Media Update: Extended suspension of cruise by Transport Canada
Oct. 29, 2020
As a community-based, not-for-profit organization our top priority is how we plan for a return of cruise in 2021 that will ensure the community, guests, and crew are kept safe.
Regulation over cruise in Canada is in the hands of Transport Canada. When Transport Canada suspended cruise visitation in Canada until July 1 and then extended it to Oct. 31, 2020, I fully supported this decision. With today’s extension to February 28, 2021, I continue to support their decision-making process and outcomes. Nothing is more important than reducing the risk of COVID-19 and keeping our community safe.
However, the suspension of cruise has meant that our organization has advocated, in collaboration with other ports across Canada, for a decision timeline and process for the safe return of cruise to our waters. I will continue to engage with Transport Canada on this. Our organization is also engaged with cruise line management as they develop and unveil their plans for a safe return of cruise in other markets, as well as on the west coast of Canada.
Our team is planning for cruise to resume in 2021 and ensuring that the Victoria Cruise Terminal will be prepared to welcome guests when it is safe to do so.
Ian Robertson
CEO
Greater Victoria Harbour Authority