So close yet so far. Royal Caribbean International has, once again, postponed the debut of Odyssey of the Seas. After a simulated voyage for Royal Caribbean Employees scheduled for Late June, Odyssey was set to debut to the public on July 3, 2021. After arriving in Port Canaveral on June 4, 2021, Crew members received a vaccine that would allow them to be fully vaccinated by June 18, 2021. Unfortunately, after the latest round of COVID-19 tests, eight crew members tested positive for the Virus. "Out of an abundance of caution," Royal Caribbean Decided to delay sailings onboard Odyssey until July 31st, 2021.
The following statement issued by Michael Bayley: President and CEO, Royal Caribbean International.
"Two steps forward and one step back ! out of an abundance of caution, we are postponing Odyssey’s inaugural sailing from July 3 to July 31, 2021. A simulation cruise, originally scheduled for late June, will also be rescheduled.
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."