Normal cruises on the horizon?

[Sleepyluke]

Now I know there could be 300 versions of reality, but go with me here for a minute. What do you think DCL is going to do when the 5-11 vaccines are approved (and most reporting show 6 month to 5 shortly after)? Will DCL go like some of the other lines and become vaccinated only and return to "normal" at that point - no masks, parties, whatever? I know that the kids are currently throwing a wrench in the ratios and DCL won't go without kids, but can you see them wanting a more open cruise, or do you think they are sticking closer to the current model of masks and distance and fewer things open? Will the kids being available open them back up?

 

[Clojel]

Now I know there could be 300 versions of reality, but go with me here for a minute. What do you think DCL is going to do when the 5-11 vaccines are approved (and most reporting show 6 month to 5 shortly after)? Will DCL go like some of the other lines and become vaccinated only and return to "normal" at that point - no masks, parties, whatever? I know that the kids are currently throwing a wrench in the ratios and DCL won't go without kids, but can you see them wanting a more open cruise, or do you think they are sticking closer to the current model of masks and distance and fewer things open? Will the kids being available open them back up?

My guess is that once the 5-11 vaccine is approved, they will require that that age group be vaccinated to sail. I still expect to see pre-boarding testing...but I anticipate a lessening of other restrictions. As the number of vaccinated passengers increases, the risk of an outbreak - while not non-existent - will decrease...so I expect DCL to respond accordingly. I think we'll see meet & greets come back in the next few months, outdoor deck parties, more people being allowed in for shows, etc... and a slow, steady rise in the occupancy numbers. I expect cruises to be pretty close to normal by next summer, with a requirement that at least 5+ be vaccinated...if not everyone.

ETA: I do think it is possible that DCL will wait until the younger age groups have full approval, not just emergency use (which should happen for 5-11 in the next few weeks) , before they REQUIRE that they be vaccinated. But, ultimately, they'll do whatever the ports of call are requiring them to do.