Cruiseship companies have been caught by surprise by an unexpected announcement from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that replaces a 'no sail' with a 'conditional sail' order.
Carnival Corporation, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines have been putting significant pressure on US government officials and the CDC to allow sailing from US ports as soon as possible.
The Conditional Sailing Order includes initial phases of testing and additional safeguards for crew members for health and safety protection.
Subsequent phases will include simulated test and a phased return to passenger voyages.
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