Maple News reports that Canada will once again permit cruise ships to dock in its ports beginning November 1, 2021. The announcement, made by Transport Minister Omar Alghabra, marks a significant step in reviving the country’s tourism industry as pandemic recovery continues.
The lifting of the cruise ship ban, originally scheduled to last until February 28, 2022, arrives earlier than expected. The federal government attributes this decision to the nation’s improving public health outlook and ongoing efforts to support economic recovery.
Canada initially introduced the ban on February 4, 2021, to protect residents and prevent the spread of COVID-19, particularly in remote Arctic communities. At the time, cruise ships and pleasure crafts were deemed high-risk due to their crowded environments and international travel routes.
By greenlighting cruise operations from November, Canada aims to help the tourism and hospitality sectors regain momentum ahead of the 2022 cruise season. According to federal data, the cruise industry contributes roughly $4 billion annually to the Canadian economy and sustains about 30,000 jobs nationwide.
The reopening will occur under strict public health guidelines. Cruise operators must comply with all COVID-19 safety protocols mandated by the Public Health Agency of Canada. Further details on these requirements are expected as November nears.
While Canada is easing certain pandemic-related travel restrictions, most non-essential travelers — including tourists not arriving by cruise — are still not allowed into the country. The U.S.-Canada border remains closed to non-essential ground travel, and direct flights from some countries, including India, remain suspended.
Maple News also reminds travelers considering a cruise to Canada that individuals with criminal records may be deemed inadmissible and denied entry. It is important to resolve any such issues before booking a cruise that enters Canadian waters.
This move signals a cautious but optimistic shift in Canada’s border policies, aligning with broader efforts to balance public safety and economic revitalization.