The Government of Canada continues to monitor the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the maritime and tourism sectors, with the primary objective of keeping Canadians and transport workers safe and healthy.
Transportation Minister Omar Alghabra has announced new interim orders, prohibiting recreational craft in Canadian Arctic waters and cruise ships in all Canadian waters until February 28, 2022:
- Prohibition of entry into Arctic waters by recreational vessels seeking adventure.
- Prohibition for passenger vessels with more than 12 people from entering Arctic coastal waters, including Nunatsiavut, Nunavik and the Labrador coast.
- Cruise ships with more than 100 people are prohibited from operating in Canadian waters.
- Recreational craft used by local Arctic residents will not be affected by these measures.
Essential passenger vessels, such as ferries and water taxis, will continue operations following local public health recommendations and protocols to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and prevent future outbreaks by reducing the number of passengers, ensuring physical distancing, using masks, and improving cleaning and hygiene measures.
The Government of Canada will continue to assess the situation and make any necessary changes to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians. Should the COVID-19 pandemic improve sufficiently to allow these activities to resume, the Minister of Transportation may rescind these interim orders.
"While Canadians continue to do their part to reduce the spread of COVID-19, our government continues to work hard to ensure that Canada's transportation system remains safe," said Transportation Minister Omar Alghabra.
There is no national ban for smaller cruise ships with a capacity of up to 100 people, which must follow the protocols of provincial, territorial, local and regional health authorities regarding timelines and processes in their operations.
