Carnival Australia today welcomes the common-sense decision by the New South Wales Government to lift COVID-era protocols for state, domestic and international guests.
The announcement-on the eve of the opening of Australia's cruising season-is a win for the NSW economy with more than a million Australians excited to take a cruise holiday this summer in their own backyard, delivering an economic boost of $3.3 billion to the state.
Carnival Australia's Chief Strategy Officer Teresa Lloyd said the decision would bring cruising more into line with current Australian community COVID settings.
"We are pleased this decision removes the ongoing confusion that surrounds cruising for so many tourists and brings us back in step with the rest of the community, including restaurants, sporting and entertainment venues, and public transport," Ms Lloyd said.
"We look forward to other states following suit."
Ms Lloyd said Carnival Australia and its cruise lines has worked hard alongside the relevant state health authorities to ensure our ships go above and beyond when it comes to keeping guests, crew and our community safe.
"The health and safety of our guests remains our number one priority," Ms Lloyd said.
"We will continue to abide by our strict and robust hygiene standards on our ships whilst working alongside health authorities into the future."
