Boutique river company, Uniworld has introduced stringent health and safety procedures across its fleet in preparation for when its safe to cruise the world’s waterways again.

“The world has changed and as we start to welcome guests just beginning to step back into travel, we want them to know that we understand and are anticipating their concern and taking careful and deliberate steps to protect their safety, health and wellbeing – which will come in the form of a broad smile instead of a handshake,” says Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld.

The new health protocols include:

  • Every guest must now complete health screening before embarkation.
  • All coffee table books, magazines and brochures have been removed for public use. Instead guests will be able to access reading materials via a complimentary Press Reader app on their personal devices
  • Disinfectant wipes will be readily available throughout the ship including coffee stations and public restrooms
  • Treats such as fruits, cookies, chips, nuts and candies will no longer be available for self-service. Instead crew members will serve the treats individually to guests.
  • Restaurant dining will have reserved seating with the same guests seated at the same table every day.
  • Bread and butter which were previously shared will now be served individually to each person
  • Gloves, face masks and hand sanitisers will be available to guests
  • Excursion buses will have fewer people with the total number to be reduced

Ms Bettridge said that Uniworld’s stringent health protocol for crew has also been introduced with additional training on health and hygiene to be given to all crew. In addition, crew members will have to undergo regular health screening and adhere to social distancing. All public and private crew quarters will be sanitised regularly and self-service meals will no longer be allowed with crew meals to be served instead.

“Consistently reviewing our policies to improve and enhance the safety and wellbeing of our guests is part of our DNA. What’s important right now, is the speed at which we’re able to act on new information, particularly from local authorities where we cruise,” Ms Bettridge added.

Uniworld river ships can accommodate a total of 130 guests, offering cruises in Europe, Russia, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, India, Peru and Egypt on 25 rivers in 25 countries.

For more information, visit Uniworld.com/Health-Safety.