Port&nbsp;Charlottetown says it supports the federal government's decision to delay the beginning of cruise ship season&nbsp;in response to COVID-19.

Transport Minister Marc Garneau announced Friday that vessels visiting Canada&nbsp;carrying more than 500 passengers will not be allowed to dock from April 2 to July 1.&nbsp;

Port Charlottetown said it respects the decision and is taking direction from the Public Health Agency of Canada, as well as Transport Canada, regarding decisions at the port.&nbsp;

"We would like to ensure the public that this is top of mind for our operations and management team," Port Charlottetown said in a release.

"We understand this is a difficult time for our local community and most certainly the tourism industry, and want to ensure a level of confidence in our preparatory measures moving forward."

To protect Canadians, I announced today measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. This season, cruise ships will not be permitted to dock at Canadian ports from April 2 to July 1. In Northern and Arctic ports, the cruise ship season will be deferred for the entire season.

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P.E.I. Chief Public Health Officer Heather Morrison

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'We understand this is a difficult time for our local community and most certainly the tourism industry,' Port Charlottetown says. 

P.E.I. cruise ship season delayed after federal decision

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