LOS ANGELES, May 15, 2003 - Based on new information from the World Health Organization and public health sources, Crystal
Cruises is revising its SARS-related boarding policy for guests, visitors and crew from Toronto. Effective immediately, residents and
those who transit through these regions can board Crystal Cruises' ships provided they pass an increased screening.
A week ago, the luxury line revised its Toronto-related policy for cruises beginning in June. However, based on reports of new
transmissions in Toronto, the line has changed its position for May cruises. The remaining cruises for this month are Crystal
Harmony's May 23 Alaska cruise and Crystal Symphony's May 18 Transatlantic followed by a May 27 European cruise originating in
London's port of Southampton.
Although there have been no confirmed reports of SARS (Severe Acute Repiratory Syndrome) on any cruise ship, Crystal Cruises and
the members of the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL) have proactively taken increased health and safety measures to
prevent the spread of SARS on a cruise ship. Crystal Cruises is, at a minimum, following the aggressive guidelines set by the 15
members of ICCL.
Based on the information from various public health sources, for cruises departing in May, Crystal Cruises is denying boarding to all
guests, crew and visitors who are from or who have transited through Hong Kong, Taiwan and mainland China and Singapore.
Guests, visitors and crew who have been in, or have transferred or transited through Toronto, Canada and Vietnam within the 10 days
preceding the ship embarkation, will receive enhanced screening for symptoms of SARS before being allowed to board.
All guests, visitors and crew will be required to complete and sign a questionnaire prior to boarding that determines whether they have
been through the aforementioned areas and/or whether they have had close contact with a confirmed or suspect SARS patient, SARS
care provider, SARS healthcare setting or a SARS household. Those who have had the close contact with SARS cases will be denied
boarding.
In addition, Crystal Cruises is maintaining its increased sanitation practices, which includes the required use of anti-viral hand sanitizers
before embarkation in each port, and the frequent use of disinfectants in commonly used areas, such as gym equipment.
The luxury line is also, among other measures, continuing to distribute educational information to guests and crew that encourages all
to wash hands frequently with soap and water.
For more information, visit Crystal Cruises' website,
www.crystalcruises.com.
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