Let Alaska Cruising Happen!

As many of you already know, the Cruising Industry has been at a stand still for over a year due to the Pandemic.  The CDC had issued a no sail order which was then revised to a conditional sail order.   While working through all of the "conditions" the CDC put forth, Canada said that they would not allow ships over 100 passengers to visit their ports until Summer of 2022, essentially cutting off the majority of the 2021 Alaska Season.

The Passenger Vessel Services Act (PVSA) which has been around forever states that foreign registered passenger vessels must have a foreign port stop between departing the USA and returning to the USA.  For decades, Alaska Cruises took care of this requirement by stopping in Victoria, British Columbia.   Cruise & Travel Industry Officials have recently fought to have legislation passed for this year to allow large ships to bypass this PVSA requirement and it has passed!! YIPPEE!! 

Though there are still a few more hoops to jump through, most notably is running a few "test sailings" or receiving a pass of that requirement.  The first test sailings are set to begin in June.  If all goes well with those, it is looking very favorable for a shortened Alaska Cruise season with many sailings set to operate out of Seattle.  All of the major players will have at least one ship sailing as soon as July 16, 2021!  This is so exciting!! After the year of the dumpster fire, it's so good to have some positive news!! 

The cruise lines are taking reservations now and because of reduced capacities allowed and the pent up demand for cruising, these sailings are going to sell out quickly!  Alaska usually runs from mid-May through September, so as you can see this is a much shortened season from mid-July through September.  With fewer ships in Alaska this year, that means fewer crowds making for a wonderful Alaska experience.  We have cruised to Alaska three times over the last 14 years and it is simply amazing! We have seen whales, eagles, bears, beautiful glaciers, we've been flown via helicopter to the top of a mountain to then go dog-sledding & meet the puppies!  Wonderful memories that will last a lifetime! 

The cruise lines are anxious to get back to welcoming guests on board and they are doing everything possible within their capabilities to make cruising a very safe option for all.   The cruise lines will only be welcoming fully vaccinated (Covid-19) passengers for these Alaska Sailings and it will likely be a requirement for most cruise lines going forward for the short term.  All crew will also be fully vaccinated for Covid-19. 

If you are interested in one of these wonderful Alaska Cruises, please feel free to reach out to me.  I can be reached via email: pam@pamstravel.net  or via phone: 650-363-6156.

Temporary Office Hours are M-Thursday 12pm-430pm and by appointment on Fridays.

I expect these hours to be revised soon now that more people are becoming interested in securing their next vacation!