New supplementary framework on restarting river cruise ship operations in the Netherlands - RIVM
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New supplementary framework on restarting river cruise ship operations in the Netherlands July 2021 Version 2.3 / 15 July 2021 Drawn up by the municipal health services (GGDs) of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Kennemerland, in cooperation with the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) AVT/VWS-210715-001B 2
Contents Introduction ............................................................................................2 Risk management....................................................................................2 Audits ......................................................................................................3 Tasks and responsibilities of the cruise ship operator in the area of prevention ...............................................................................................4 Vaccination and test policy ........................................................................................... 4 Maritime Declaration of Health (MDOH) ..................................................................... 5 Tasks and responsibilities of the cruise ship operator in the event of a suspected case ........................................................................................6 Tasks and responsibilities of the cruise ship operator in the event of a confirmed case ........................................................................................7 Tasks and responsibilities of the local GGD .............................................8 Annexe 1 Explanatory list of terms ............................................................................. 9 Annexe 2 Summary of Health Gateways guidance document Advice for restarting river cruise ship operations after lifting restrictive measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This advice will shortly be updated on a number of points. ......................................................................................................... 11 AVT/VWS-210715-001B 3
Introduction
In 2020, in the run-up to the resumption of cruise ship operations (including river
cruises), the Dutch municipal health services and port authorities drew up a
supplementary framework for cruise ships applicable to passenger ships that call at
Dutch ports during their cruise. This framework identifies the individual tasks and
responsibilities of the various parties in the event of infections on board a cruise ship.
In addition, the industry itself has drawn up a protocol: the Guideline for a Minimum
Standard for the Resumption of River Cruises in Europe under COVID-19, produced by
industry organisations the European Barge Union (EBU) and IG River Cruise.
Further to the procedures agreed in 2020 the supplementary framework has been
revised. Since river cruises are to be restarted sooner than sea cruises, the decision was
made to tailor this new supplementary framework specifically to river cruises, and to
draw up a dedicated supplementary framework for sea cruises at a later date. This new
supplementary framework on restarting river cruise ship operations in the Netherlands is
a dynamic document. It can be amended on the basis of, for example, epidemiological
developments, vaccination policy and arrangements at European level.
The new supplementary framework takes account of the experiences gained over the
past year. It also explains in clearer detail how responsibilities should be allocated and
what Dutch facilities will and will not be available to cruise ships.
The applicable rules are based on the Generic Framework for Coronavirus Measures, the
basic COVID-19 rules, the government’s plan for reopening society and the Healthy
Gateways guidance document, ‘Advice for restarting river cruise ship operations after
lifting restrictive measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic’. This supplementary
framework is applicable in the Netherlands. It clarifies and supplements the framework
for river cruise operations in the Netherlands.
• Dutch Generic Framework for Coronavirus Measures - Generic Framework for
Coronavirus Measures | RIVM
• Plan for reopening society | Coronavirus COVID-19 | Government.nl
• Interim advice for restarting river cruise ship operations after lifting
restrictive measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic – to be
published shortly at COVID-19 (healthygateways.eu)
• Interim Guidance for Preparedness and Response to Cases of COVID-19 at
Points of Entry in the European Union (EU/EEA Member States (MS) EU
Healthy Gateways - COVID-19 (healthygateways.eu)
General information on coronavirus and Dutch measures to prevent its
spread:
• Basic rules to prevent the spread of coronavirus | Coronavirus COVID-19 |
Government.nl
• Travelling to the Netherlands from abroad: mandatory negative test results
| Government.nl
Risk management
In order to minimise health and safety risks, the cruise ship operator must implement a
package of preventive measures on board the ship and a policy must be in place for a
situation in which infections occur during the cruise. It must be possible for suspected
cases to be isolated on board and for those who have been in close contact with infected
2
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Version 2.3 / 15 July 2021persons to be placed in onboard quarantine before they can be evacuated from the ship
at the earliest opportunity. In addition, facilities must be in place to test individuals with
suspected cases as soon as possible.
It is important to be alert and prepared, even if the epidemiological situation seems
encouraging. A sudden spike in infections remains a possibility, even if part of the
population has been vaccinated. Compared with last year, testing opportunities and
facilities have been greatly expanded, providing scope to prevent outbreaks or detect
them at an early stage.
EU advice from Healthy Gateways
Healthy Gateways, the European partnership initiated by the European Commission, with
28 participating countries, recently published a guidance document on restarting river
cruise ship operations after lifting restrictive measures in response to the COVID-19
pandemic. The document sets out measures aimed at ensuring a safe resumption of river
cruise operations, from preparation and bookings, deployment of testing and
vaccinations and preventive measures on board the ship to necessary agreements and
preparations for isolation, quarantine and repatriation in the event of infections on board.
The new supplementary framework contains references to this guidance document. In
the Netherlands, the Healthy Gateways guidance document is the government’s point of
departure when it comes to the level and applicability of river cruise operators’ own
protocols. An overview of the items elaborated in the guidance document is appended to
this new supplementary framework as an annexe.
The new supplementary framework on restarting river cruise ship operations in the
Netherlands is intended for cruise operators, health and port authorities and GGDs. It
contains the parameters and supplemental arrangements for efforts to prevent and limit
infections on board a river cruise ship. It contains no substantive recommendations on
preventive measures to be taken by operators on board river cruise ships. Such
recommendations are provided in the Healthy Gateways guidance document.
The continually changing situation warrants the regular revision of the new
supplementary framework on restarting river cruises in the Netherlands. For this reason,
the new supplementary framework will not be disseminated in document form, but will
be henceforth be available on the RIVM website, where it will be regularly updated. In
the event of amendments to national legislation it is nevertheless important to closely
follow the information provided by central government.
The norms adhered to in this framework are summarised in annexe 2. Please note: at
the time of version 2.1's publication, the definitive version of the Healthy Gateways
European guidance document has not yet been published. After it is published annexe 2
will be updated.
Audits
From mid-June 2021 audits of river cruise ships will be conducted on a random basis, as
in 2020. Auditors will look at the extent to which operators’ own COVID-19 protocols are
appropriate and up to date, whether those protocols are adequate in practice, and
whether their plans are sufficiently tailored to the facilities available in the Netherlands.
Ships will be assessed against the new supplementary framework and the Healthy
Gateways norms.
The cruise ship operators and relevant government ministries will be informed of the
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Version 2.3 / 15 July 2021audit findings. If serious shortcomings are identified, the local authority may impose a
measure on the basis of the Public Health Act.
Tasks and responsibilities of the cruise ship operator in the area of prevention
• Every cruise ship (or tour) operator must have implemented a COVID-19
prevention plan for all its ships. For more information on what this means in
practice, see Annexe 2 Summary of Health Gateways guidance document.
• For every cruise, the cruise ship (or tour) operator must acquaint itself with the
current applicable rules regarding COVID-19 in the Netherlands and ensure that
all measures applicable to anyone entering the country are followed by crew and
passengers alike (see annexe 2, Prerequisite 1).
• The Dutch guidelines and restrictions on the admission of individuals from
outside the EU must be followed. For the latest situation see: European entry
ban on travellers from outside the EU | Coronavirus COVID-19 | Government.nl
There may be a quarantine requirement for people entering the Netherlands
from another country. This requirement may soon be lifted if vaccination
coverage increases and the number of infections worldwide decreases.
- Crew members and passengers coming from a high-risk country (colour
code: orange) must remain in quarantine for 10 days, either on board the
ship or before boarding the ship (for example in a hotel). If a traveller tests
negative for coronavirus on day 5, this quarantine period can be shortened.
• Before boarding commences, the ship or tour operator must perform a health
check of every passenger and crew member, pursuant to item B.3 of annexe 2.
In the event of infections on board the ship the GGD may, for the purpose of
source and contact tracing, request information concerning the health checks
conducted.
• The cruise ship operator and tour operator are responsible for ensuring that the
information on board the ship is always up to date and applies to the relevant
area of operation and ports of call.
Vaccination and test policy
• Holders of a valid EU Digital COVID Certificate do not have to undergo
additional testing or be placed in quarantine prior to boarding.
• The ship (or tour) operator must establish a testing policy that ensures that
anyone boarding the ship who is unable to produce such a certificate
possesses a recent negative test result (i.e. a test result no older than 72
hours). The test must be a validated PCR or other nucleic acid
amplification test (NAAT) (see annexe 2, Operational Standards section, items
3 and 4).
• Anyone boarding who is unvaccinated and does not have a certificate of
COVID-19 recovery must be retested three or four days after boarding. This
can be done on board provided the test is carried out by or under the
supervision of a designated staff member whose has received specific
training/instruction. It must be possible to demonstrate that the test or rapid
test used has been validated in an EU member state (see annexe 2, item A7
(see annexe 2, A7).
• In the event that onshore excursions take place during the cruise, any
participants must also be retested on the fourth day after being onshore.
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Version 2.3 / 15 July 2021• In accordance with the Healthy Gateways guidance document, operators are
strongly advised to sail with a fully vaccinated crew and to ensure the highest
possible level of vaccination coverage among the passengers (see annexe 2,
Operational Standards section, B.1.1 and B.2.1). Insufficient vaccination
coverage poses a risk of onboard outbreaks, irrespective of any other
measures that may be taken.
• The GGD does not issue non-COVID declarations for passengers or departing crew
members returning home. These are provided by commercial parties.
In mid-June 2021, a vaccination campaign will begin in the Netherlands for seafarers
on ships sailing under a Dutch flag or under Dutch management. However, this
campaign is currently aimed at those parts of the maritime sector which (unlike the
cruise industry) play a crucial role in the logistics chain, and is restricted to seafarers, a
category that does not include river cruise ship personnel.
Maritime Declaration of Health (MDOH)
In the Netherlands the arrangements for the submission of a Maritime Declaration of
Health are as follows.
• Prior to arrival in the Netherlands, a declaration of health must be sent to
mdoh@rivm.nl. The declaration of health may be drawn up in accordance with the
World Health Organization (WHO) model document format, or may be supplied in
an amended format which in any event contains the following information:
- the ship’s details (name, contact details, ports of departure and destination,
date of passenger embarkation and disembarkation, number of passengers and
crew members on board);
- the ship's sailing schedule (including ports visited in the past two weeks);
- health-related questions (are there any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-
19 on board; have there recently been any cases of infectious disease on board;
has there been any contact with a doctor or local health service).
If the answer to one or more of the health-related questions is ‘yes’, RIVM will
forward the health declaration to the local GGD of the next port or berthing point.
The GGD will then consider what action needs to be taken and will inform the port
authorities and ship's captain accordingly (see annexe 2, B.23.2).
• If, in the course of a river cruise, one or more confirmed cases occur, a new
MDOH must immediately be sent to mdoh@rivm.nl (see annexe 2, B.23.2).
• In addition, the person responsible on board must contact the GGD of the next
(or current) port. For GGD contact details, see Home - GGD.
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Version 2.3 / 15 July 2021Tasks and responsibilities of the cruise ship operator in the event of a
suspected case
• The cruise ship (or tour) operator must have implemented a plan for each
ship covering the isolation of infected persons and the quarantine of those
who have had close contact with infected persons on board and/or onshore.
The plan must take into account that multiple people may be affected. For
more information on what this means in practice, see Annexe 2
Summary of Health Gateways guidance document).
• On each ship the operator must be able to place 1% of all persons on board
(passengers and crew) in individual isolation or quarantine, and must reserve
suitable space for this purpose. If fewer than 90% of the persons on board
have been vaccinated, suitable space must be available on board for the
isolation or quarantine of 5% of the total number of persons on board (see
annexe 2, A.10.2).
• Any person who meets the case definition of a suspected case of COVID-19
must immediately be placed in individual onboard isolation in a location with its
own bathroom/toilet facilities.
• The cruise ship (or tour) operator must call the national telephone number
(+31 800 1202) or visit https://www.ggd.nl to request a test. A test can be
requested in the port where the ship is currently located or, if the ship is
currently en route, in the next port of call.
• If tests are conducted by a commercial party, any positive test results must
be communicated to the local GGD (see annexe 2, A.6.4).
• The cruise ship operator must take measures to obtain medical advice. The
operator must be able to obtain such advice around the clock. Crew
members must be aware of who to contact for medical advice (see annexe 2,
A.3.2).
• The cruise ship operator must arrange the transportation of persons on board
the ship to the onshore test centre or medical/GP service. Before any
transfer to a test centre or medical/GP service, the operator must always
first contact the GGD to discuss what action should be taken (see annexe 2,
A.3.1).
• The GGD will advise on the next steps regarding quarantine and isolation
(either on board or onshore) and the continuation of the cruise. The cruise
ship operator must coordinate its actions with the GGD.
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Version 2.3 / 15 July 2021Tasks and responsibilities of the cruise ship operator in the event of a
confirmed case
• The cruise ship operator must have an onshore isolation/quarantine location
available within 24 hours of a positive test result for confirmed cases and
individuals who have been in close contact with infected persons. The operator
must make prior agreements for this purpose (for example, with a travel
organisation, hotel, etc.). The hotel concerned must be able to facilitate the
isolation of multiple individuals and must take appropriate preventive
measures. The cruise ship operator remains responsible for the welfare of the
individuals concerned and the practical implementation of their isolation or
quarantine onshore (see annexe 2, Prerequisite 5).
• The cruise ship operator must inform the local GGD about this location (hotel),
who will monitor the infected persons, and which doctor/medical service is to
be engaged.
• In the event of an outbreak the GGD will estimate, in consultation with the
captain, whether isolation/quarantine on board or onshore is required.
• The cruise ship operator must arrange the transportation of persons to and
from the medical/GP service or test centre, taking due account of necessary
safety measures, such as suitable personal protective equipment.
• The cruise ship operator must arrange the safe transportation of those in
isolation/quarantine on board to the isolation/quarantine location onshore. In
this connection the operator must take into account that individuals with
confirmed cases, individuals with suspected cases and individuals who have
been in close contact with such persons may not be transported at the same
time (see annexe 2, A.5.4).
• If the GGD wishes to board the ship in order to obtain more information
and assess the situation on board, the captain/cruise operator must
cooperate.
• The GGD will advise on the next steps and the continuation of the cruise.
The cruise ship operator will coordinate its actions with the GGD.
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7Tasks and responsibilities of the local GGD
• GGDs, safety regions and port authorities must ensure that rapid and effective
action is taken in the event of a positive test result.
• The local GGD must make a contact person available to the ship to provide
practical support and advice during the ship’s time in port.
• Contact tracing will take place in the Netherlands on the basis of information
concerning contacts over the two days prior to the emergence of initial
symptoms. The GGD will contact the captain to obtain the details of
personnel and passengers and provide information.
• If the cruise ship operator is Dutch, its health, safety and welfare service
(Arbodienst) will carry out some of the tasks relating to any crew members
who have fallen ill.
The contact details of local GGDs can be found at https://www.ggd.nl/.
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8Annexe 1 Explanatory list of terms
Case definition
Description of symptoms prevalent in a disease (in this case, COVID-19).
Common symptoms of COVID-19:
• cold symptoms (such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat)
• a cough
• shortness of breath
• a raised temperature or a fever
• sudden loss of smell and/or taste (without congestion)
For the latest information see the website of the National Coordination Structure
for Infectious Disease Control (LCI).
SARS-CoV-2
The new coronavirus. The acronym stands for Severe acute respiratory syndrome-
coronavirus-2
Patient with confirmed case
Anyone in whom infection with SARS-CoV-2 has been established by means of a
validated PCR or other nucleic acid amplification test, or an antigen (rapid) test
validated in the Netherlands. Visit the LCI website for the latest definition.
If a self-test produces a positive result, a further test must be performed with a
validated PCR or other nucleic acid amplification test, or an antigen (rapid) test
validated in the Netherlands. In the interest of safety the individual who may be
infected must immediately be isolated (with the exception of the journey to the test
location).
Patient with suspected case
Anyone who has symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
Close contact
A close-contact individual is anyone who in the period from 2 days before the emergence
of symptoms to 24 hours after the end of symptoms in a patient with a confirmed case
has had one or more of the following levels of exposure:
• Anyone staying in the same cabin/suite as the patient with a suspected or
confirmed case of COVID-19.
• Anyone who, within a 24-hour period, was in contact with the patient with a
confirmed case during their contagious period for a total of longer than 15
minutes at a distance of less than 1.5 metres.
• In a situation of high-risk exposure for a period of less than 15
minutes (e.g. coughing in someone’s face or direct physical contact,
such as kissing), the person will also be considered a close-contact
individual.
Visit the LCI website for the latest definition.
Maritime Declaration of Health
Document containing details about the state of health on board a ship during its passage
and on arrival in port. It is a tool for the early identification of public health risks. The
International Health Regulations contain a model document for a Maritime Declaration of
Health. In the Netherlands, an alternative format is permitted, provided it contains: - the
ship’s details (name, contact details, ports of departure and destination, date of
passenger embarkation and disembarkation, number of passengers and crew members
on board).
- the ship's sailing schedule (including ports visited in the past two weeks).
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9- health-related questions (are there any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19 on
board; have there recently been any cases of infectious disease on board; has there
been any contact with a doctor or local health service.)
Isolation and quarantine
Isolation is required in respect of both individuals with a suspected case of COVID-19
(i.e. symptomatic individuals awaiting a test result) and individuals with a confirmed
case. Quarantine is intended for people who have had close contact with individuals with
suspected or confirmed cases but who (as yet) have no symptoms.
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10Annexe 2 Summary of Health Gateways guidance document Advice for restarting river
cruise ship operations after lifting restrictive measures in response to the COVID-19
pandemic. This advice will shortly be updated on a number of points.
PART A – Essential Prerequisites
Prerequisite 1 Monitoring of epidemiological situation, rules and restrictions worldwide
A.1.1 River cruise ship operator monitors information on the situation regarding borders, travel
restrictions, travel advice, public health measures and safety measures at the destination ports.
A.1.2 River cruise ship operator monitors information on the situation regarding borders, travel
restrictions, travel advice, public health measures and safety measures in the countries from which
passengers originate.
A.1.3 River cruise ship operator monitors information on the situation regarding borders, travel
restrictions, travel advice, public health measures and safety measures in the countries from which
crew members originate.
A.1.4 River cruise ship operator follows national guidelines and restrictions when passengers or crew travel
from a different country. The cruise operator has clearly identified the rules regarding the reception
of people from outside the EU / Schengen area in advance.
Prerequisite 2 Contingency plan/outbreak management plan & Interoperability with the port plan
A.2.1 The written contingency plan/outbreak management plan for responding to COVID-19 event is
available.
A.2.2 The plan has been offered to a competent authority of at least one of the ports of call in every
country along the projected route to verify interoperability with the port public health emergency
contingency plan. This is the responsibility of the river cruise ship operator. A review from a port
authority is not obligatory.
A.2.3 The river cruise ship operator has established contacts with at least one port authority in every
country along the projected route that is available to communicate with the river cruise ship industry
about health matters. This port provides primary contact details (24/7) and is available for advice in
case of on-board public health events and can refer the ship to a port that can provide assistance.
The port also provides direct contact information to authorities and public health departments along
the route.
A.2.4 The contingency plan/outbreak management plan includes transport plans hygiene protocols, and
other content as described in the interim advice document as the name of relevant (travel) agencies
who can arrange transport, housing etc.
A.2.5 This plan is the responsibility of the river cruise ship operator. A review from a port authority is not
necessary.
Prerequisite 3 Arrangements for medical treatment and ambulance services
A.3.1 River cruise ship operator has made arrangements for transportation of passengers to a medical or
testing facility. This can be either with a (local) taxi company or with a company or port agency that
arranges transport when requested.
A.3.2 If there is no medical doctor on board, then the river cruise operator has ensured that the crew on
board is able to contact medical doctors ashore for consultation.
Prerequisite 4 Arrangements for repatriation
A.4.1 Repatriation plans for passengers and crew members are available for review.
A.4.2 Repatriation plans consider different scenarios for partial or complete ship evacuation in the event of
a COVID-19 outbreak.
A.4.3 Criteria for allowing repatriation and air travel have been considered.
A.4.4 Airline public health policies and public health policies of home countries should be considered.
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11Prerequisite 5 Arrangements for quarantine of close contacts (exposed passengers or crew members with
negative RT-PCR test results for SARS-CoV-2)
A.5.1 River cruise ship operator has made arrangements for quarantine facilities. This can be either with a
(local) company, port or travel agency that arranges quarantine facilities when requested.
A.5.2 The competent authorities are informed of the number and nature if the facilities available for
quarantine.
A.5.3 Procedures are in place for managing close contacts and include disembarkation and different
scenarios with the expected number of persons to be quarantined.
A.5.4 Contacts with transport companies (busses/taxi) are available. If necessary also temporary
accommodations (hotels) should be contracted. This can be either with a (local) company or with a
company or port agency that arranges transport when requested.
Prerequisite 6 Arrangements for isolation of passengers or crew members positive for SARS-CoV-2
A.6.1 Facilities for temporary isolation on board have been pre-specified for
symptomatic/asymptomatic/pre-symptomatic infected travellers with positive test results for SARS-
CoV-2.
A.6.2 Each person is isolated in a separate cabin (one person-one cabin) with a private bathroom.
A.6.3 Isolation procedures include disembarkation and different scenarios according to the expected
number of persons to be isolated.
A.6.4 Any positive test result is reported to the port authority and the public health service.
Prerequisite 7 Adequate testing capacity for SARS-CoV-2 infection on board or in cooperation with shore-
based laboratories
A.7.1 River cruise ship operator has contracted a shore-based laboratory or has a competent facility
onboard (A.7.2). The arrangement with the laboratory is made with an agency or directly with a
laboratory along the route.
A.7.2 When the river cruise ship operator has decided to enable onboard testing, the following applies:
- A predetermined testing location is designated on board.
- The method of testing is approved in the current country.
- Testing is carried out by trained crew members.
- There is separate waste disposal of test material.
Prerequisite 8 Training of crew about COVID-19
A.8.1 Training plan and records are available for review for all crew working on board.
A.8.2 Crew members are aware of the contents of the contingency plan.
A.8.3 Crew is instructed in physical distancing measures, managing crowds, respiratory etiquette,
ventilation in closed rooms, use of PPE and cleaning and disinfection protocols.
A.8.4 Crew is instructed in recognition of the signs and symptoms compatible with COVID-19.
A.8.5 Crew is instructed to report symptoms compatible with COVID-19 for both themselves and other
crew members or passengers. If they develop symptoms they do not come to work and immediately
self-isolate.
A.8.6 Crew is trained on the procedure that should be followed when a passenger or a crew member
displays signs and symptoms indicative of COVID-19.
A.8.7 Crew knows how to act in case of an outbreak and can properly use personal protective equipment
(PPE).
A.8.8 Each member of the crew should be trained in their role and responsibilities to implement measures
as per the contingency plan/outbreak management plan.
A.8.9 Dedicated crew is able to carry out testing for SARS-CoV-2 as well as storage and transport of the
samples.
Prerequisite 9 Commitment for immediate reporting to the next port of call of any possible case
A.9.1 The home port is 24/7 available to assist in establishing contacts.
A.9.2 Written and clearly defined procedures are agreed upon and implemented for immediate reporting
through a Maritime Declaration of Health to the port/health authority at the next port of call.
A.9.3 Review records to document active surveillance of possible COVID-19 cases and immediate reporting
to the next port of call.
Prerequisite 10 Estimation of the maximum number of passengers and crew on board cruise ships
A.10.1 The number of passengers and crew on board has been reduced ensuring that physical distancing
measures are maintained.
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12A.10.2 river cruise ship operator operators have ensured that they are able to individually and temporarily
isolate or quarantine (in a single cabin) possible COVID-19 cases/contacts:
5% of total persons on board.
A.10.3 The maximum number of crew members living in the same cabin and/or sharing a bathroom should
not be more than 2 persons. The river cruise operator accommodates each crewmember in a
separate cabin wherever possible, reducing the risk of new infections.
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13PART B – Operational standards
Number Indicator
Item 1 Prevention of COVID-19 passenger’s from starting holidays
B.1.1 Passengers are advised to be vaccinated at least three weeks prior to the voyage. Vaccinated
passengers hold an official proof of vaccination.
B.1.2 Passengers who have travelled from abroad to the country of embarkation, comply with the
requirements for incoming travellers to the country of embarkation
B.1.3 Anyone who has been in contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19 or anyone who is tested
positive for SARS-CoV-2 is not accepted on board the river cruise.
B.1.4 Passengers in high-risk groups or with underlying medical conditions are advised to visit a
doctor for pre-travel medical consultation and area advised to be vaccinated before travelling.
B.1.5 Crew members in high-risk groups work in positions where there is little or no interaction with
other individuals and use advanced respiratory protection.
Item 2 Crew vaccination and testing
B.2.1 Crew members are vaccinated against COIVD-19. Vaccinated crew members should hold an
official proof of vaccination
B.2.2 Crew members that are already on board the river cruise ships have been tested with T-PCR or
other NAAT for SARS-CoV-2.
Incoming crew members are tested for SARS-CoV-2 with RT-PCR or other NAAT, within 72 hours
before arrival on the river cruise ship.
All crew undergo a RT-PCR or RADT the day of embarkation.
Incoming crew members coming from non-EU countries should be quarantined on board or
ashore for 10 days and then be tested with RT-PCR or other NAAT at the end of the quarantine.
The rest of the incoming crew should be quarantined and according to the national public
health authority regulations
B.2.3 Crew members are tested with RT-PCR or other NAAT every 7 days
Item 3 Measures to prevent COVID-19 infectious travellers (passengers and crew) from boarding river
cruise ships
B.3.1 The river cruise ship operator implements pre-boarding screening measures as a two-step
process: primary screening and secondary screening
B.3.2 Primary screening includes pre-boarding testing. It is supported by completion of health
screening questionnaires.
B.3.3 Secondary screening is recommended and carried out by personnel with public health, medical
or tailor-made training. This includes observing travellers for any signs of infectious disease.
Upon re-boarding of the river cruise ship, health screening assessing the presence of COVID-19
symptoms or other relevant illnesses is carried out. Contactless temperature measurements
may be conducted and a more in-depth medical questionnaire can be used.
B.3.4 There is a standard policy for denial of boarding to any exposed or symptomatic possible case
among passengers and crew.
B.3.5 Data Protection Legislation (GDPR) is followed for any personal data collected from individuals.
B.3.6 All passengers undergo an RT-PCR or other NAAT or RADT the day of embarkation
Item 4 Health monitoring
B.4.1 The temperature of all passengers and crew may be taken daily.
B.4.2 All passengers should undergo a RT-PCR or RADT the third or fourth day of the river cruise
B.4.3 Surveillance for influenza like illness (ILI) should integrate COVID-19 surveillance, as symptoms
compatible with COVID-19 include those for ILI.
Item 5 Communication plan, website, electronic reservation system and other means of communication
B.5.1 All relevant information about the exclusion policy, as well as any pre-requisites and country
specific rules are provided to passengers.
B.5.2 All materials are available in the national language, English and, where needed, other languages
based on the most common language profiles of the passengers travelling.
B.5.3 The communication plan should cover processes related to ticketing, at pre-arrival, at the
terminal, on board, as well as the procedures in case of a COVID-19 event.
B.5.4 Travel information contains information regarding the symptoms of COVID-19, the importance
of preventive measures and recommended personal hygiene items to carry.
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14B.5.5 The ticketing process should include information regarding the latest health and safety
considerations, including those posed by COVID-19. During the ticketing process passengers
should be informed about eligibility requirements.
B.5.6 Before travelling, and, if applicable, regularly during the voyage, all relevant information is
provided to passengers and crew members.
B.5.7 Passengers and crew are informed on all preventive measures including hand hygiene
instructions, respiratory etiquette and use of face masks.
Item 6 Cleaning and disinfection
B.6.1 Enhanced cleaning and disinfection is implemented in accordance with the most recent EU
HEALTHY GATEWAYS guidance on “Suggested procedures for cleaning and disinfection of ships
during the COVID-19 pandemic (Version 2 – 20/04/2020)”.
Item 7 Storage facilities
B.7.1 There are adequate and sufficient supplies of disinfectants and hand hygiene supplies, tissues,
face masks and no-touch bins for waste disposal.
Item 8 Embarkation / disembarkation facilities
B.8.1 Disinfectants and hand hygiene supplies are available.
B.8.2 Stations with alcohol-based hand rub solutions are available. All persons disembarking and re-
embarking are requested to use them.
B.8.3 Physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres is maintained. If not possible masks are used. The
crew oversees the process and compliance with physical distancing.
B.8.4 If possible multiple gangways are used.
B.8.5 Face mask are worn by passengers and crew according to Annex 1.
B.8.6 Masks are available for passengers that did not bring their own.
B.8.8 Passenger/Crew Locator Forms could be disseminated before boarding or during boarding and
collected by cruise ship crew prior to disembarkation.
B.8.9 It is suggested that the Passenger/Crew Locator Forms for ships also be completed by all crew
members who disembark for their long term leave.
Item 9 On board medical facilities
B.9.1 A specific location on board is reserved for medical and testing operations. This could be a
passenger cabin.
Item 10 Crew cabins and crew work areas
B.10.1 All crew designated to work with identified possible/confirmed COVID-19 cases ideally have
cabins in similar locations and dine together as a group.
Item 11 Public toilets and bathrooms
B.11.1 Exhaust fans of bathrooms operate continuously.
B.11.2 Public sanitary facilities are cleaned regularly.
B.11.3 There are special floor markings at all possible congestion points.
Item 12 Control room/Engine room
B.12.1 If technically possible, the air handling units should be switched from recirculation to 100%
outside air. Alternatively HEPA filters or Ultraviolet Germicidal Irradiation may be used.
B.12.2 The potable water system has been disinfected according to the steps described in “ESGLI
Guidance for managing Legionella in building water systems during the COVID-19 pandemic”.
Item 13 Cabins
B.13.1 Cabins are thoroughly cleaned and adequately ventilated between check out and check in.
B.13.2 There are no items that cannot be cleaned and disinfected.
B.13.3 There are no equipment and products in the cabin unless these are offered from a dispenser or
can be cleaned.
B.13.4 The minibar is cleaned after each check out.
B.13.5 The TV and air-conditioner remotes are covered with a disposable cover unless these items can
be easily and adequately cleaned.
B.13.6 All types of surfaces and materials which may be touched, including TV remote controls and
textile surfaces are cleaned between occupancies.
B.13.7 Clothing and towels have been changed upon passenger’s request or routinely. Routine
changes should be less frequent than normal.
B.13.8 Passengers have been encouraged to open outside doors and windows.
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15B.13.9 Cabins are equipped with individual alcohol-based hand rub.
Item 14 Food service area
B.14.1 Congestion and queueing are avoided at buffets and dining facilities.
B.14.2 Physical distance should be maintained.
B.14.3 Only persons staying in the same cabin and/or persons from the same household or same
travelling unit dine at the same table.
B.14.4 A distance of 1.5 metres between chairs of different tables should be maintained.
B.14.5 Crew and passengers are divided into cohorts and are served at different times. In addition,
limiting seating capacities in dining areas or using reservations to control passenger crowds
could be implemented.
B.14.6 Passengers disinfect their hands upon entering and exiting the food service areas. Crew
members are present to monitor passenger compliance.
B.14.7 Towels, tablecloths and utensils should be washed. Restaurant linen should always be changed
between passengers.
B.14.8 In case of buffet service:
• Passengers and crew should be provided with alcohol-based hand rub solution.
• Physical distances are maintained.
•
• Self-service is not allowed
• Wall mounted island type buffets have stanchions at 1.5 meters, and assisted services are
offered only by designated crew.
• Only designated crew is allowed to serve food. Crew serving food wears appropriate PPE
and follows strict hygiene rules.
• Only designated crew has access and can distribute utensils.
• Self-service of dispensed items, plates, cutlery and utensils is not allowed. Crew
serving food wears appropriate PPE and follows strict hygiene rules.
Item 15 Room service
B.15.1 Crew maintains appropriate physical distancing and uses PPE.
B.15.2 Room service items and utensils that have been used by passengers should be collected safely.
B.15.3 Crew avoid entering the cabin and deliver the food to the door.
B.15.4 Used plates and utensils are collected from outside the door.
Item 16 Galley
B.16.1 Crew working in the galley should keep physical distance of 1.5 metres.
B.16.2 All persons entering the galley wash their hands and wear a face mask.
B.16.3 Visitors should perform hand hygiene and wear appropriate PPE.
Item 17 Reception, bookings, orders and purchases
B.17.1 On-line bookings, orders and purchases and the use of contactless cards for payments should
be encouraged. Electronic alternatives of check-in and check-out are preferred.
B.17.2 Protective screens or barriers may be used where face-to-face interaction without physical
distancing cannot be avoided.
B.17.3 Reception is able to provide passengers with details about the policies and measures taken on
board.
B.17.4 There are alcohol-based hand rub solutions at the reception desk.
B.17.5 Special equipment is available (e.g. disposable gloves, face masks, and alcohol-based hand rub
solutions).
B.17.6 The reception desks/counters and the key cards are regularly cleaned.
B.17.7 Physical distancing is maintained in the reception area.
B.17.8 Reception staff monitors and encourages compliance with good hand hygiene in the reception
area.
B.17.9 Reception may be able to provide PPE when requested.
Item 18 Public spaces and facilities
B.18.1 Public spaces should have hand rub alcohol-based solution for the passengers.
B.18.2 At waiting areas, physical distancing of at least 1.5 metres is maintained. If not possible masks
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16should be used.
B.18.3 At sitting areas, there are special markings on where a passenger is and is not allowed to sit.
B.18.4 Furniture should be arranged in such a way to help avoid overcrowding (4 persons/10 m2).
B.18.5 The air flow of the ventilation is not directed to groups of passengers.
B.18.6 It is preferred to open shops by appointment only. Shoppers are encouraged not to handle
items on display and clothes are not tried on.
B.18.7 Payments are made electronically.
B.18.8 Cleaning is routinely followed.
B.18.9 Crew members should monitor compliance of hand hygiene
B.18.10 There are signs at the entrance informing passengers of the maximum capacity, advising them
to apply alcohol-based hand rub solutions, not to touch their face and to respect physical
distancing.
B.18.11 There are special floor marking at all possible congestion points. Preferred one-way routing is
indicated.
Item 17 Hairdressers, beauty salons and gyms
B.19.1 Overcrowding of the shared facilities is prevented Operating procedures include: pre-booking
systems, timed appointments and record keeping
B.19.2 The gym operates using a ratio of 1 person per 10 m² per usable floor surface space.
B.19.3 Operating procedures include: pre-booking systems, timed appointments, staggered and
extended service times to help control the flow of individuals.
B.19.4 Physical distance of 1.5meters is maintained between users and between equipment
B.19.5 Masks are warn at all times except while performing high-intensity exercises.
Item 20 Recreational water facilities
B.20.1 Showers of the facilities are separated.
B.20.2 The maximum allowable number of bathers at any time is one bather per 4 m 2 of water surface.
B.20.3 Small hot tubs (with depth less than 1 m and tub volume less than 6 m 3) should be used only by
bathers of the same household or by bathers staying in the same cabin at a time.
B.20.4 The recreational water facilities were disinfected according to the steps described in “ESGLI
Guidance for managing Legionella in building water systems during the COVID-19 pandemic”.
Item 21 Nursery and play areas for children
B.21.1 Outdoor play areas should be preferred.
B.21.2 The number of children using indoor areas is reduced and physical distancing is maintained.
B.21.3 The number of children in outdoor play areas should be limited and cohorting should be
considered.
B.21.4 The areas are cleaned.
Item 22 Isolation spaces
B.22.1 The designated cabins should be located near the ship’s dedicated medical facility. Otherwise
locate the cabins near the end of a passenger corridor.
B.22.2 Crew in contact with the isolated patient should wear appropriate PPE.
B.22.3 Children are quarantined in the cabin with one of their parents. Similar considerations are
made to support those with special needs.
Item 23 Reporting
B.23.1 The officer in charge of the river cruise ship operator must immediately inform the competent
authority at the next port of call about any possible case of COVID-19.
B.23.2 For international voyages, the MDOH is completed and sent to the competent authority in case
of any symptomatic passenger or crew member, or at any port that does require submitting.
New supplementary framework on restarting river cruise ship operations in the
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