Cruise inaugural cancelled after 8 crew test positive for COVID
Royal Caribbean has been forced to cancel the inaugural cruise of its newest ship after eight crew members tested positive for coronavirus.
The cruise line had planned to sail their latest addition to the fleet next month, Odyssey of the Seas.
Among 1400 total staff, eight crew members were diagnosed with the virus.
Cruise bosses said that why the entirety of their staff have been vaccinated, the full effect of the vaccines would take time to work.
Michael Bayley, President & CEO of Royal Caribbean took to Facebook to speak about the cancellation of the sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
"Two steps forward and one step back!" he said.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are postponing Odyssey's inaugural sailing from July 3 to July 31, 2021.
"During routine testing, eight crew members received a positive test result for COVID-19.
"All 1,400 crew onboard Odyssey of the Seas were vaccinated on June 4th and will be considered fully vaccinated on June 18.
"The positive cases were identified after the vaccination was given and before they were fully effective.
"The eight crew members, six of whom are asymptomatic and two with mild symptoms, were quarantined and are being closely monitored by our medical team.
"To protect the remaining crew and prevent any further cases, we will have all crew quarantined for 14 days and continue with our routine testing.
"Guests and travel partners will be notified and given several options to consider.
"While disappointing, this is the right decision for the health and well-being of our crew and guests."
The new ship has more than 2000 staterooms and can host about 5500 guests.
Royal Caribbean had announced its cruises would set sail again in July.
Cruising is starting to pick up in the US and around Europe, although COVId-19 testing is mandatory.