How to Sign Up for a Test Cruise – Volunteers of the Seas

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Become a Volunteer for Test Cruises

Have you been wondering how you can sign up for a trial sailing or test cruise? Ever since the CDC issued a Framework for Conditional Sailing which require trial sailings first with crew, and then with volunteers, avid cruisers have been clamoring to get onboard and serve!

While it’s been a long wait, there is great news. Royal Caribbean has received approval for test cruises to start in June!

Royal Caribbean – Volunteers of the Seas 

Royal Caribbean is the first cruise line to set up a sign up form for would-be cruise testers, aptly called “Volunteers of the Seas”. There’s even a Facebook group, with over 65,000 members!

In a recent post on the Facebook page, Royal Caribbean International said that over 250,000 loyal and supportive guests have volunteered to participate in the return to sailing test cruises.

Royal Caribbean’s First Test Cruise

The first test cruise approved by the CDC is Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas, departing from PortMiami on June 20-22, 2021.

This exciting news comes after more than a year of a cruise shutdown in the United States. Test cruises must be done for all cruises which will be sailing with a threshold of less than 95% of vaccinated passengers and 98% of crew.

Here’s a video explaining Royal Caribbean’s plans for their restart of cruising from the U.S. and what is expected in terms of the cruiseline’s vaccine requirements, as well as other helpful information.

 

What are test cruises?

As part of the process for cruises to resume in the US waters, cruise lines must conduct trial sailings, which will test out the new protocols and safety measures. They’ll test out systems  –  including testing, health screening and embarkation, dealing with emergency health situations, and disembarkation procedures. Throughout it all, there will be dining, entertainment and activities, just like a real cruise.

Who can volunteer?

All volunteers must be 18 years and over to participate as a volunteer on a test sailing. According to the CDC’s technical guidance for cruise ships, volunteer passengers must show proof of being fully vaccinated or, if not fully vaccinated, provide written documentation that they do not have a medical conditions that would be considered as high risk for severe Covid 19.

How to sign up as a volunteer test cruiser

Royal Caribbean has set up a simple form to fill out. You’ll be asked:

• Your name
• How many in your party (over 18)
• Your email address
• Your country
• Your Crown & Anchor number

Tip – make sure to have your Crown and Anchor number handy if you’re a past passenger. The form does not list this as a requirement.

Here’s the link to the form: Sign Up to be a Volunteer of the Seas

Will other cruise lines be asking for volunteers for trial sailings?

We sure hope so! When we hear from Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC and any others, you can be sure that I’ll share the info.

Would you like to volunteer to be on mock cruises? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy future cruising!

Ilana xoxo

More cruise news and updates:

The New Framework for Conditional Sailing Explained

8 Cruise Safety and Health Protocols You Must Know

Cruise Planning and Fun

50 Best Gifts for Cruisers 2020-21

10 Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Tips for Booking a Cruise for 2021 – Plus 3 Mistakes to Avoid