As we close the first two weeks of sailing and our first port stay, one thing is abundantly clear. Our voyagers are ready to travel! They are willing to take extra steps to ensure the safety of others and have been diligent in their virus mitigation efforts. We are so proud of this voyage and excited about the next few weeks.
Unfortunately, on land the coronavirus pandemic continues. As a result, we’ve had to make two itinerary updates. First, Morocco is not accepting cruise ships. As a result, we will stay in Spain an additional three days and will arrive in Portugal two days early. While we are disappointed that we cannot explore Morocco, we know our students will enjoy more time in-country during other port stays. In addition, Ireland has indicated that their COVID-19 policies will also not allow for a visit. As an alternative, we will access one of our Diversion Ports and instead travel to Denmark for this planned port stay, March 27-30. As always, all registered for field programs will be refunded and field classes will be rescheduled.
We have also updated our COVID-19 policy to ensure anyone who has a demonstrated COVID-19 recovery in the past 14-180 days will now be excluded from close contact isolation. We hope that this change provides some relief to those students who have recently tested positive for COVID-19.
Finally, Cyprus just informed our ship that any voyagers who test positive or are identified as a close contact en route to or in Cyprus will quarantine on the MV World Odyssey. Please know that each port country determines the location and duration of all coronavirus quarantines. Our next port, Croatia, has indicated that positive cases will be disembarked and quarantined for 10 days. These guidelines are changing quickly, and at times, port countries adjust practices upon our arrival. We will continue to keep you and your voyager apprised of the expected protocols.
