Canada blocks cruise calls by ships over 500 people

Canada is suspending calls by ships carrying more than 500 people, including the crew, until July in a step that will affect the critical Alaska cruise season.

Also notable, the Canada / New England system will be affected as the majority of those sailings will be in the fall. 

On Friday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a decision to delay the cruise season because of fears about the coronavirus pandemic.

Since US caborage law requires foreign-flag ships to stop on a round-trip at a foreign port, Canada's move has significant implications on ports such as Seattle.

Transport Minister Marc Garneau said after June 30,the government would re-examine the ban.

Smaller ships and ferries are still required, although there will be unique safety precautions.

Maritime Business World