Holland America speeds embarkation with facial recognition and VeriFLY

mBark is a mobile system that enables passengers to check in for their cruise in less than 10 seconds, while the VeriFLY digital wallet for COVID-19 credentials is an electronic way to provide vaccination and test results.

'We recently completed testing with VeriFLY and mBark on a few sailings, and the most common comment from guests was, "That's it?" because it's so fast and efficient,' Holland America President Gus Antorcha said.

Touchless system

With mBark facial recognition, passengers who load their photo and all necessary pretravel information to Holland America's website prior to embarkation will be able to use the touchless system. Following a quick face scan, they can move through the check-in process in about 10 seconds, significantly reducing embarkation time. SKO Systems, based in London, designed and implemented mBark for HAL.

VeriFLY gives the option to upload the required information to the app, including proof of vaccination and test results, providing a way to go through the screening process prior to arrival at the terminal. Once registration is complete, cruisers simply need to show the VeriFLY QR code or 'pass' (digital or printed) to the check-in agent.

In wide use

VeriFLY is already being used by cruise lines including sister brand Carnival Cruise Line and Viking and dozens of airlines, hotels and a variety of industries. The app is available for download at Google Play and the Apple App Store.

VeriFLY launched on Rotterdam in March and will now roll out to other ships in the fleet by the end of March and begin with the remaining ships as they return to cruising. mBark also will launch with ships as they return to service and will begin in other embarkation ports as the ships move to new cruising regions.

Children under 5 may now sail

In other Holland America news, children under 5 are now permitted on all cruises. Everyone ages 5 and older must be vaccinated.