KINGSTON, ON — St. Lawrence Cruise Lines has safely completed its 2020 fall cruise schedule, and says the future looks bright for small ship river cruising.

The cruise line operated a series of 4-night / 5-day cruises on the St. Lawrence River in September and October 2020. Jason Clark, President of St. Lawrence Cruise Lines, says the sailings got a positive response from Canadian travellers looking to experience the fall colours of Eastern Ontario and the Thousand Islands region.

“During the planning of our fall schedule, the well-being of our passengers and crew was our number one consideration, and we spared no expense in addressing health and safety for everyone on board,” said Clark. “We believe that the success of our fall cruise schedule proves that we can deliver a wonderful vacation on the St. Lawrence River with the highest levels of hospitality, while maintaining equally high standards of COVID-19 safety measures for everyone on board.”

Clark adds that the decision to offer the condensed fall schedule was driven by consumer demand and followed months of research and preparation on behalf of the cruise line to meet federal, provincial and municipal pandemic guidelines.

COVID-19 safety measures were present in all aspects of St. Lawrence Cruise Lines’ cruising experience, including passenger screening, reduced passenger loads, physical distancing and mask protocols, as well as a hospital-grade electrostatic disinfectant regime.

The line’s M/V Canadian Empress has 32 staterooms with twin fixed beds, private bathrooms, and access to fresh air and views of the river.

Clark cited some of the key points to the successful season as the result of an experienced crew and strong relationships with cruise partners along the St. Lawrence River.

“With 40 years of cruising experience, we have been able to develop strong partnerships that help us ensure that our cruises are safe and healthy for everyone,” he said. “Our crew was committed to our safety initiatives, and all of our partners – suppliers, bus companies, performers, and attractions – worked with us to go above and beyond in the name of safe and healthy cruising.”

Best of all, 98% of passengers surveyed after the cruise said they would travel with the company again.

Bookings for the 2021 season are already underway and travel agents can call 1-800-267-7868 for booking availability. Information on the cruise schedule, itineraries, and safety measures and itineraries is available at stlawrencecruiselines.com.