Star Clippers announced a new set of health and safety protocols for the prevention of COVID-19 for their tall clipper ships, based on recommendations from government and health authorities. 

According to a press release, Star Clippers will no longer require passengers to be vaccinated against COVID-19, effective from the start of the winter Caribbean and Central American sailing season.

Non-vaccinated passengers will need to present a negative antigen test performed within 48 hours of the start of the journey or a negative RT-PCR test, performed within 72 hours of the journey, the company said. Tests must be administered by authorized parties and no home tests will be accepted.

Travelers who are fully vaccinated with at least all COVID-19 primary vaccines will not be required to present a negative antigen or PCR test upon embarking on the journey.

Star Clippers will require proof issued by the relevant country’s health authority.

The new COVID-19 policy is issued in conjunction with the ongoing hygiene protocols onboard such as disinfecting public areas, using air purifiers, training the staff for symptom detection and response, and other measures in accordance with the US Public Health guidelines. 

The new policy is in effect aboard the Royal Clipper starting November 5, aboard the Star Clipper from November 19, and aboard the Star Flyer from November 26, 2022.