Cruise Ships Could Return to USVI Mid-July

U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS —The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is "committed" to letting cruise ships set sail this summer. The CDC sent a letter sent to the major cruise companies on Wednesday outlining plans for the cruise industry to resume operations. The letter was first obtained and reported on by USA Today.

In a follow-up statement, the CDC clarified that cruises could resume as early as mid-July if they can prove they are in compliance with the CDC's Framework for Conditional Sailing Order.

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The CDC also outlined new guidelines to help cruises resume operations as soon as possible. If a ship can confirm that 98% of its crew and 95% of its passengers are fully vaccinated, they can set sail. If they cannot meet those thresholds, the ship is required to undergo a simulated voyage, first. However, in further show of commitment to the industry, the CDC said it would respond to applications for simulated voyages within five days.

Does this mean we'll be welcoming throngs of cruise ship travelers in July? We don't know, yet. But for cruise companies, cruise-loving travelers and everyone who benefits financially from the cruise industry, there is finally hope on the horizon.

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