Class Afloat takes this opportunity to inform current and prospective families that we continue to actively monitor the evolving situation relating to the spread of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) on both a global and local scale.
The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to advise against “the application of travel or trade restrictions” except in relation to specific locations where local authorities have implemented travel restrictions as part of a local containment strategy in infected communities. Detailed information is available on the WHO website.
In addition, Class Afloat follows the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidance on operational considerations for preventing and managing COVID-19 on ships,
Please be assured that Class Afloat continues to monitor any risk posed by COVID-19. As always, the safety of our crew remains our top priority.
Onboard, Class Afloat staff continue to stress the importance of healthy hygiene practices, particularly hand-washing, coughing and sneezing etiquette, etc. Students exhibiting symptoms of illness will be seen by the Medical Officer and brought to local clinics as required.
Will COVID-19 affect Class Afloat programming?
Class Afloat is closely monitoring the local situation in ports that remain on our 2020-2021 itinerary. At present, Health Canada has not issued any travel advisory warnings for our remaining five ports of call. Should concerns arise in any port on our itinerary, we will assess and, if necessary, revise our route accordingly.
In past years, we have adjusted our itinerary to avoid areas at risk for infectious disease:
- 2014 – rerouted around West Africa in response to Ebola outbreak
- 2011 – rerouted around Haiti in response to Cholera outbreak
In both cases, the itinerary was re-routed to alternative ports and the program continued without interruption.
Please note that, as of now, the same precautions will be in place for ports currently listed as part of our 2020-2021 route.
If you have concerns about COVID-19 as it pertains to Class Afloat, please do not hesitate to contact us at any time.
