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Hapag-Lloyd Cruises to require negative SARS-CoV-19 PCR test

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is expanding its COVID-19 preventive measures. Starting Sept. 15, passengers will be required to present a negative PCR test as a precondition to embark.

Frederik Erdmann, German Correspondent

September 1, 2020

1 Min Read
CRUISE Europa 2 Hamburg
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has had a 94% customer satisfaction/recommendation rate since resuming service. Here, Europa 2 in HamburgPHOTO: HAPAG-LLOYD CRUISES

Costs are included in the travel price, and passengers will receive a voucher valid in 86 hospitals operated by Helios Kliniken throughout Germany. 

Taken within 48 hours

According to Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, passengers can visit a Helios hospital of their choice without an appointment to take the test.

The results must be received within 48 hours of embarkation. If the embarkation takes place after a weekend, the window is extended to 72 hours. Helios Kliniken will share results with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, making the procedure more convenient for passengers.

Alternatively, the travelers may arrange a PCR test independently and present the results at embarkation. To partially compensate the cost, €50 will be credited to the passenger's on-board account if they choose this option instead of the Helios Kliniken voucher. 

Positive ratings for recent cruises

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises deemed its restart a success, with positive customer feedback.

CEO Karl J. Pojer said the line's health protocols go beyond regulations. They include SARS-CoV-19 testing of the crew, passenger capacity limited to 60% and extensive disinfection of suites and public areas, among other measures.

Pojer added Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is particularly proud of the satisfaction level and recommendation rate — 94% — from passengers who've sailed since the restart.

About the Author

Frederik Erdmann

German Correspondent

Frederik Erdmann is Seatrade's German cruise correspondent since 2002. Following secondary school graduation he joined the port agency network, Sartori & Berger, on a vocational training program. After subsequent studies of Business Administration, Frederik Erdmann held various positions at Sartori & Berger until 2010. After a period of working with the Flensburg Chamber of Commerce, he was appointed Designated Person Safety/Security, Environment and Quality of the coastal ferry operator, Wyker Dampfschiffs-Reederei. As a maritime trade press correspondent and visiting lecturer of the Flensburg University of Applied Sciences,

Frederik Erdmann concentrates on ferry and cruise ship management, port development as well as safety and security in passenger shipping. He is also a member of the Flensburg Chamber of Commerce's Tourism Committee.

 

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