New US rule could drastically change cruise itineraries
US officials are working on a proposed rule that could dramatically alter the itineraries of many foreign-flagged cruise ships such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines.
The new proposals would require much longer port stays. The changes would require 48-hour stays instead of the usual four to 12-hour visits at foreign ports of call.
“It is aimed at helping the US-flagged ships operated by Norwegian Cruise Lines America on Hawaiian cruises compete with foreign-flagged cruise lines sailing from California,†say wire reports.
Virtually all cruise ships operating from US ports are registered in foreign nations to avoid the cost of meeting American labor, environmental and other costs.
But the impact could have much broader implications, imperiling cruises from US ports to Alaska, Canada, New England and some to the Caribbean, complain critics.
Cruise vacationers may find companies offering more limited itineraries and fewer three-and-four-day trips.
Report by David Wilkening
Chitra Mogul
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