Preface

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These Guidelines are intended to provide information on the requirements of Federal and Territorial government agencies during the planning phase of cruises and during the subsequent Arctic voyages. Information is also included that has been provided by several non-governmental organizations.

These Guidelines are published by the Marine section of the Prairie and Northern Region of Transport Canada. This organization is tasked with the administration of regulations governing shipping within the boundaries of the Region, in particular those concerned with Arctic shipping. Much of the information contained in the Guidelines has been obtained from other organizations concerned with shipping and tourism in the North. Transport Canada cannot take responsibility for data originating outside the department.

The scope of these requirements includes the necessity for cruise operators to pay particular attention to the aboriginal land claim agreements that apply over a vast area in the Canadian Arctic. Apart from land claims, there are private properties adjacent to the Arctic coast whose owners must grant permission in advance of a cruise ship’s intention to visit them.

Most communities around the Territories welcome visits by cruise ships provided sufficient advance notice has been given.

The Guidelines are intended to assist cruise operators in achieving successful voyages and promoting good relations with all the cultures of the North.

The reader should note that this publication is not a legal document. Specific regulations and standards should be consulted to determine legal interpretations and requirements. The focus of these Guidelines is the safe and pollution-free operation of cruise ships in Canadian Arctic waters.

Arctic Cruise Ship "Bremen"
(formerly “Frontier Spirit”)
 

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