Northwest Passage Traffic Increases

From 2013 to 2019, the number of ships sailing in Northwest Passage waters increased by 44 percent, from 112 to 160 unique vessels, according to Nunatsiaq News, citing a new report from the Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment working group, known as PAME.

More dramatic was the increase in overall miles distance traveled in the region, which more than doubled from 2013 to 2019, the report found. In aggregate, the ships traveled 2,980 nautical miles in 2013, but that figure jumped to 6,170 nautical miles in 2019.

The report uses information collected by PAME’s Arctic Ship Traffic Data project. Bulk carriers and other types of cargo ships dominate the traffic, according to the report. 

The Canadian government banned the entry of large cruise ships into its waters in 2020 and placed additional restrictions on passenger and pleasure vessels using Arctic waters. In February, Canada extended that ban to 2022. Among other provisions, it prohibits passenger vessels carrying more than 12 people from using Arctic waters.