The Canadian Government has announced that its ban on cruise ships and pleasure craft will be extended through 28th February 2021.
As a result:
*Cruise ships with overnight accommodations carrying more than 100 people continue to be prohibited from operating in Canadian waters
*All other passenger vessels must continue following provincial, territorial, local and regional health authority guidance
*Passenger vessels carrying more than 12 people continue to be prohibited from entering Arctic coastal waters, including Nunatsiavut, Nunavik and the Labrador Coast
*Adventure-seeking pleasure craft also continue to be banned in Arctic waters.
Essential passenger vessels, such as ferries and water taxis, should continue following federal guidance and provincial, territorial, local and regional protocols, as well as mitigation measures, to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.
These could include: reducing the number of passengers, ensuring physical distancing, the wearing of masks, as well as enhanced cleaning and hygiene measures.
“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 to help ensure appropriate measures are in place,” the Canadian Minister of Transport, Marc Garneau, said when announcing the extension.
Those who do not comply with the prohibition could be subject to penalties: Can$5,000 per day for individuals and Can$25,000 per day for corporations.
There is no national ban for smaller cruise ships certified to carry 100 or less passengers and crew. They must follow provincial, territorial, local and regional health authority protocols for timelines and processes around their operations.
