Canada has extended the ban on large cruise ships until the end of February 2021.
It extends the ban imposed on vessels with a capacity for at least 100 passengers, which was due to expire on 31 October.
It covers ships operating in Canadian waters and smaller vessels carrying more than 12 people in Artic coastal waters.
"As Canadians are doing their part to help reduce the spread of Covid-19, the Government of Canada is working hard to ensure Canada’s transportation system remains safe. The extension of these temporary measures for cruise ships and other passenger vessels in Canada reflects our ongoing work with all levels of government, transportation industry stakeholders, and Indigenous peoples," said Transport Minister Marc Garneau.
It covers the winter period when there is very little cruise passenger traffic but adds more uncertainty for the industry as it looks to resume summer 2021 operations.
If it gets extended again, it could have a major impact on the 2021 Alaska cruise season from the US which requires a port call in Canada under the U.S. Passenger Vessel Services Act.
Alaska Rep. Don Young has proposed an amendment to the Act to allow cruise ships leaving the US to bypass Canada when heading to Alaska.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US Editor
