The Bermuda Tourism Authority said they welcome “the first significant loosening of Covid-19 border protocols,” saying it “puts us in a stronger market position as we compete with rival destinations touting less stringent travel requirements.”
Minister of Health Kim Wilson recently announced changes to the Covid regulations, including changing the pre-arrival test requirement to accept antigen tests.
A BTA spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Tourism Authority welcomed the first significant loosening of Covid-19 border protocols since the island reopened in July 2020. The Bermuda Government announced that they would be changing the pre-arrival test requirement to accept antigen tests effective November 29, 2021.
“The rapid test result turn-around time, accuracy, and widespread availability of antigen tests will make the pre-arrival process significantly less burdensome for prospective travellers. The Minister of Health Kim Wilson indicated that Ministry officials were also reviewing protocols for on-island traveller follow up testing.”
BTA CEO Charles H. Jeffers II said, “The shift in protocols is encouraging news for the local industry, and the introduction of the antigen testing reflects a change that we have advocated for on behalf of our stakeholders. With increased vaccination uptake in key markets, vacation-starved travellers have been shopping for their next destination.
“This move by the government puts us in a stronger market position as we compete with rival destinations touting less stringent travel requirements. To ensure that we remain a viable and attractive destination for our cruise and airline partners, we must demonstrate that our health and safety protocols meet consumer demand for a safe, streamlined travel experience from beginning to end.“
“Vaccinated visitors to Bermuda represent less than one percent of those testing positive whilst on island [on arrival or post-arrival]. These numbers show that vaccinated travellers pose a shallow risk to the island’s Covid situation. Today’s policy changes reflect the reduced likelihood of transmission from that category and provide a safe, convenient accessible option for visitors.”
