Cruises could start sailing from U.S. ports this summer, according to a letter from the CDC to the cruise industry obtained by USA TODAY. While the letter somewhat clarified the murky time frame for cruises to resume stateside – potentially by mid-July, pending cruise lines, ships and ports meeting certain requirements – it leaves plenty of questions for cruisers who may be considering booking.

USA TODAY sought out expert insights to better prepare those who are interested in booking a cruise.

• Are cruise ships safe?
• Will you be required to have a COVID-19 vaccine before boarding a cruise ship?
• What other COVID-19 protocols will be implemented on cruise ships?
• When should you book a cruise?
• How soon can you cruise from a U.S. port?

Check out the answers to all of these questions here.