Royal Caribbean has announced that it has cancelled all 2020 cruises to Canada, New England and Alaska.

The decision comes after the Government of Canada announced an extended ban on large ships in Canadian waters until the end of October in an attempt to contain coronavirus (Covid-19).

In a statement, Canadian transport minister Marc Garneau said: “Keeping Canadians and transportation workers safe continues to be my top priority during the Covid-19 pandemic.”

A spokesman for Royal Caribbean said: “As a result of the Government of Canada’s decision to extend its restriction on cruise ships carrying more than 100 guests until October 31, Royal Caribbean 2020 sailings to Canada, New England and Alaska must be cancelled.

“We are working with public health agencies and governments to ensure a safe return to service, and look forward to setting sail from and to these destinations next year.”

Celebrity Cruises, part of parent company Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, has also cancelled its 2020 sailings to Canada and Alaska, along with autumn itineraries such as Canada/New England, Hawaii and some repositioning cruises.

Many cruise lines have already cancelled their Alaska itineraries following the suspension of sailings, including Holland America Line and Seabourn.

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. announced last month that it had extended the suspension of most sailings across its cruise brands through 31 July 2020. This is with the exception of sailings from China, which will be suspended through the end of June.

Visit royalcaribbean.com for more information.