cruise ships stuck in vancouver

Cruise ship stuck in Vancouver due to tugboat strike departs a day late

Cruise line says celebrity eclipse was tied to barge whose crew was refusing to move it.

Social Sharing

An Alaska cruise ship stranded in Vancouver overnight due to a tugboat workers strike has departed.

Celebrity Cruises said the Celebrity Eclipse, which had been due to depart Sunday afternoon, was unable to leave the Port of Vancouver without the tugs.

An onboard announcement Monday morning from the ship's captain said the Eclipse was tied to a barge whose crew were on strike .

The captain said the barge crew refused to move it, and other tugboat companies still operating in the port wouldn't move the barge either because they didn't own it.

Celebrity Cruises' social media accounts were flooded with complaints from people saying they were trapped aboard the Eclipse.

Passenger Steve Bains said the captain announced just after noon on Monday that workers had agreed to detach the ship from the barge, and later sent photos confirming the ship set sail around 12:45 p.m. PT.

Bains, who boarded the ship with his wife around 1:30 p.m. Sunday, said people were frustrated with a lack of communication from staff Sunday night.

"In a sense, we're being held hostage," he said in an interview about two hours before departure.

<a href="https://twitter.com/CelebrityCruise?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CelebrityCruise</a> I’m a guest on your Eclipse ship being held hostage in Vancouver. Your guest relations crew is a disgrace particularly the embarkation manager. Do something to accommodate the 2800 guests onboard before this becomes your Insurrection! &mdash; @blackgirlbook

2) Until this barge is untied, we cannot depart on our journey. We are as frustrated as you are. We've engaged with authorities and we're doing absolutely everything within our power to resolve the situation asap. We believe we'll be underway today. Thank you for your patience. &mdash; @CelebrityCruise

The Canadian Merchant Service Guild began job action on all 30 Seaspan tugs in the province Thursday after it said contract negotiations had reached an impasse.

Seaspan spokesperson Adam D'Agostino said despite the company's efforts to maintain service, fallout from the strike has had a cascading effect on its operations.

"Seaspan had made arrangements to minimize the impacts to our customers and the broader industry," he said. "It was unfortunate that the job action by CMSG workers has caused other union workers to refuse work that has resulted in delays to vessels, and, in some cases, passengers."

D'Agostino said Seaspan had contracted a separate tugboat company to unmoor the cruise ship from the barge but they initially declined to do the job.

"In the end, that company that we contracted the work out to got around to removing it," he said.

The Celebrity Eclipse has a capacity of 2,852 passengers, but the company hasn't said how many people are on board.

The cruise line told passengers via Twitter that they would have to skip their stop in Icy Strait, Alaska, due to lost time, but the rest of the itinerary would remain the same.

Celebrity Cruises' also said it would issue onboard credits to the amount of 1½ days of the base fare. 

With files from CBC News

Related Stories

• Top stories from British Columbia
• Coquihalla Highway re-opens, RCMP say semi crash left 1 dead
• Patients with long COVID say they feel abandoned by health services as symptoms persist
• Some parents, teachers want stricter guidelines around COVID in schools this fall

Cruise ships' delays caused by labour dispute damages Vancouver's tourism reputation, passenger says

Concern is growing about Vancouver’s reputation as a must-see tourism destination after several cruise ships were trapped in the city over the past few days due to a labour dispute.

Impacted tourists are not impressed their vacations were essentially held hostage and say the situation does not reflect well on the city.

“A lot of people come from around the world here to this ship, finally made it, and now they're stuck in port,” said Karen Bracy, a delayed passenger aboard the Celebrity Eclipse.

Two cruise ships were stuck in port Monday. They were blocked by barges left behind by striking unionized marine transportation workers for Seaspan.

The Canadian Merchant Service Guild began job action on Thursday, affecting all Seaspan tug boats.

“Vancouver is not giving a good reputation here. Why would ships come here, if they're gonna keep doing this?” questioned Bracy.

The union declined to comment on the situation.

Seaspan called the delays caused by job action “unfortunate.”

“Seaspan values its employees and the communities in which we operate and are committed to treating all employees fairly and maintaining a strong, capable workforce. We are working to resolve the issues and minimize impacts to our customers and the broader industry,” the company said in a statement to CTV News Vancouver.

 The 2,850 passenger Celebrity Eclipse was stuck in the Port of Vancouver for nearly 20 hours starting Sunday night and going into Monday afternoon.

The massive Disney Wonder was also trapped and delayed about seven hours Monday night.

CTV News has reached out to B.C’s tourism and labour ministries for comment.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Labour responded saying the strike action is outside the jurisdiction of B.C., and falls under federal jurisdiction.

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority is responsible for maintaining the safety and efficiency of navigation through the Port of Vancouver.

“We are working with the cruise line, terminal operator Ceres, Seaspan, the Vancouver Police Department and Transport Canada toward a swift resolution of this matter,” said the authority in a statement.

Three more cruise ships are scheduled to arrive in Vancouver on Wednesday. 

Vancouver Top Stories

Health authority confirms cockroaches at B.C. hospital, insists they 'do not bite'

Green Party deputy leader released pending appeal of jail sentence for Fairy Creek protests

Pro-Palestinian protest encampment established at UBC

Man wanted on child porn charges caught trying to flee Canada, B.C. police say

Semi driver followed GPS down boat launch into B.C. lake, police say

RCMP bullying claims in Surrey policing case could cause 'undue' concern, lawyer says

B.C. premier says Vancouver speech praising Hamas attack was 'most hateful' he can imagine

Goalie question looms for Vancouver Canucks ahead of pivotal Game 5

Ctvnews.ca top stories.

BREAKING | 3 law officers killed, 5 others wounded trying to serve warrant in North Carolina, authorities say

Three officers on a U.S. Marshals Task Force serving a warrant for a felon wanted for possessing a firearm were killed and five other officers were wounded in a shootout Monday at a North Carolina home, police said.

Toronto police arrest 12 people, lay 102 charges in major credit card fraud scheme

Toronto police say 12 people are facing a combined 102 charges in connection with an investigation into a major credit fraud scheme.

'Shocked and concerned': Calgary principal charged with possession of child pornography

A Calgary elementary school principal has been charged with possession of child pornography, authorities announced Monday.

CRA to audit Sask. for not paying carbon levies on home heating

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is going to audit Saskatchewan for not paying carbon levies on home heating, Premier Scott Moe said Monday.

Winner of US$1.3 billion Powerball jackpot is an immigrant from Laos who has cancer

One of the winners of a historic US$1.3 billion Powerball jackpot last month is an immigrant from Laos who has had cancer for eight years and had his latest chemotherapy treatment last week.

B.C. Premier David Eby has joined other politicians denouncing remarks at a demonstration in Vancouver where protesters chanted “long live Oct. 7,” praising that day's attacks by Hamas on Israel.

Norovirus spreading at 'higher frequency' than expected in Canada

Norovirus is spreading at a 'higher frequency' than expected in Canada, specifically, in Ontario and Alberta, according to the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Province boots mayor and council in small northern Ont. town out of office

An ongoing municipal strike, court battles and revolt by half of council has prompted the province to out the mayor and council in Black River-Matheson.

The Vancouver Island Health Authority is downplaying what staff describe as a cockroach infestation in a medical unit of Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

Shopping Trends

The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop.  Read about us.

Editor's Picks

16 night creams that'll work magic on your skin while you sleep, 17 practical things for your backyard that you'll want to order immediately, 19 of the best mother's day gifts under $50, we tried out 5 of the most popular pizza ovens on the market, and here are our thoughts, 17 backyard decor and furniture pieces you need before summer arrives, 15 cleaning products that'll have you working smarter not harder, 22 of the best mother's day gifts to give in 2024, 17 unique mother's day gifts your mom definitely wants, but probably won’t buy herself, if your mom needs a bit of rest and relaxation, here are 20 of the best self-care gifts for mother's day, 20 affordable amazon beauty and skincare products you'll probably repurchase over and over again, if you suffer from dry skin, you'll want to add at least one of these hydrating moisturizers to your cart, 14 of the best tinted lip balms you can get online right now, vancouver island.

British Columbia's highest court has ordered the Green Party of Canada's deputy leader to be released from custody pending her appeal of a 60-day jail sentence for her role in old-growth logging protests on Vancouver Island.

London Drugs stores remain closed Monday after 'cybersecurity incident'

Dozens of London Drugs stores across Western Canada remained closed Monday following what the company described as a "cybersecurity incident" over the weekend.

B.C. breweries take home awards at World Beer Cup

Out of more than 9,000 entries from over 2,000 breweries in 50 countries, a handful of B.C. brews landed on the podium at the World Beer Cup this week.

B.C. man rescues starving dachshund trapped in carrier: BC SPCA

An emaciated dachshund is now recovering thanks to a Good Samaritan who found the pup near a biking trail in Kelowna, according to the BC SPCA.

Search crews called in after missing Kelowna senior's truck found

Search and rescue crews have been called in after a vehicle belonging to a missing senior was located near a rural intersection outside of Kelowna Tuesday.

'There have been deaths on that property': City plans to demolish former Dwayne's Home building

The city could be on the hook for the bill to demolish a problem building in the heart of Edmonton.

Drinks outside on Rice Howard Way? Council to review proposal next month

Edmonton could have a downtown outdoor entertainment district as soon as June 1.

Alberta Municipalities say proposed provincial bill will create chill effect

The organization representing Alberta's cities, towns and villages says a bill granting the province sweeping new powers over local government is creating an atmosphere of fear.

Alberta government announces 'master plan' for railway development

The Alberta government has laid out the path ahead for an ambitious passenger railway system it says 'has incredible potential' for the province.

Here's how Canada's capital gains tax increase will affect Albertans with vacation properties

A new capital gains tax increase, aimed at Canada’s highest earners, is causing frustration for some Albertans with secondary homes or cottages, according to a real estate broker.

Guinness World Record attempt made in Drumheller, Alta.

Thousands of people dressed as dinosaurs descended on Drumheller, Alta., on Saturday.

'It was a journey': Historical society brings Fokker jetliner home to Lethbridge

Decades after a relic aircraft flew for a Lethbridge airline, it now has returned home for good.

RCMP in Coaldale, Alta., area conduct check stops, pull over more than 200 vehicles

Three locations, more than 200 vehicles pulled over – Mounties out of a southern Alberta detachment conducted a check stop operation on Friday night.

Winnipeg trial of man accused of killing four women starts with bid to toss jury

The trial of a Winnipeg man accused of killing four women began this morning with a preliminary matter before the jury is called in next week.

Winnipeg working on new way to fill potholes, with hopes of fewer repairs needed

There may be hope for Winnipeggers as they try to dodge numerous potholes on their daily commute. The city is testing out a new product known as Road Soup, which would be used to help fill the craters during the early spring.

'A catalyst for even more development': Construction underway at former Kapyong Barracks

Construction crews have moved in to start the first phase of development at the former Kapyong Barracks site.

Saskatchewan carrying out prescribed burns as 2024 fire season begins

With fire bans currently in effect, residents may be concerned to see smoke coming from rural areas across Saskatchewan. However, prescribed burns are being carried out to help keep many prairie regions healthy.

Kindersley, Sask. man facing drunk driving charges after fatal crash with cyclist

A 20-year-old Kindersley man faces multiple charges for impaired driving and failing to stop at the scene of a fatal crash that led to the death of a 21-year-old man in the town west of Saskatoon early Saturday morning.

Saskatoon man stabbed in incident of intimate partner violence, police say

A 27-year-old Saskatoon man is facing assault charges following a report of intimate partner violence on Saturday.

'Unfair and punitive': Eviction hearing goes ahead despite Toronto tenant's hospital visit

A Toronto senior says he missed a court date related to his impending eviction because he was recovering from a heart attack in hospital.

McGill University says pro-Palestinian demonstrators 'refuse' to collaborate, encampment violates policies

McGill University says the growing encampment on its lower field in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza violates its policies.

Quebec police officer anonymously donates kidney, changes schoolteacher's life

A police officer on Montreal's South Shore anonymously donated a kidney that wound up drastically changing the life of a schoolteacher living on dialysis.

Recycle your wine bottles and watch them transform into bridges, sidewalks

In a time of push for bigger and better infrastructure, Quebec researchers are working toward an environmentally friendly way to build bridges and construct sidewalks.

Treasury Board 'committed to hybrid work' after reports of mandated change coming in fall

The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat says it is committed to hybrid work but is not commenting on a report that it is set to mandate federal workers into offices three days per week by the fall.

One woman's story about the damage fraudulent links can do

An Ottawa woman says she believes clicking on a fraudulent link led to her entire bank account being compromised, leaving her out thousands of dollars.

Encampments 'will not be tolerated' for pro-Palestinian demonstration: uOttawa

The University of Ottawa (uOttawa) says it supports the freedom of expression, but encampments and occupations "will not be tolerated" as a pro-Palestinian demonstration takes place on campus.

Third youth charged with second-degree murder in death of 16-year-old: Halifax police

Police have charged a third youth in connection with the death of a teenager in Halifax last week.

Bedford man charged with stunting after vehicle clocked at 248 km/h: N.S. RCMP

A Bedford, N.S., man has been charged with stunting after the RCMP says he was caught driving more than 138 km/h over the posted speed limit.

Police investigating alleged threats at 2 Halifax high schools

A high school in Halifax is dismissing students early Monday due to an alleged threat.

Stunt driving charge laid after police clock driver travelling nearly 200km/h

An individual from Cambridge was charged while speeding on Highway 6 in South Bruce Peninsula.

Free parking promo in core business districts hits speed bump at committee

It will be up to city council to decide if a one-hour free parking promotion returns to the core.

Multiple ceremonies held in London, Ont. area to mark ground-breaking of new schools, childcare centres

Multiple ceremonies were held Monday to mark the beginning of construction of several new schools and childcare centres across the London region.

Man sentenced in 'shocking, unprovoked attack on a stranger' at Cambridge grocery store

A man who stabbed an employee at a Cambridge grocery store in 2022 has been sentenced to three years behind bars.

Waterloo exploring potential MZO for new affordable housing project

The City of Waterloo is moving forward with a plan to try and rezone 25 acres of city-owned land near RIM Park to allow for affordable and attainable housing.

Ont. government bans cellphones in the classroom

Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the province's latest attempts to limit cellphone use in classrooms are designed to help students focus on learning.

Northern Ontario

Former child protection worker in northern Ont. charged with sexual assault

Police in Greater Sudbury have charged a 57-year-old Sudbury suspect with sexual assault in a case that dates back 25 years.

Human skeletal remains found in Chelmsford area of Greater Sudbury, police say

A gruesome discovery was made in a remote wooded area of Greater Sudbury on Sunday night, Sudbury police say.

'I feel honoured to say I was his friend': Wayne Gretzky remembers Bob Cole

Tributes continue to pour in for Bob Cole as his family has confirmed a funeral will be held for the legendary broadcaster Friday in St. John's, N.L.

Voice of 'Hockey Night in Canada' Bob Cole never considered moving out of St. John's

Legendary sportscaster Bob Cole was a Newfoundlander through and through, and his daughter says his connection to the province was 'everything' to him.

Cenovus fined $2.5 million for biggest oil spill in Newfoundland and Labrador history

Cenovus Energy has been ordered to pay a $2.5-million fine for its role in the largest offshore oil spill ever recorded in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Stay Connected

• Your Profile
• Your Subscriptions
• Your Business
• Support Local News
• Payment History
• Sign up for Daily Headlines
• Sign up for Notifications

'We can't sail': Passengers 'hostages' on cruise ship stranded in Vancouver during strike

• Share by Email
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share via Text Message

A local tugboat workers' strike has meant the vacation plans for around 2,500 travellers were put on pause.

The Celebrity Eclipse, which holds around 2,850 passengers when full, remained in port at Vancouver's cruise ship terminal a full day behind schedule. In a series of tweets the cruise ship line says a tugboat company was on strike and had left a barge tied up to the gigantic ship, explaining that the workers refuse to move it and other companies won't move it since they don't own it.

"Until it's untied and moved, we can't sail. This is an unfortunate situation, and we are as frustrated as you are. We've engaged with the authorities and we're doing everything within our power to resolve the situation as quickly as possible," Celebrity Cruises tells one passenger who tweeted at them.

The cruise was supposed to head to Alaska on Sunday, Aug. 28. Midday on Monday the cruise line was finally able to tweet out word that the ship would be able to leave "shortly." Unfortunately, though, passengers would be missing out on seeing one of the planned stops along the route.

"We will do everything in our power to make up for the lost time! While we will, unfortunately, lose our call to Icy Strait, we will maintain the remainder of our itinerary as originally planned," tweeted Celebrity Cruise in response to a passenger inquiry. "We're also issuing an onboard credit equal to the amount of 1.5 days of the base cruise fare paid. Any unused portion on the sailing will be credited back to the original form of payment. Any Icy Strait excursion booked through Celebrity Cruises will also be automatically cancelled and refunded."

The cruise line did not indicate how it would be able to move the ship out of port in Vancouver.

Passengers on board have taken to social media to express their frustration.

@CelebrityCruise 1st time on a cruise and waited over 2 yrs for this trip due to covid. trip of a lifetime for mine and my friends 50th which has now been ruined by this situation. #disappointed with Celebrity as communication very poor from Captain and employees on board. — Karen Fowles (@karenfowles2) August 29, 2022

Celebrity eclipse held hostage in Vancouver. — Rebecca Johnson (@Rebecca47372581) August 29, 2022

On Celebrity Eclipse here, apparently held "hostage" by the fuel barge operators that attached yesterday and left the scene without detaching, preventing us from leaving. 👍refusing services to ship, but 👎to holding hostages as bargaining chip. #RCMP where are you? — Glenn Bell (@Voiced4You) August 29, 2022

@CelebrityCruise @GlobalBC @JustinTrudeau @CTVVancouver @VancouverSun @CityofVancouver @MoreThanShips @Seaspan Do something to get in front of this crisis to accommodate your guests. This is outrageous! #willnevertraveloncelebritycruiseagain — Debra Williamson (@blackgirlbook) August 29, 2022

Job action began on 30 Seaspan tugboats Thursday, Aug. 25, after the Canadian Merchant Service Guild said contract negotiations stopped. Seaspan is one of the largest tugboat operators in the Port of Vancouver area. The contract with captains and engineers ended in 2019 .

With files from Jane Seyd /North Shore News

• Oldest Newest

This has been shared 0 times

Featured Flyer

• Where to Find Us
• Submit News Tip
• Advertise With Us
• Newsletters
• News Insiders

Cruise ship stuck in Vancouver leaves for Alaska after strike delay

By Mike Lloyd and Hana Mae Nassar

Posted August 29, 2022 9:40 am.

Last Updated August 30, 2022 6:09 am.

After a major delay, a cruise ship that was stuck in Vancouver due to an ongoing strike is now on route to Alaska.

The Celebrity Eclipse was supposed to leave Canada Place at 5 p.m. Sunday. However, due to job action by members of Seaspan, the vessel was stuck at port until Monday afternoon.

What a fantastic view your paying customers have… pic.twitter.com/aiZDIC1KDb — Laura Dietz (@LauraMDietz) August 29, 2022

“We’re excited to announce that you #JourneyWonderFULL will be underway shortly,” Celebrity Cruises tweeted just after 12:30 p.m. “We appreciate your patience and wish you the best sailing through Alaska!

#CelebrityEclipse guests – We're excited to announce that your #JourneyWonderFULL will be underway shortly. We appreciate your patience and wish you the best sailing though Alaska! — Celebrity Cruises (@CelebrityCruise) August 29, 2022

The ship was able to leave after a fuel barge was detached Monday afternoon.

The Canadian Merchant Services Guild has been on strike since Thursday. While Seaspan doesn’t directly assist cruise ships, it does tow barges like the one that was attached to the vessel.

@CelebrityCruise Eclipse Barge finally being pulled away. @CityNewsVAN pic.twitter.com/wIjOexd6LX — Pat Waslen (@WASLEN) August 29, 2022

In the lead up to the departure, many frustrated passengers took to social media to complain.

“Been onboard for nearly 20 hours now and not moved an inch. Not going anywhere and can’t get off. Worst thing is total lack of communication from company,” one person tweeted Monday morning.

@CelebrityCruise 1/2 Stuck on Celebrity Eclipse in Vancouver Harbour. Been onboard for nearly 20 hours now and not moved an inch. Not going anywhere and can’t get off. Worst thing is total lack of communication from company . Just had first announcement since 6pm last night — Neil Young (@shakeyneil) August 29, 2022

“@CelebrityCruise telling your stranded customers onboard the Eclipse in Vancouver that you’re doing everything you can 24hrs later isn’t good enough. Two other ships have managed to leave. Why hasn’t yours? Or have you not paid your fuel bill?!” another wrote.

In a reply, the company said the Eclipse “just happened to be the last ship scheduled to depart the port.”

“There’s a local tug workers strike. Without the support of tug boats, the ship is unable to depart the port. We’re working diligently with all local authorities to resolve the situation,” Celebrity Cruises added.

In another reply, Celebrity Cruises stressed that “every effort” was being made to get the ship out.

“Your Captain will share any and all details with you around the ship’s plans,” it told a passenger, despite claims from some onboard that they were being provided no information from staff.

Hi Stuart, every effort is being made to have the ship on its way as soon as possible. We are working diligently with all of the local authorities to do everything we can to resolve the situation. Your Captain will share any and all details with you around the ship’s plans. — Celebrity Cruises (@CelebrityCruise) August 29, 2022

Strike ongoing

A notice to Seaspan members of the guild notes that negotiations had “reached an impasse,” with strike action to affect “all 30 of the Seaspan tugs” in B.C.

In a response to CityNews, Seaspan says it “has been in negotiations to renew the collective agreements with unions representing our Marine Transportation workers.”

“Despite our best efforts, and with the assistance of federal mediators, we have been unsuccessful in reaching an agreement with the Canadian Marine Services Guild (CMSG). As a result there has been job action by workers associated with Seaspan’s ship assist and tug & barge businesses,” the statement reads.

“It is unfortunate that the job action by CMSG workers has caused other union workers to refuse work that has resulted in delays to vessels and in some cases, passengers. Seaspan values its employees and the communities in which we operate and are committed to treating all employees fairly and maintaining a strong, capable workforce. We are working to resolve the issues and minimize impacts to our customers and the broader industry.”

The union, meanwhile, has declined to provide comment on the matter.

The Port of Vancouver previously confirmed to CityNews that the “labour action by the Canadian Merchant Services Guild, including on-water picketing near Canada Place” affected the Celebrity Eclipse’s departure.

“The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority is responsible for maintaining the safety and efficiency of navigation through the Port of Vancouver. We are working with the cruise line, terminal operator Ceres, Seaspan, the Vancouver Police Department and Transport Canada toward a swift resolution of this matter,” an earlier statement to CityNews read.

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correctly attribute the statement about negotiations to Seaspan. The union has declined to provide comment.

Top Stories

The BC Ombudsperson is sounding the alarm about youth in custody who he says are endangered due to inaction by the province.

The premier of B.C. stands firmly against calls by city councillors to end the province's drug decriminalization pilot.

A mother and son had to be rescued after getting lost on a hike in North Vancouver near Grouse Mountain by North Shore Rescue.

A night out at the White Rock Pier turned into a nightmare for a couple who had just arrived in Canada, after one of them was stabbed Sunday.

Most Watched Today

A former gangster is speaking out to highlight the harsh realities of the gang lifestyle and its far-reaching consequences. Monika Gul reports.

Researchers at UBC say getting outside and immersing yourself in a forest can have real health benefits. As Angela Bower explains, forest bathing can alleviate stress and improve your mood.

A group of city councillors in Metro Vancouver say they want to put a stop to B.C.’s drug decriminalization pilot project, Kier Junos reports, after the state of Oregon cancelled its three-year pilot last month.

Vancouver police say fans were generally well behaved for the Canucks' first home playoff game in nearly nine years. But as Kate Walker reports, the VPD says it will be cracking down on public drinking as the playoffs continue.

Dakota Joshua had a pair of goals, including the eventual game-winner, Thatcher Demko made 20 saves, and the Vancouver Canucks took Game 1 over the Nashville Predators 4-2.

Cruise ship sails for Alaska after passengers were stranded in Vancouver due to tugboat strike

The captain announced just after midday Monday that the union and its workers had agreed to detach the ship from the barge

Author of the article:

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

VANCOUVER — An Alaska-bound cruise ship has set sail from Vancouver after an almost daylong delay because of a tugboat strike sparked a flood of complaints from stranded passengers.

The Celebrity Eclipse had been scheduled to depart at 4 p.m. Sunday, but Celebrity Cruises said the ship became stuck in the Port of Vancouver because it was attached to a barge whose crew was refusing to remove it.

Passenger Steve Bains said the captain announced just after midday Monday that the union and its workers had agreed to detach the ship from the barge, and later sent photos confirming the ship set sail around 12:45 p.m.

The cruise line says on its Twitter account that the ship will skip its trip to Icy Strait in Alaska, but will stick to the rest of the weeklong itinerary as planned.

Enjoy the latest local, national and international news.

• Exclusive articles by Conrad Black, Barbara Kay, Rex Murphy and others. Plus, special edition NP Platformed and First Reading newsletters and virtual events.
• Unlimited online access to National Post and 15 news sites with one account.
• National Post ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.
• Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.
• Support local journalism.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

• Access articles from across Canada with one account.
• Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.
• Enjoy additional articles per month.
• Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Don't have an account? Create Account

Hi Laura, Celebrity Eclipse just happened to be the last ship scheduled to depart the port. There's a local tug workers strike. Without the support of tug boats, the ship is unable to depart the port. We're working diligently with all local authorities to resolve the situation. — Celebrity Cruises (@CelebrityCruise) August 29, 2022

It says it will also be issuing a “credit equal to the amount of 1.5 days” and that any excursions booked through the company for Icy Strait would be cancelled and refunded.

The cruise line’s social media accounts were filled with complaints from people saying they were stuck on the ship.

The Canadian Merchant Service Guild began job action on all 30 Seaspan tugs in the province Thursday after it said contract negotiations reached an impasse.

The Celebrity Eclipse has a capacity of 2,850 people, but the company has not confirmed how many people are on board.

Our website is the place for the latest breaking news, exclusive scoops, longreads and provocative commentary. Please bookmark nationalpost.com and sign up for our daily newsletter, Posted, here .

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.

'What the hell are they thinking?': Poilievre blames Trudeau Liberals for B.C.'s drug decriminalization chaos

India summons canadian diplomat over pro-khalistan separatism slogans at trudeau speech, subscriber only. first reading: the canada-topping global rankings ottawa doesn't want you to know about, colonel charged with making disloyal comments about canadian forces leaders, 'most hateful': b.c. premier david eby condemns vancouver speech praising oct. 7, the new wave of luxury pools and backyards.

Find out what’s in, what’s out and what’s next

Thoughtful and useful gifts under $75

Not a knick-knack in sight

Advertisement 2 Story continues below This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below.

Badgley Mischka founders bring celebrity-approved designs to Vancouver

Fashion brand Badgley Mischka has been worn by Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Helen Mirren and many more.

Phil Rosenthal of Netflix's "Somebody Feed Phil" on his love of travel, food, discovering the unknown

Plus his can't-live-without travel essentials

Walmart makes patio furniture from recycled materials

Stylish and affordable sets for your outdoor space

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here . By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

You've reached the 20 article limit.

You can manage saved articles in your account.

and save up to 100 articles!

Looks like you've reached your saved article limit!

You can manage your saved articles in your account and clicking the X located at the bottom right of the article.

SIMMONS: Could this be Brendan Shanahan's last game as president of the Leafs?

Justin bieber worries fans as he breaks down in tears, hailey responds, warmington: missing 'coach's corner' no worries, we offer you cherry's corner, canadian man bound, head partially severed in grisly jamaica murder, tv comedy killed by 'extreme left and p.c. crap,' seinfeld says, cruise ship stuck in vancouver by tugboat strike may sail today, passengers told.

Author of the article:

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

VANCOUVER — Passengers on an Alaska cruise ship stranded in Vancouver by a tugboat strike have been told the ship will likely set sail later today.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

• Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account.
• Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on.
• Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists.
• Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists.
• Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

• Access articles from across Canada with one account.
• Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.
• Enjoy additional articles per month.
• Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Don't have an account? Create Account

Cruise ship stuck in Vancouver by tugboat strike may sail today, passengers told Back to video

Celebrity Cruises says the Celebrity Eclipse, which had been due to depart Sunday afternoon, is unable to leave the Port of Vancouver without the tugs, but staff are “working diligently” with local authorities to resolve the situation so the ship can sail.

An onboard announcement this morning from the ship’s captain said the Eclipse is tied to a barge whose crew are on strike.

The captain said the barge crew is refusing to move it, while other tugboat companies still operating in the port won’t move the barge either because they don’t own it.

Celebrity Cruises’ social media accounts have been flooded with complaints from people saying they are trapped aboard the Eclipse.

The Canadian Merchant Service Guild began job action on all 30 Seaspan tugs in the province Thursday after it said contract negotiations reached an impasse.

The announcement to passengers was made around 10:30 a.m. while The Canadian Press was speaking with someone on the ship.

“This is a most unusual and unfortunate situation and we are as frustrated as you are,” the captain said.

The Celebrity Eclipse has a capacity of 2,850 people.

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here . By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

You've reached the 20 article limit.

You can manage saved articles in your account.

and save up to 100 articles!

Looks like you've reached your saved article limit!

You can manage your saved articles in your account and clicking the X located at the bottom right of the article.

• Tour Operators
• Destinations
• Hotels & Resorts
• Agent Feedback
• Deals & Incentives
• On Location
• Industry Experts
• Sphere – HomeBased
• Digital Editions
• Subscribe today!

• Hotels and Resorts
• Types of Travel
• Subscribe Now

Cruise ship sails for Alaska after overnight delay in Vancouver due to tugboat strike

Post date: Aug 30 2022

Date: Aug 30 2022

By: The Canadian Press

VANCOUVER — An Alaska-bound cruise ship set sail from Vancouver Monday after an almost daylong delay because of a tugboat strike sparked a flood of complaints from stranded passengers.

The Celebrity Eclipse had been scheduled to depart at 4 p.m. Sunday, but Celebrity Cruises said the ship became stuck in the Port of Vancouver because it was attached to a barge and tugboat workers were refusing to remove it.

Passenger Steve Bains said the captain announced just after midday Monday that workers had agreed to detach the ship from the barge, and later sent photos confirming the ship set sail around 12:45 p.m.

The cruise line said on its Twitter account that the ship will skip its trip to Icy Strait in Alaska, but will stick to the rest of the weeklong itinerary as planned.

It will also be issuing a “credit equal to the amount of 1.5 days” and that any excursions booked through the company for Icy Strait would be cancelled and refunded, it said.

“WE ARE AS FRUSTRATED AS YOU ARE”

An on-board announcement Monday morning from the ship’s captain said the Eclipse was expected to depart later that day, saying the job action was the cause for the delay.

“This is a most unusual and unfortunate situation and we are as frustrated as you are,” the captain said. “We will more regularly communicate with you to keep you fully informed on our progress.”

The announcement to passengers was made around 10:30 a.m. while The Canadian Press was speaking with someone on the ship.

The Canadian Merchant Service Guild began job action on all 30 tugs operated in the province by Seaspan, a Vancouver marine services company, on Thursday after it said contract negotiations reached an impasse.

Adam D’Agostino, a spokesperson for Seaspan, said it was unfortunate that its negotiations with the tugboat union had negatively impacted customers.

“Seaspan had made arrangements to minimize the impacts to our customers and the broader industry, and it was unfortunate that the job action by CMSG workers has caused other union workers to refuse work that has resulted in delays to vessels and, in some cases, passengers,” he said.

D’Agostino said the company had contracted the work to a separate tugboat company that had initially refused to unmoor the cruise ship from the barge.

“In the end, that company that we contracted the work out to got around to removing it,” he said.

The Celebrity Eclipse has a capacity of 2,850 people, but the company has not said how many people are on board.

Tags: Celebrity Cruises, Lead Story

Four cruise ships call into Port of Vancouver on a busy Sunday

With only three berths available, what's the fix? The port authority had the fourth ship, the Viking Orion, at anchor in the harbour and passengers were ferried ashore

You can save this article by registering for free here . Or sign-in if you have an account.

Article content

The Port of Vancouver had a very busy berth day this weekend.

Those gazing out over the harbour on Sunday morning might have noticed that not only were all active berths full, there was another cruise ship anchored in the harbour waiting for its turn on shore.

The Canada Place docks have capacity for three large ships, and once in a while more than that number opt to call Vancouver on the same day. That left the Viking Orion on the outside looking in, with the Celebrity Eclipse in the east berth, the Serenade of the Seas in the north, and the Noordam in the west.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

• Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account.
• Get exclusive access to the Vancouver Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on.
• Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists.
• Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists.
• Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

• Access articles from across Canada with one account.
• Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.
• Enjoy additional articles per month.
• Get email updates from your favourite authors.

Sign In or Create an Account

“Usually, those extra ships will anchor during the day and move to berth later when those ships at berth depart,” said port spokesperson Arpen Rana.

Rana explained that what looked like something of a rescue operation for those on board the anchored Orion was anything but.

As Vancouver is a popular tourist destination for many passengers, some wanted to go ashore even though their ship was anchored offshore. Small boats are brought in to ferry them into the city.

“In this case, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority worked with the cruise ship operator and Canada Border Services Agency to accommodate the disembarking passengers via the port authority’s harbour master south float,” said Rana in an email to Postmedia.

“We anticipate that it will be a busy cruise season this summer as Vancouver is considered to be a top city for cruisers to visit,” said Rana.

Postmedia is committed to maintaining a lively but civil forum for discussion. Please keep comments relevant and respectful. Comments may take up to an hour to appear on the site. You will receive an email if there is a reply to your comment, an update to a thread you follow or if a user you follow comments. Visit our Community Guidelines for more information.

'We knew we would be OK with one': Why single-child families are now common in B.C.

Update: pro-palestine camp set up at ubc sports field, douglas todd: shade problem stretches far beyond brentwood’s highrises.

Update: London Drugs closed, phones down after cybersecurity incident

Capital gains tax increase: will you have to pay.

This website uses cookies to personalize your content (including ads), and allows us to analyze our traffic. Read more about cookies here . By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy .

You've reached the 20 article limit.

You can manage saved articles in your account.

and save up to 100 articles!

Looks like you've reached your saved article limit!

You can manage your saved articles in your account and clicking the X located at the bottom right of the article.

• Holland America Line

Westerdam Stuck In Vancouver Sept.25th

By TCF , September 26, 2006 in Holland America Line

Recommended Posts

For those who are interested and follow such things.

A loaded grain freighter ran aground at the first narrows of the Vancouver harbour this afternoon. The grounding blocked what appeared to be about half the channel on the harbour side of the Lion's Gate Bridge.:(

The news report said there were two cruise ships stuck in the harbour waiting to make their northbound runs to Alaska but didn't name them.:(

The Port of Vancouver website shows three cruise ships in port today. The Coral Princess, the Westerdam, and the Spirit of Endeavour. The Port website does not however say when the ships are scheduled to leave! Of the three the Endeavour is the smallest...only about 100 passengers...so it is likely that it is small enough to have made it out of the harbour even after the grounding whereas the other two are too big.

Six tugboats were trting to pull the freighter free at high tide, (around 7:00pm PDT), but it appeared were not having a lot of success. Hopefully they will get it free tonight and the folks on the ships can get away before they have to start cutting stops.:(

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Wow! That would be a bummer. But things like that do happen from time to time. Hopefully it's been taken care of by now. Anyone know for sure?

:eek: Good evening,

I was at the pier, along with hundreds of other cruise enthusiasts, to ''salute'' the last sailaway of the season for Westerdam,Coral Princess and Spirit of endeavour. Coral cast her lines off at 1632, was stern in,thus simply moved forward and somewhat never got to normal speed making her 2 points turn and getting under way in Burrard Inlet...Spirit of Endeavour also started her manoeuvres out of the same dock, did a full 4 points right in the East dock basin ( she berthed bow first) and sailed out...and promptyl turned east on Burrard Inlet ( the opposite direction to where you want to sail away to).

On the scanner, we had just heard the call from the skipper of a freighter, advising sea traffic control the ship lost its steering capacities right in the narrows under the LionsGate bridge, heading into the harbour area if Burrard Inlet...and had gone aground. Sea traffic was instantly stopped, including Coral P which settled to a dead stop facing west. It was decided that simply hold Westerdam at dock,although she was cleared to castaway her lines and move out. Spirit of Endeavour then sailed a bit East, stopped, turned around, and slowly made her way abreast of Coral P...and a dead stop.

Ten tug boats and the police patrol boat made their way to the grounding site.

For unexplained reasons, sea traffic control tower authorized Westerdam to castaway, back out ,do her two points turn...and come to a dead stop 2 shiplenghts behind Coral Princess ( 1735 pdt).

At 1855, the tugs re-emerged in view, going back to their docks, without any sign of the grounded ship.As it turned out, situation was assessed, disabled vessel was anchored secured right where she ran aground, beam,width and draft datas were established and it was deemed safe to re-allow traffic thru the narrows.It was high tide then. Disabled vessel to be tugboat-towed to a local dockyard for drydock repairs.No leak were noted.Her power train still functionnal to supply hotel and stabilising power while awaiting the next ''rescue '' move,probably next high tide.

At 1903, Spirit of Endeavour was on the move, 1905, Coral P., and 1907 Westerdam.

Quite an exciting little episode for all of us....

Four media choppers were in the area within minutes...I guess there is a wide spread use of scanners around...

Since the bigger ships were both headed to LAX, no damage done to their schedule;;they'll be safely moored in SanPedro Thursday by 0700...Spirit of endeavour is headed to Seattle, a mere 139 nautical miles from our port...no sweat there either.

Wow, Thanks for the news. Mom & I are headed to the west coast tomorrow to stay with a freind for a couple of nights and then the 3 of us are embarking the Westerdam on Thursday. She will actually be docked at Long Beach, next to the Queen Mary. There will be 3 other ships docked at San Pedro. When I first saw the title of this thread I didn't know what think but kept reading to find out that everyone did make it out of Vancouver. I know a lot of the guys in the Beverage Dept. so sure they will share it with us on Thursday.

47 cruises on HAL at the age of 41

504 days at sea on 11 different dam ships

500 day gold medallion holder

Sept. 04 Rotterdam trans Atlantic hurricane Karl survivor.

9/28/06 trans canal - Westerdam

12/06 Christmas & New Years - Westerdam

if Holland America doesn't go there WE DON'T DO!!!!

Interesting story!

;) Good evening,

A slight update....The disabled vessel was heading OUT, not IN....And the initial rescue tugboats armada did manage to re-float her;; now, where did she go, on her own, from there, is another story......As at 2300pdt, facts seem to point towards the vessel being towed to a local dock for repairs; her payload of grain will not be transloaded; repairs appears to be '' possible'' on a wetdock basis ( certainly not, if it involves removing the steering ''blade'' itself to access the axle and pins.....)

RJBEAN4: thanks for setting the record straight as regards where WESTERDAM will be berthed in L.A.....Boy, you are LOYAL to HAL...congratulations on all the super levels you've reached. I hope HAL treats you '' accordingly'' when you show up at your ''second home'', their ships .... Will you be getting on the '' new and improved'' O'ODAM after she re-emerges from her current drydock ??? Seems she's getting quite a face lift, to NOORDAM's level.

Krazy Kruizers

Thanks for the news report.

Very interesting.

Just glad that no cruise ships were involved.

At the moment we don't have any plans for Oosterdam although we have cruised on her in the Med in 03. This will be our 1st time on Westerdam and we have also been on the Zuiderdam. We have also cruised Alaska 3 times and all have been from Vancouver and stayed at the Pan Pacific. We did the Veendam last summer for 2 weeks. Veendam spends the winter in Tampa where we live. Glad to hear that all the ships did make it out of Vancouver OK even though they were delayed.

We have been cruisng HAL since December, 1998. First night out on our 1st ever HAL cruise on the Nieuw Amsterdam I ment one of the crew who till this day is still with the company and a bartender. We have been the best of friends all these years and he is currently home on vacation with his family. We have done A LOT to help him over the years and his last ship was Veendam. So he was here in Tampa last winter. So you know how I spent my Saturdays when they were here. He is the reason we have been so loyal to HAL. We are his American family. I am his American sister and my mom his American mom. We do cruise with him as much as we can. Especially for the Holidays. We just recieved our 500 day medallions when we were with him for the Holidays last year and at the same Mariners party on New Years day he was awarded his 20 year service pin. I was able to track down the Hotel Manager to tell him we would be sailing and told him if possible we really wanted to be there for his pin as duiring the same cruise we were getting our new medallions. It was actually my friend that put the medallion around me neck. Another crew member that also recieved his 20 did my moms. He told us before he went home for vacation what his next vessel assignment is and it wasn't what we wanted to hear so after he returned home he was going to go to work on getting it changed. He had been requesting to come back to Veendam. I have emailed his daughter to find out what is going on but haven't heard anything yet. We have been known to chage ships to be with him but if we can't find out anything in time for this year we may not be with him as we are going back to the Westerdam in December for the Holidays.

When we cruise I always say that we are just glad to be there. We are not picky and complain about things. Just glad that we can cruise. We have known some of the guys for a long time and they do sometimes say "welcome home" after embarkation. We have also been upgraded to a suite again so that will be nice for 17 days. My dad flew commercially for NWA for 31 years so we used to quite a bit of flying. But he had a massive heart attack with brain damage and passed away 6 years later so that's when mom & I got into cruising. This will not be our 1st trans canal cruise but every time we have done it we have been on a bigger ship each time. I only found out that Westerdam will be at Long Beach because of what it said in our documents. Then checked the web site that was provided. I had hoped that we would be at San Pedro with the Veendam becasue we would have the chance to meet up with the guys that we know that are on there. But will just have to wait till they get back to Tampa the end of October as my freind also left a box on board that he wants me to get and store for him.

2 hours from our pick up for the airport. Westerdam HERE WE COME!!!!

Sept. 04 Rotterdam trans Atlantic hurricane Karl survivor

if Holland America doesn't go there WE DON'T GO!!!!

Thank you for your excellent report. Very interesting and I enjoyed reading it.

Yes, Claude. Thanks so much for taking the time to fill us in. I'm sure it was an exciting time for everyone last evening.

As of 7:48 this morning the Coral Princess' bridge cam shows her still enroute to LA. Nothing in view at this point but water.

Yes, Claude.   As of 7:48 this morning the Coral Princess' bridge cam shows her still enroute to LA. Nothing in view at this point but water.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:21 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 03:17 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:00 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:41 AM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Cruise line canceled while guests were already onboard

• Published: Apr. 29, 2024, 4:53 p.m.

Royal Caribbean Cruise canceled while guests were already onboard. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File) AP

• EmilyAnn Jackman | [email protected]

So much for thinking they had crossed their final hurdle.

Guests onboard the Royal Caribbean cruise line were told their trip was canceled and were being sent home despite already being aboard the ship.

Royal Caribbean International notified guests onboard Radiance of the Seas that the ship would not continue on an already-abbreviated Alaskan cruise. The trip was canceled, and guests had to disembark, CruiseHive.com reported.

The ship was set to leave from Vancouver, British Columbia, on April 26, but an earlier adjustment due to technical difficulties allowed guests to board on embarkation day while the ship was to spend two days in port undergoing repairs.

The revised plan features a Sunday departure and an adjusted route, with calls to Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan and scenic cruising in the famed Inside Passage before returning on May 3, which was the original completion date.

But it was later announced that the trip was being canceled due to repairs for a technical issue. Guests had to leave the ship by 4 p.m. Sunday.

“As you are aware, our teams have been vigorously working to have Radiance of the Seas prepared to set sail on our shortened April 26th sailing,” the letter given to passengers in their staterooms read, the unofficial cruise site RoyalCaribbeanBlog.com reported.

“Despite our best efforts, circumstances beyond our control have delayed our sailing further. As a result, we’ll regrettably have to cancel our April 26th, 2024, cruise,” the letter concluded.

Guests will receive a 100% refund of their cruise fare and a 100% future cruise credit that may be applied to any future Royal Caribbean sailing. Internet service aboard the ship was also open free of charge to allow for easier travel planning and offered a free open bar until debarkation.

The ship began to develop propulsion difficulties last week during a repositioning cruise from Los Angeles to Vancouver, causing multiple stops to be scrapped due to a slower speed.

Stories by EmilyAnn Jackman

• Cicadas are coming out in droves and have been so loud, many are dialing 911
• Metal icon’s son recalls almost dying after stepping in rat urine, contracting life-threatening disease
• Reba McEntire wows fans with a major news announcement

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

• TN Navbharat
• Times Drive
• ET Now Swadesh

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Headed To Alaska Cancelled: How To Get Refund For Travel Expenses

Updated Apr 30, 2024, 02:48 IST

Royal Caribbean International will provide a 100 per cent refund to the passengers. | Representational Image

RFK Jr. Links Voter ID Laws to 'Racially Rancid' Scam In Old Comic Book: Writings Surface Ahead of 2024 Race

Gurucharan Singh’s Reel Son Samay Shah AKA Jr Sodi Reveals Actor Was Working On A Film

What Is 'Dahn World'? Cult Religious Group BTS, Agency HYBE Rumored To Be Associated With

Varun Chakravarthy REVEALS How Shah Rukh Khan Motivated KKR After Heavy Loss vs PBKS

Cesar Chavez School Shooting Reports: Lockdown Imposed Amid Large Police Presence Near High School In Ceres

Shen Yinhao's Instagram Mix-Up Leads To Mistaken Identity, Indonesia Fans Mock Random Account Post Semifinals

UT Austin Protest: Texas DPS Troopers In Riot Gear Deployed To Clear Encampment| VIDEO

Manisha Koirala On Staying Strong After Separation, Considering A Life Partner: If There Was A Male Figure In My Life...| EXCLUSIVE

Location of Cruise Ships

Where are the cruise ships now.

The following list is showing the scheduled location of all cruise ships. Please click on the ship name to see the current ships position in a map and additional information.

Sign up for the best deals!

Sign up and we'll send you the best deals to your inbox - 100% FREE.

Latest price updates

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Ports
• Alaska Cruise Ports

Vancouver (BC Canada)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Alaska

Local Time 2024-04-29 16:27

Port Vancouver cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Vancouver, BC Canada. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Port Vancouver is Canada's "Alaskan" cruise port and homeport for Alaska-based liners during summer. The port handles annually between 240-270 cruise ship calls and over 1 million passengers through Canada Place cruise terminal. Port's total annual economic impact is ~USD 1,6 billion.

As the number and sizes of cruise liners to Vancouver constantly increase, the port is more and more often ranked as congested. The average passenger capacity of the vessels increased by 138% (up to 3100 pax) and the average LOA length increased by 50%, (up to 300 m / 985 ft). However, Canada Place Terminal's capacity is limited as the facility was built for older design ships.

Port Vancouver

Vancouver's cruise shipping business generates nearly US$3 million by each visiting vessel (at Canada Place), nearly 7000 Canadian jobs, ~US$300 million in wages, ~US$840 million to Canada's GDP. As cargo port, Vancouver BC is ranked North America's 3rd largest - after South Louisiana (along Mississippi River) and Houston TX . It serves shipping lines connecting Canada with 170+ countries. Port's annual trade volume is estimated at ~USD 200 billion. It sustains a total of 115,300 Canadian jobs, and generates US$7 billion in wages and US$12 billion in GDP.

The Port Authority company Vancouver Fraser manages the federal seaport lands in and around the city. Vancouver is Canada’s largest cruise port and main homeport for Alaskan cruises. The port has 28 marine terminals serving Ro-Ro ships (car carriers), break-bulk and bulk carriers, container ships and cruise vessels.

• In 2019, BC Government, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and FortisBC (natural gas and electricity provider) signed a deal to establish Westcoast Canada's first STS LNG (ship-to-ship LNG ) marine bunkering. The new service is for ocean-going and large-sized vessels, including BC Ferries ships .
• The project includes a 5-year construction period for building the needed infrastructure. The project's economic contribution was estimated at CAD 1,8 billion (to BC's GDP/during the construction) and an annual impact of CAD 930 million.
• State's LNG bunkering business was inaugurated in 2017. Currently, 5x Ro-Pax ships (BC Ferries) and two cargo ferries (Seaspan) are truck-fuelled with LNG by FortisBC. By the new project, large vessels are LNG-fuelled via barge, being filled up at a jetty on Fraser River (Tilbury Island).

Port's cruising season is May through late-September / early-October. Since 2008, the seaport voluntary purchases renewable / wind energy. At Canada Place terminal, port's cruise business generates (direct economic activity) an average of USD 3 million per visiting vessel. Ship types vary from large and mainstream to top-luxury and small expedition vessels. Inaugurated in 2009, Canada Place terminal's shore-to-ship power capabilities reduce significantly the amount of greenhouse gas emissions generated by visiting vessels. The new technology allows docked cruise ships to shut down completely their diesel engines and connect to BC Hydro’s electrical grid for all the needed onboard electrical power while berthed. The volume of reduced emissions per year is over 2200 tons. Approx 40% of all cruise vessels visiting the port are shorepower enabled. As incentives for using shorepower, the port offers 50% reduction in harbour dues.

In 2010, the port was visited by around 600,000 cruise ship tourists. In 2014 was closed the Ballantyne Pier terminal. Since then, Canada Place is city's only remaining cruise ship terminal.

In 2015, the cruise port handled a total of 228 ship visits (32 different vessels) and over 800,000 passengers. During season 2015, Princess Cruises introduced new roundtrip Vancouver itineraries to Hawaii and US West Coast (California) on Ruby Princess . Port's 2016 statistics included directly generated nearly 7,000 jobs (country-wide), USD 300 million in paid wages and USD 840 million to Canada's GDP.

On May 20, 2017, the cruise port reported a record day with 3 ship calls ( Emerald Princess , Star Princess , ms Nieuw Amsterdam ) and a total of 15,800 cruise tourists. Vancouver police units were assigned to direct traffic. The port authority warned of transportation delays. The record day resulted in hours-long waits at Canada Place terminal (for customs processing) and additional long waits for taxis. The taxicab problem was mainly due to the limited number of cab licenses issued in Vancouver City, as well as the local prohibition of ride-sharing services.

Over Canada Day 2017's long weekend (July 1, 2, 3), a fleet of 8 cruise ships came into Vancouver harbour docking at Canada Place. These ships ( Golden Princess / overnight, Star Princess , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Celebrity Infinity , Norwegian Sun , Crystal Serenity and Disney Wonder) had total economic impact on local businesses estimated at USD 24 million. It was based on the average USD 3 million per cruise liner ashore passenger spending (on restaurants, shopping, pre- and post-voyage hotel stays, local transportation, day tours). In 2017, the cruise port had scheduled a total of 236 ship calls (2% increase over 2016) and handled nearly 843,000 passengers (3% increase over 2016). During season 2017, the port had scheduled 33 different liners from the fleets of 15 different companies. The port's economic impact in 2017 is USD 3 million per ship call (including spending on tours, hotels, taxis, shopping, etc).

For season 2018, the cruise port reported a record year - 243 ship calls (7% increase over 2017), 33 different ships, 14 different companies, over 900,000 passengers. On May 23 was celebrated port's 25 millionth arriving cruise ship tourist. Port's largest liner so far is NCL's Norwegian Bliss (capacity 4200 passengers). NCL Bliss departed from Vancouver (Oct 1, 5-day repositioning cruise) to Los Angeles via San Francisco . Port's 1 millionth cruise passenger mark was reached in 2002 (1,060383 million).

In 2018-H1 (first half), port's containerized cargo volumes increased by 5% (over 2017-H1) to the record number 1,64 million TEU-containers. The increase was due to increasing international demand for Canadian goods and Canadian demand for Asian goods. Beside container shipping trade, port's results also showed:

• increase in potash (22,7%), autos (8%), coal (8,9%), forest (4%) and petroleum (40,2%) products
• decline in grain (10,2%, crops-feed), chemicals-minerals (5%), ores-concentrates (27,8%). Port's 2018-H1 cargo traffic (over 2017-H1) report included:
• Overall cargo increased 4,4% - to total 72,1 million tons.
• Auto units increased 8,3%, to total 236396.
• Breakbulk cargoes increased 14,4 % - to total 8,8 million tons, including 21,1% in domestic traffic.
• Drybulk cargoes increased 0,7%.
• Liquid bulk cargoes increased 28,3%, including 40,2% in petroleum products.
• TEU-container shipping increased 5,1% - to total 1,64 million.
• Cruise shipping traffic increased 12,7%.

For season 2019 (March 29 through November 1), the number of handled ship calls was 288 (+22% over 2018), with estimated 1,077 million passengers. Berth bookings 2019 were made by 24 brands/companies for 41 different vessels. New cruise lines included Azamara (ship Azamara Quest ), Cunard ( MS Queen Elizabeth ), Viking Ocean ( MS Viking Orion ) and Hurtigruten ( MS Roald Amundsen ). Other new liners (with maiden port calls) included Ovation OTS , Celebrity Eclipse , Norwegian Joy , Royal Princess , Star Legend , Silver Muse , L’Austral .

In mid-July 2020 was opened G3 Terminal Vancouver (grain export terminal, construction works started in March 2017.) featuring modern design, loop track elevators, a direct railway link for taking Canadian Prairies grain via trains (and loading it onto drybulk cargo ships), max capacity 3x 150-car trains and storage capacity 180,000 MT (metric tonnes). Trains unload while in motion and go back to the terminal’s elevators without detaching from the locomotives. At G3’s berth/dock are installed 3x loaders that move the grain (max capacity 6500 tons per hour) onto the ship. G3 Terminal Vancouver is a joint-venture between Western Stevedoring Company Ltd and G3 Global Holdings - a joint-venture between Bunge Ltd (US-based agribusiness and food company) and SALIC Canada Ltd (subsidiary of SALIC-Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company).

Despite the Coronavirus crisis, 2020 became a record-breaking year in Vancouver Port's 108-year history by revenues (~USD 50 million / ~EUR 42M) or 15% increase over 2019. Moved through the seaport were 7+ million MT (metric tonnes) of commodities, 5,4+ million MT of grain, 0,3+ million MT of copper concentrate, 2700+ wind turbines, ~90,000 automobiles.

For season 2022 (April 10 thru November 2) the cruise port handled 307 ship calls (+6,5% over 2019's 288 visits/~85% from homeported vessels, including 10x maiden calls and 18x shorepower berthings) and ~815,000 tourists.

2023 (April 12th thru October 24th) was Port Vancouver's record year, with booked a total of 332 cruise ship berthings (~9% increase over 2022) and ~1,25 million tourists (+54% over 2022 and +10% over 2019).

For 2024 (March 11th thru October 29th), the Port had scheduled/booked a total of 329 ship berthings, with projected ~1,27 million passengers to pass through the Canada Place Terminal (~2% increase over 2023).

In October 2023, Seaspan Vancouver Drydock (in North Vancouver/on 203 Esplanade E) received permit approval from the Port Authority to extend its drydock facilities and expand the infrastructure in order to be able to provide services (ship repairs and maintenance works) to larger vessels. The project included the extension of Seaspan's water lot by 130 ft/40 m and the addition of two new drydocks (smaller) plus a floating pontoon, located to the west of the old drydocks. The project's completion was slated for 2024-Q4.

Vancouver cruise terminal

Canada's Government established Port Metro Vancouver (locode CAVAN) in January 2008. Today, the Port is ranked North America's fourth-largest and Canada's largest by annually handled tonnage. Port Vancouver is in western Canada, at British Colombia’s southwestern corner. Its cruise schedule lists voyages from spring through fall, with vessels departing from Canada Place Ship Terminal.

The Terminal's address is "Canada Place Pier, 99 Canada Place Vancouver, BC, Canada".

Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal

The Canada Place Vancouver terminal was inaugurated on April 28, 1986. The facility's design features 5 sail-shaped roofs. Except the building, other facilities include VINCI Car Park, Port Metro Office, World Trade Center Office, Pan-Pacific Hotel.

At Canada Place Terminal are available restrooms, baggage trolleys, a snack shop. From the Terminal are directly accessed ship berths North (length 274 m / 900 ft), East (506 m / 1660 ft) and West (326 m / 1070 ft).

In May 2015, Canada Place Vancouver became the world's first cruise terminal with a total of 10x BorderXpress APC kiosks (abbrev "Automated Passport Control"). The project was a collaboration of Port Metro Vancouver and the Vancouver Airport Authority.

• In comparison to the traditional clearance process, the new computerized kiosks increased 4 times the terminal's passenger processing rates. The terminal's US Customs and Border Protection area is utilized prior to ship embarkation on Canada to Alaska cruise itineraries.
• Cruise tourists using BorderXpress APCs at Port Metro Vancouver proceed directly to the self-service kiosks in the passenger processing area. Then they simply have to follow the on-screen instructions, scan their passports and answer some customs declaration questions. Then embarking passengers receive a receipt that confirms their information and continue to a US Customs officer to finalize their processing.
• The overall result was increased efficiency, less congestion, faster customs processing and shorter wait times.
• Cruise passengers eligible for BorderXpress APCs are American and Canadian passport holders, as well as US Permanent Residents.
• The service is available at no cost to the user and pre-registration is not required.

Cruise terminal luggage storage and delivery

For cruise ship passengers in Vancouver, PorterGenie offers the only curbside luggage pick-up/delivery and storage service. Pick-up and delivery locations can be anywhere: Vancouver International Airport, hotels in the Metro Vancouver area, train and bus stations, etc. PorterGenie can pick-up your luggage from anywhere in Metro Vancouver, store as long as you need, and deliver it back to you anywhere you like.

You can use PorterGenie to transport your luggage from the airport to Canada Place Terminal or the other way around. You can schedule service online at www.portergenie.com or call PorterGenie toll-free at 1-888-411-5260. No payment is required for scheduling and cancellations are free. You are encouraged to schedule in advance before the busy season.

Ballantyne Pier Terminal

The Ballantyne terminal is located on 851 Centennial Road, Vancouver. It looks like a commercial dock after its 1995 renovation and extensions. Amenities include luggage carts, restrooms, snack concessions, security and taxi ranks. The berth is only one – East, 1200 ft.

• Address: Ballantyne Pier, 655 Centenniel Road, Vancouver, BC, Canada
• Parking:$15 Canadian daily ($10 US – depends on exchange rate).
• Vancouver's second cruise terminal (Ballantyne Pier) ceased operations in 2014.

Harbour Center Tower: enjoy beautiful city panorama from the 581 ft roof.

Gastown: located at the old Vancouver, nice and quiet place for a coffee.

Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden: the perfect equilibrium located at the city center, blended with the four elements, architecture and rock, plants and water.

Stanley Park: enjoy the native American Totem Poles and the Vancouver Aquarium in the biggest North America urban park.

Vancouver Aquarium: variety of sealife – dolphins, beluga whales, sea turtles and sea lions

Capilano Suspension Bridge: located over Capilano river, hundreds of feet tall.

Grouse Mountain: enjoy Wildlife Refuge situated on 5 acre with its wolves and bears.

Vancouver tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

RCI's Radiance of the Seas cruise cancelled after boarding due to technical issues

An RCI-Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise aboard the Radiance of the Seas was cancelled after guests had already boarded due to severe technical delays...

HAL-Holland America elevates Alaska cruising experience with 'Glacier Day' and enhanced programming

As part of its "We Love Alaska" onboard experience, HAL-Holland America Line is unveiling "Glacier Day" on its Alaska cruises, offering new...

Silversea expands pricing structure to offer more options

Silversea is expanding its fare options to cater to the diverse preferences of travelers, offering 3 distinct pricing structures. In addition to the...

Seabourn reveals segments for 2026 World Cruise aboard Seabourn Sojourn

Seabourn has unveiled 9 individual segments for sale for its 2026 World Cruise - Ring of Fire: Hidden Gems aboard the Seabourn Sojourn. These...

HAL-Holland America unveils 2025-2026 Mexico and Pacific Coast seasons

HAL-Holland America Line has launched its Mexico and Pacific Coast seasons for 2025-2026, offering extended visits to distinctive ports such as...

DCL-Disney Cruise Line's summer 2025 fleet deployment (Europe & Caribbean itineraries)

DCL-Disney Cruise Line has unveiled its summer 2025 itineraries, promising families unforgettable voyages to beloved destinations worldwide. Among...

HAL-Holland America unveils Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises for 2025-2026 season

HAL-Holland America Line has commenced bookings for its 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii voyages, offering departures from 5 USA homeports across a...

Canada Place Cruise Terminal (Vancouver BC) anticipates record year amid sustainability focus

Preliminary forecasts indicate another potentially record-breaking year for cruise passenger visits to Port Vancouver's Canada Place Terminal, as...

HAL-Holland America opens bookings for 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises

HAL-Holland America Line, renowned for its premium and destination-focused voyages, has commenced bookings for its 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii...

Princess Cruises celebrates Alaska's 65th anniversary with 55th anniversary season

In celebration of Alaska's 65th anniversary of statehood, Princess Cruises - Carnival Corporation's luxury brand renowned for its world...

•   show more news

Vancouver - user reviews and comments

Carnival cruise ship rescues nearly 30 people from adrift vessel

A Carnival Cruise Line ship rescued nearly 30 people who were stuck at sea on Sunday.

The crew on Carnival Paradise saved 28 Cuban nationals who were signaling for help on a vessel that was adrift around 2:30 p.m. The cruise ship was headed from Tampa, Florida, to Roatan in Honduras at the time.

“The bridge team onboard spotted the vessel and turned the ship around to rescue them,” Carnival said in a news release . “All were taken aboard, given food and were seen by the medical team.” The cruise line also notified the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Key West and officials in Roatan.

The Coast Guard did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment.

The ship was set to visit Roatan on Monday. Carnival Paradise is on a five-day Caribbean cruise that departed from Tampa on Saturday, according to CruiseMapper .

The news comes after Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex ship rescued seven people in a small vessel adrift between Cuba and Mexico earlier this month. Another Carnival ship, Carnival Jubilee, also rescued two people stuck in a kayak off the coast of Mexico’s Isla Mujeres in January.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Rhode Island children stranded in Mexico after medical emergency

by LEANNA FAULK, NBC 10 NEWS

(WJAR) — Two Rhode Island children are stranded in Mexico after a medical emergency abroad a cruise ship.

Sarah Martin sent her kids on a spring break cruise vacation with their grandparents, which was smooth sailing until their grandmother had a heart attack.

Now, her kids are stuck in Mexico with no passport, and no way to get to home.

"They were having the time of their lives just having so much fun," said Martin.

The fun stopped when she said their grandmother suffered a heart attack.

According to Martin, she was too critical to return to their original port of Miami.

The family was rushed to a local hospital in Cozumel where their grandmother remains in a medically-induced coma.

"They keep on asking me the same thing, mommy, how am I gonna get back to you? And it's just really sad because I don't have an answer," said Martin.

• MORE NEWS: Riverside business seeks local support amid Washington Bridge traffic

Some cruises that begin and end in the United States do not require guests to have a passport, however they are encouraged.

Now, Martin is begging the US Embassy for a lifeline to allow them to fly home.

"The US Embassy was misinformed on all of the options that we had. Nobody would help me," she said.

Martin said her 8-year-old son is days away from finishing his epilepsy medication.

"I don't want him to you know, join as his grandmother at the hospital," she said.

"I can fall down and crumble when they're not on camera. But when I'm on camera with them. I have a brave face, and I think it's helping them be brave."

An hour after NBC 10 reached out to Carnival Cruise, Martin said the company called her and confirmed they were in contact with the Embassy.

She said they are working to get her kids on a flight home as soon as Tuesday.