Unexpected Changes Spark Passenger Protest
Passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas recently found themselves in an unexpected situation. The ship’s planned visit to the Hubbard Glacier, a highlight for many on an Alaska cruise, was suddenly removed from the itinerary. This change led to a protest, with passengers chanting “We Want Hubbard” and gathering around guest services. Videos and accounts of the protest quickly spread across social media, although Royal Caribbean has yet to comment on the incident.
Itinerary Adjustments Announced
The change was communicated to guests through a letter delivered to their staterooms. The notice explained that due to scheduling adjustments, the ship would spend a full day at sea instead of visiting the glacier. This decision was made to ensure a timely arrival into Whittier. The cruise, which departed from Vancouver on 15th May, was on a seven-night journey with stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, and Skagway before reaching Whittier on 22nd May.
Homeport Change Causes Scheduling Issues
The cancellation of the glacier visit seems to have been triggered by a previous operational change. Royal Caribbean had to switch the cruise’s arrival port from Seward to Whittier due to redevelopment work at Seward’s facilities. The captain later explained that increased marine traffic and the narrow approach into Whittier created scheduling constraints. The ship needed to arrive around 1am to prepare for disembarkation, as Whittier’s geography and the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel present logistical challenges.
Logistical Challenges in Whittier
Whittier’s unique location requires careful planning for traffic entering and leaving the area. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel operates on a scheduled basis, allowing one-way traffic movements. For a ship carrying up to 4,905 passengers, an early arrival was necessary to manage luggage handling, customs, and disembarkation efficiently. Guests were expected to start leaving the ship around 6am.
Glacier Visit: A Key Attraction
For many travellers, the Hubbard Glacier is a major draw of an Alaska cruise. Unlike a missed port stop, the glacier is a renowned tidewater glacier and a significant attraction. Cruise lines typically reserve the right to alter itineraries due to operational issues or unforeseen circumstances. However, this provision did little to alleviate the disappointment among some passengers. The glacier experience is often a crucial factor in booking an Alaska cruise, making its cancellation particularly frustrating for those onboard.
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