If you’re planning a cruise that includes stops in Canada, you might be wondering if cruise ships are banned from entering Canadian ports. The answer is yes, at least for the time being.
Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada has implemented strict travel restrictions to limit the spread of the virus. As part of these restrictions, the Canadian government has banned cruise ships from operating in Canadian waters until February 2022.
Why were cruise ships banned
The decision to ban cruise ships from Canada was made to protect both Canadians and those who would be traveling on the ships. Cruise ships have been particularly hard hit by COVID-19 outbreaks, with several high-profile cases early in the pandemic leaving passengers stranded at sea and some even dying from the virus.
Under these circumstances, it’s not surprising that Canada decided to take a cautious approach and ban cruise ships from its ports. The hope is that this will help prevent any further outbreaks of COVID-19 in Canada and ensure that travelers can enjoy their cruises safely once they resume.
What does this mean for travelers
If you had planned a cruise that included stops in Canada, you will need to adjust your itinerary or postpone your trip until after February 2022. However, many other countries are still allowing cruise ships to operate (albeit with additional safety measures in place), so there are still plenty of options available if you’re looking for a cruising vacation.
If you do decide to book a cruise that doesn’t include stops in Canada, make sure to check with your chosen cruise line to see what safety protocols they have put in place to protect passengers from COVID-19. This might include requirements for masks or social distancing on board, as well as additional testing or vaccination requirements.
Conclusion
Although it’s disappointing that cruise ships are currently banned from entering Canadian ports, it’s an important step to ensure the safety of both Canadians and travelers. With luck, the ban will be lifted in February 2022, and travelers will once again be able to enjoy all that Canada has to offer as part of their cruise vacations. Until then, stay safe and happy travels!