Sen. Sullivan Proposes Exempting Cruises from Canada Stop

According to the Anchorage Daily News (ADN), Alaska’s U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan has announced plans to seek the suspension of the law requiring cruise ships to stop in Canada when traveling between the lower 48 U.S. states and Alaska.

Speaking on Tuesday during a radio interview with Mike Porcaro on 650-KENI, Sullivan discussed the potential move, which he believes could support Alaska’s economy and tourism industry.

Impact of Tariffs and Proposed Changes

The ADN article highlighted concerns that an ongoing trade war could increase costs for Alaskans and disrupt the state’s summer tourism season due to tariffs imposed on Canada.

Sullivan suggested that Congress could pass legislation to exempt cruise ships from stopping in Canada, or alternatively, President Donald Trump could issue an exemption by executive order.

He emphasized that allowing cruise ships to bypass Canadian ports would significantly benefit Alaska’s economy, though it would likely have a negative impact on Canada’s tourism industry.

The Role of Canadian Ports in Alaska Cruises

The ADN article also pointed out that Canadian travelers make up around 10 percent of Alaska’s visitors. Additionally, many tourists travel to Alaska from Vancouver, which serves as a major departure point for cruise ships sailing to Alaska from Washington state.