo a post-cruise test.