Disney ships to require children to be fully vaccinated

Miami, Florida — According to the company announced Wednesday, Disney Cruise Lines will begin to require customers ages 5 and older to be fully vaccinated starting Jan. 13.

“As we set sail again, the health and safety of our guests, cast members, and crew members is a top priority,” the website said. “Our focus remains on operating our ships in a responsible way that continues to create magic for all on board.”

At this time, Disney requires vaccinations for cruise customers ages 12 and older.

Customers not eligible for vaccines must provide proof of negative COVID-19 tests taken between three days and 24 hours before their sail dates.

Florida remains in court defending a state law that blocks businesses from requiring customers to show proof of vaccination, or so-called “vaccine passports.”

In August a South Florida federal judge sided with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings in a challenge to the law.

The state has appealed that ruling, at the Atlanta-based 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which applied only to the cruise-ship operator.