Have you been eagerly waiting to hop on board a cruise ship and explore the beautiful waters around Canada? Well, the pandemic has put a halt on many travel plans, including cruising.
But the question remains – is Canada still closed to cruise ships? Let’s find out.
Background
In March 2020, Canada closed its borders to international travelers due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This closure included cruise ships carrying more than 100 passengers. The Canadian government also extended this ban several times throughout 2020 and into 2021.
Current Status
As of August 9th, 2021, fully vaccinated US citizens and permanent residents are permitted to enter Canada for non-essential travel purposes, including cruising. However, there are several requirements that must be met before boarding a cruise ship.
Vaccination Requirements
All passengers and crew members must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before the cruise’s departure date. The vaccine should be one that is authorized by Health Canada or one of its equivalents in other countries.
Testing Requirements
All passengers and crew members must undergo testing before boarding a ship. A molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test will need to be taken within 72 hours of departure time.
Additional Requirements
Passengers will need to provide proof of vaccination and negative test results before boarding the ship. In addition, they will need to use the ArriveCAN app or website to provide their travel details before entering Canada.
Cruise Lines Operating in Canada
Many major cruise lines have announced their plans for resuming operations in Canadian waters this year or next year. These include:
- Royal Caribbean International
- Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
- Carnival Cruise Line
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canada is no longer closed to cruise ships. Fully vaccinated US citizens and permanent residents can now enjoy cruising in Canadian waters.
However, it is important to note that there are several requirements that must be met before boarding a ship. As always, it is essential to stay up-to-date with the latest information and guidelines provided by the Canadian government and your chosen cruise line. Happy sailing!