Canada has always been a popular destination for cruise ships from all over the world. However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, many countries have started to close their ports to cruise ships as a precautionary measure. In this article, we will explore whether Canada has also closed its ports to cruise ships and what it means for the tourism industry.
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the cruise industry worldwide. Cruise ships have been identified as high-risk areas for the spread of the virus due to their close quarters and large number of passengers and crew members. As a result, many countries have closed their ports to cruise ships in an effort to contain the spread.
Canada’s Response
Canada was one of the first countries to close its ports to cruise ships in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Canadian government announced on March 13, 2020 that it would be suspending all cruise ship operations in Canada until July 1, 2020. This decision was made in consultation with public health officials and was aimed at protecting Canadians from the spread of COVID-19.
Impact on Tourism Industry
The closure of Canada’s ports to cruise ships has had a significant impact on the tourism industry. Cruise lines have been forced to cancel or reroute their itineraries, which has resulted in lost revenue for many businesses that rely on tourism. The Canadian government has recognized this impact and has announced various measures to support affected businesses.
Current Status
As of July 1, 2020, Canada’s ports are once again open to cruise ships; however, there are strict protocols in place to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members. Cruise lines must adhere to these protocols before they will be allowed entry into Canadian waters.
- The ship must not have any suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19.
- The ship must provide a detailed plan for managing any potential COVID-19 cases onboard.
- The ship must have the capacity to isolate passengers and crew members if necessary.
- The ship must have a plan for repatriating passengers and crew members in the event of an outbreak.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canada did close its ports to cruise ships as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as of July 1, 2020, the ports are open again with strict protocols in place. While this has had a significant impact on the tourism industry, it is important to prioritize public health and safety during these challenging times.