While other, U.S.-based cruise lines are holding out for the possibility that Ottawa may reverse course and permit sailing in Canadian waters this year if pandemic conditions improve, one Canadian cruise company isn't waiting. Adventure Canada announced it is pulling the plug on its entire 2021 season, with plans to resume on 28FEB 2022.
On 04FEB, Canada’s Minister of Transport, Omar Alghabra, issued an order prohibiting cruise vessels in all Canadian waters until the end of FEB 2022.
The cruise line issued a news release Friday in which CEO Cedar Swan stated: “Due to the news of this continued ban, as well as the ongoing uncertainty around international and domestic cruise travel, Adventure Canada has made the difficult but necessary decision to cancel our entire 2021 sailing season. By proceeding with the utmost caution, especially to ensure the safety of our host communities, we know that one day we will be able to travel together again—safely, conscientiously, and enjoyably.”
Swan said that Adventure Canada supports the federal government’s decision to ban cruising in Canadian waters through FEB 2022.
“Out of respect for the health and well-being of all involved, particularly that of our valued community hosts, Adventure Canada genuinely supports this decision,” she said.
Swan told Open Jaw that the safety of the small communities that their expedition cruises visit was a major factor in their decision to shut down for the year. While the remoteness of those places is part of the attraction to their clients, Swann said that "when health and safety is at risk, that same remote, limited infrastructure presents a very real challenge."
"The development of safe transit corridors and effective treatment sites are not yet well developed, and we are not prepared to put any of our host communities or clients at risk," she added.
Adventure Canada has traditionally offered a seasonal program on the Ocean Endeavour in the Canadian Arctic and Greenland.
Cruise Industry News reports the company said it is able to withstand a full season cancellation in 2021 and will offer a full suite of expeditions in 2022.
