Hurricane Erin Disrupts Cruise Itineraries
Hurricane Erin is causing significant disruptions for cruise travellers across the Atlantic and Caribbean. Several major cruise lines have had to adjust their itineraries to ensure the safety of guests and crew. The storm, which briefly intensified to a Category 5 with winds reaching 160 miles per hour, has impacted voyages for Carnival, Norwegian, MSC Cruises, Holland America Line, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean.
Carnival Sunshine’s New Route
Carnival Sunshine passengers, who boarded in Norfolk on 17th August, anticipated a 6-night journey to Bermuda. However, due to the storm, the ship is now heading south to Celebration Key and Nassau. All Bermuda excursions have been refunded, and new tour options are available for the revised destinations.
MSC World America Heads to Mexico
MSC’s latest ship, World America, has had to alter its inaugural season itinerary. Originally set to visit Amber Cove and San Juan, the ship will now call at Costa Maya and Cozumel. Ocean Cay remains on the schedule before the ship returns to Miami. Passengers have received refunds for cancelled excursions, with new tours open for booking.
Norwegian Aqua’s Canadian Detour
Guests on Norwegian Aqua’s 4-night cruise from New York were expecting a trip to Bermuda. Instead, the ship is heading north to Saint John, New Brunswick. Norwegian is offering passengers onboard credit and a 20% Future Cruise Credit. However, docking in Saint John will depend on the final weather conditions.
Zuiderdam’s Extended Halifax Stay
Holland America Line’s Zuiderdam, on a transatlantic voyage, has cancelled its overnight stop in St. John’s, Newfoundland, due to rough seas. Instead, the ship will enjoy an extended stay in Halifax before continuing to Boston.
Norwegian Jewel’s Early Departure
Norwegian Jewel, departing from Boston, arrived in Bermuda as planned but left a day early. This decision was made to maintain a safe distance from the approaching storm before returning to New England.
Liberty of the Seas’ Nova Scotia Visit
Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas was scheduled for an overnight stay in Bermuda. Instead, the ship sailed north to Halifax. Guests received onboard credit to compensate for the change in itinerary.
Disney Treasure’s Western Caribbean Adventure
Disney Cruise Line has rerouted its newest ship, Disney Treasure, away from the Eastern Caribbean. The ship will now follow a Western Caribbean itinerary, steering clear of Erin’s path.
Safety First: How Cruise Lines Manage Hurricanes
While these changes may be disappointing, safety is the top priority for cruise lines. Cruise ships are among the safest places during a storm. They rarely, if ever, sail into hurricanes. Instead, they reroute to calmer waters or adjust itineraries to ensure passenger safety. With average speeds exceeding 20 knots, ships can quickly move out of harm’s way.
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