COVID-19: Cruise ship travel

COVID-19 continues to circulate in Canada and internationally. The virus can spread easily between people in close quarters, such as on cruise ships. The chance of being infected with COVID-19 on cruise ships is very high, even if you’re fully vaccinated.

On this page

• Travel health advice for cruise ships
• Cruise ship travel in Canada

Travel health advice for cruise ships

If you decide to take a cruise outside of Canada, there are some important facts you should consider.

• If you aren’t fully vaccinated, or if you’re at higher risk for developing severe disease or outcomes from COVID-19, you should avoid cruise ship travel.
• Get vaccinated. Complete your COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses, in Canada, at least 14 days before your cruise begins.
• Check the COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements and other entry requirements for your shore leave locations, as well as the entry requirements for returning to Canada.
• Consider selecting only cruises and excursions that require proof of vaccination.
• Regardless of your vaccination status, consistently follow individual public health measures such as wearing a mask and physical distancing, even if it’s not required.

Outbreaks

Keep in mind that if an outbreak of COVID-19 or other contagious illness occurs during your cruise:

• you could be subject to quarantine procedures onboard the ship or in a foreign country
• the range of consular services available on cruise ships may be significantly restricted by local authorities, especially in quarantine situations
• the cost of medical care could be very expensive, and you may need to pay medical bills immediately in cash

The Government of Canada won’t pay your medical bills, including COVID-19 related expenses or medical evacuation.

If you’re infected with COVID-19, review the entry requirements and exemptions before returning to Canada. You shouldn’t depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans.

Cruise ship travel in Canada

On March 7, 2022, the Government of Canada announced that cruise lines sailing in Canadian waters must follow a strict public health framework, which includes:

• having everyone onboard fully vaccinated against COVID-19, with very few exceptions
• testing and reporting requirement

Related resources

• Travel Health Notice – COVID-19 and International Travel
• Travel advice and advisories
• Announcement of public health framework for cruise ships in Canada
• All COVID-19 measures, updates, and guidance for marine transportation
• COVID-19: Exposure notices from select cruise ships