WHY DO CRUISES HAVE TO STOP IN A FOREIGN PORT?

When my clients come to me with inspiration for a cruise, often times it can be for a place they truly love. That place is our home, the United States of America. However, one note often comes of this. The ship must dock in an international port, and that stop is not a marketing choice. It is actually a legal requirement.

THE “PASSENGER VESSEL SERVICES ACT” SETS THE RULE

This U.S. maritime law restricts foreign-flagged ships from sailing directly between two U.S. ports without a foreign stop. Nearly every major cruise line registers under a foreign flag, in places like the Bahamas, Panama, or Malta. Very few, if any, sail under the flag of the United States. This was passed in the 1800s when foreign services offered cheaper routes than their American counterparts. Congress decided to act to protect Passenger Vessels, and therefore set this law in place.

IS THAT WHY ALASKA CRUISES OFTEN STOP IN CANADA?

You are absolutely spot on. An Alaska round-trip from Seattle almost always includes a stop in Victoria or Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada. You can also see this in other cruises as well. Sailing from the Pacific Coast on a closed-loop Hawaii cruise typically calls at Ensenada, Mexico. And for our eagle eyed travelers looking at cruises, an East Coast itinerary can tuck in a quick stop at Halifax or Saint John in Canada. A beautiful place to explore, especially right when the autumn leaves start to turn and change.

THERE’S ONE MAJOR EXCEPTION…

U.S.-flagged ships, a very small handful in the industry, most notably Pride of America sailing interisland in Hawaii, aren’t bound by this law and can sail exclusively between U.S. ports. The Pride of America exclusively sails the islands, and the islands only. There actually used to be three ships that did, however it has whittled down to just one as most of those who journey to Hawaii decide to spend more time there than a one day or overnight port stop.

The Answer to the Question:

Due to government legislation, the law ensures fair transport for citizens. This has led to international port stop requirements on nearly every cruise, with the major exception being the Pride of America in Hawaii, for international cruise lines.

Additional Resources:

Ready to be inspired for your cruise with your new found knowledge? Feel free to explore our blog pages such as Expedition Cruising or Ocean Cruising to learn more. And if you’re ready to begin your journey with CARTE ATLAS at the helm planning your travel desires, reach out to us and schedule your complimentary consultation. All Aboard!