cruises

The request comes after U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday refused to put on hold his June 18 ruling that the CDC had overstepped its legal authority in placing restrictions on the cruise industry.

Celebrity Edge departed from Fort Lauderdale at 40% capacity, and with virtually all passengers vaccinated against COVID-19.

CEO Michael Bayley wrote on social media that the ship returned Tuesday morning to PortMiami after three days and two nights at sea testing CDC safety and health protocols put in place due to the COVID pandemic.

The CDC lists the COVID-19 risk for unvaccinated passengers on cruise ships at Level 3, the second highest, down from Level 4.

In a filing Wednesday, Attorney General Ashley Moody wrote that “cruise companies are trying their best to work with the CDC because they have no choice. But make no mistake - the CDC continues its overreach."

CEO Frank Del Rio made the threat during an earnings call Thursday, just days after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill that forbids so-called vaccine "passports."

The passengers, who will have to wear face masks and observe social distancing, must be fully vaccinated or clear of high-risk medical conditions.

The CDC released a letter that outlines guidance, along with a potential restart date for cruises departing from U.S ports this summer.

In Miami, Torin Ragin heads the International Longshoremen's Association local. He says some of his 800 members have seen their hours and wages drop over the last year by more than 80%.

Florida's Attorney General Ashley Moody says the CDC violated law in prohibiting cruise ships from sailing during the pandemic.