Canada has banned cruise ships from entering its waters

"Our government is working hard to ensure a safe Canadian transportation system," the Canadian Transportation Secretary said in a statement. He also added that temporary bans on cruise ships and recreational craft are essential, especially to protect the most vulnerable groups against coronavirus. Some companies cancel their cruises in a hurry. For example, Holland America Line and Princess Cruisses, the two largest cruise lines and "Alaska specialists," canceled some of their voyages there until the end of this year. Seabourn has taken a similar step and does not expect to sail to the northernmost state of the USA this year at all. "We understand the disappointment of our passengers due to the cancellation of the voyage," said Jan Cruartz, president of Princess Cruisses. "We also understand how important shipping is to the Alaskan economy. We will do everything in our power to help our business partners and communities in Alaska, "he added. The new Canadian regulation will affect a large number of vessels. For example, a cruise from Seattle to Alaska is popular. However, the problem is in the law and the way transport there works. Carriers often operate cruise ships under a foreign flag. However, under the Long Maritime Act, foreign-flagged ships are prohibited from carrying passengers directly between two US ports. Therefore, ships sailing to Alaska usually stop in Canada. However, this is currently not possible.