President Joe Biden signed into law the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act early Monday. This act will allow foreign-flagged cruise ships to operate cruises to Alaska in 2021. Elective representatives of the state proposed the act in March after Canada announced its ports would be closed to cruise ships until February 2022.
U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski stated that Alaska, unlike sunshine state Florida, possesses a limited opportunity for travel. Before COVID-19 stroke the nation, the cruise season in Alaska would initiate in late spring and last until the summer. The latest, early fall. Murkowski labels this act as an opportunity for cruise lines to book trips to bring people to Alaska. “This will help us with our economy that has really been smacked hard by COVID.” Tourism is considered an essential industry in the state.
The Norwegian Cruise Line, another large cruise brand, also announced plans to resume U.S. operations beginning early August, with voyages from Seattle to Alaska. The cruise line has plans to sail through mid-October.
Cruise lines still must meet guidelines set by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to protect vacationers against COVID-19.
At BOATLAW, LLP, we have been successfully prosecuting injuries at sea for over thirty years. If you have been injured on a cruise ship, we have the experience necessary to successfully handle your claim. Call us at 1-800-262-8529 to schedule a consultation free of charge. We are ready to review your case.
Nicholas J. Neidzwski is a trial attorney who handles maritime and personal injury litigation. Appearing for plaintiffs in state and federal courts throughout Washington, California, Oregon, Alaska, and other jurisdictions. Nick’s litigation experience includes the successful resolution of various Jones Act, general maritime, and product liability cases on behalf of many different individuals. Nick was named a Rising Star by Super Lawyers 2016 through 2024. Learn more here.
