July 15, 2021

The Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA) welcomes the announcement made today by the Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra, to rescind the federal government’s Interim Order – effective November 1, 2021, that until now suspended cruise ships from operating within Canadian waters during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is positive news for ACPA members, the communities for which this industry generates tremendous economic impact, and the travellers who anticipate visiting our communities in the near future.

Rescinding the no-sail order will now allow the necessary vessel fit-up, staff training and additional time needed for the sector to prepare for the safe resumption of cruise in Canada. Our members are thankful for the excellent working relationship we have had with the Minister and his departmental officials during this pandemic and we look forward to helping drive our country’s post-pandemic recovery.

Since the onset of the pandemic, ACPA members have made the safety of Canadians their top priority by collaborating with the federal government and ensuring strict adherence to public health requirements. Ports remain firmly committed to continue doing so as we emerge from the pandemic.

Prior to the pandemic, the cruise sector had grown exponentially and had been a strong economic driver. Cruise activity in Canada generated nearly $4.3 billion in total output in 2019, creating over 30,250 jobs paying a total of $1.4 billion in wages and some $467 million in business and income taxes¹.  We look forward to helping rebuild the momentum in this very important sector of the Canadian economy.

Wendy Zatylny, President
Association of Canadian Port Authorities

¹The Economic Contribution of the International Cruise Industry in Canada in 2019, Cruise Lines International Association

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For more information:
Michel Hachey
Director, Brand Management
613-407-7486
mhachey@acpa-aapc.ca