Tonga reopens to cruisers
by Island Cruising NZ 2 Oct 2022 20:59 UTC
Tonga reopens to cruisers © Island Cruising NZ
After two-years and six-months, Tonga has lifted most of its Covid health restrictions, including that for international travel and the national curfew, effective from 27 September.
The border has now fully re-opened, with a requirement for foreign adults to provide proof of vaccination before arrival.
The Acting Prime Minister Hon. Samiu Vaipulu, with the CEO of Health, Dr. Siale 'Akau'ola and MEIDECC CEO, Paula Ma'u, declared Tonga at a "green light level' and the national night-time curfew lifted.
"Operations of all airlines and sea entry via cruise ships or yachts, have returned to normal procedures and will resume on their own, without any health orders applied," said Dr. 'Akau'ola.
These approved conventions will allow all Tongans, foreigners and transit passengers travelling to Tonga to enter the country, without the mandatory Covid pre-departure testing. The mandatory testing to be carried out within three to five-days, upon arrival is also lifted.
"The only significant requirement that remains is that foreigners (12-years and over) are still required to show their vaccination card at check in before boarding, same with cruise ships, etc.
"Wearing masks, social distancing, hand washing, etc. are encouraged but not mandatory."
At the same time, foreigners who are medically permitted not to get vaccinated, but wish to enter the country, will need to provide medical documents to the Ministry of Health in order to be permitted to travel.