Holland America Lines\u0027 MV Koningsdam arrived in Vancouver Sunday signalling a start to rebuilding of Vancouver\u0027s hard\u002Dhit tourism industry.
Full Screen is not supported on this browser version.On ship, Holland America CEO Gus Antorcha said precautions include enhanced air filtration, UV lighting, crew monitoring, isolation cabins and full testing capabilities on board that have helped the company “operate safely,” since last July when it resumed Alaska cruises from Seattle.
Alghabra acknowledged that it has been “a very frustrating, full-of-anxiety couple of years, and the anxieties are not gone yet, I know,” but promised government and the industry are working to keep it safe. Merchants in popular tourist spots such as Gastown, hotels and restaurants, however, are welcoming the influx of tourists after a two-year absence.
By 3 p.m., Kauldhar had already done four or five airport trips, when during COVID times he was used to waiting 45 minutes to pick up any fare. He guessed business was down by half during the pandemic.