There are 3 cruise ships which arrive in Victoria on Saturday evening.  The “Norwegian Pearl”, the “Ruby Princess” and ourselves.  We are in convoy, likes ducks in a row down the Juan de Fuca Straits and our turn north towards Victoria.

Normally, the “Pearl” enters first, however she was late and we took lead, followed by the “Ruby” and finally the “Pearl” We 3 and others, call in Victoria, Canada for a purpose and not only because it’s a wonderful destination.  We also have to comply with the Jones Act.

This Act or Merchant Marine Act of 1920  is a United States federal statute that provides for the “promotion and maintenance of the American merchant marine”. Among other purposes, the law regulates maritime commerce in U.S. waters and between U.S. ports. Section 27 requires that all goods transported by water between U.S. ports be carried on U.S.-flag ships, constructed in the United States, owned by U.S. citizens, and crewed by U.S. citizens and U.S. permanent residents. The Act was introduced by Senator Wesley Jones.

In short, any non-American vessel may not provide transport for cargo or passengers from one American port to another American port.  This is why we call in Canada, before arriving back in the U.S. and other ships call in say, Ensenada, Mexico,  after a cruise to Hawaii.

It was a beautiful evening, the car park crowded with not only buses and taxis, but locals too.  Every Saturday they have a Classic car rally and many come just for a stroll around the harbour, which is always ‘bustling’.

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