Whale watching expeditions have been one of the hardest hit industries in the local tourism sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. Closed borders to the US and non-Atlantic provinces have inevitably led to many reservation cancellations for the season. Social distancing requirements also mean boats can't operate at full capacity. This has inspired some local whale-watching tour operators to innovate by offering bubble boat rides.

"We are offering deals to groups of close friends and family who share a bubble," said Joanne Carney of Jolly Breeze Whale Adventures. Jolly Breeze Whale Adventures is located in Saint Andrews, a town that has been proactive in addressing COVID-19 since the early days of lockdown. With the busy summer months upon us, Saint Andrews is taking extra measures to ensure public safety this tourism season.

"We have a full-time sanitation team cleaning surfaces in public spaces, as well as hand sanitizer dispensers located around town," said Town of Saint Andrews CAO Chris Spear. Saint Andrews has also launched the Water Street Pilot Project. Temporary barriers are now being employed to expand the width of the sidewalk area, turning downtown Water Street from Edward to Frederick into a no parking zone with one-way only traffic.

A report will be developed with the Chamber of Commerce, the BIA and Town staff to review the project after one month. Town council can stop the project if the report deems it is unsuccessful.

Canada Day festivities across New Brunswick will look a lot different this year. Parades have been cancelled due to social distancing requirements, and the provincial government is also asking New Brunswickers to refrain from setting off fireworks. A lack of rainfall so far this summer has left the forests dry and susceptible to fire.

Due to COVID-19, the annual Canada Day concert at KIRA Amphitheatre in Saint Andrews will also have a different format this year. Instead of having the audience watching from the amphitheatre, the live show, headlined by comedian James Mullinger, can watched instead from your own living room right on CHCO-TV.