The  $4 billion Cruise Ship Industry is set to fire up it’s engines in November after 20 months out in the cold.

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra eliminated the previous ban, put in place until February 2022. In a press release, Alghabra paid testament to the Canadian public having “done their part” to reduce transmission rates. 

The industry is an essential cog in Canada’s domestic tourism sector, responsible for 30,000 jobs prior to the pandemic. 

Ian Robertson, CEO of the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority welcomed the plans, with the ban being lifted earlier than expected.

“This is what we’ve been advocating for,” he said in an interview. “For government to send a positive signal that cruise would be welcome back in 2022. It’s a good day.”

Along the West Coast, tourism has been hard hit by the ban. None more so than Victoria:

“Our local economy has definitely taken a hit, but thanks to residents shopping local and supporting their friends and neighbours businesses, many businesses are still making it work.” Said Mayor, Lisa Helps. 

There is an expectation that the U.S. will also lift the legislation blocking cruise ships from making port on the Canadian coastline. Currently, ships passing between Washington and Alaska have to bypass Canadian ports due to current restrictions.

The good news is starting to gather pace domestically and internationally as we finally start to move past an incredibly trying few years. Need help navigating these difficult waters? Our experienced travel agents are always on hand to support you.