Policy issues in cruise line operations on the Great Lakes

Abstract

The worldwide cruise industry has seen remarkable growth since the 1970s. Cruising on the Great Lakes, however, has been somewhat sporadic and is far from reaching full market potential. The Great Lakes is a cruise region that is unique from an operational viewport because while serving two nations, it has no international waters. This paper examines the historical and current impact on Great Lakes cruising of United States and Canadian policies that are embodied in laws and regulations. An analysis is made of the limitations and opportunities these regulations have on the future expansion of this cruise market. Recommendations are made on how the goals of the nations' policies could be met while reducing regulatory constraints.This research project will publish and present a paper on US and Canadian maritime policies impacting the cruise industry on the Great Lakes