Norwegian Prima Incident: Breaks Moorings at Port Canaveral Embarkation

Unexpected Winds Challenge Norwegian Prima’s Departure

Norwegian Prima’s journey from Port Canaveral on 18th January 2026 began with an unexpected twist. As guests were boarding, sudden gusts of wind caused the ship’s mooring lines to snap. This incident occurred around 2 pm, hours before the planned 6 pm departure.

Weather Conditions Take a Turn

Initially, the morning weather was calm, with winds at a gentle 5 to 7 miles per hour. However, as a cold front swept through central Florida, conditions worsened. By 9 am, winds had increased to 15 to 20 miles per hour. Just before 2 pm, gusts reached up to 48 miles per hour, with steady winds at 30 to 35 miles per hour.

Swift Response Ensures Safety

The intensifying winds put a strain on the mooring lines, causing them to snap. This allowed the 143,535-gross-ton ship to drift slightly from the pier. Quick action was taken as tugboats moved in to stabilise the vessel. They guided Norwegian Prima back to the dock, where new lines were attached.

Onboard Announcements and Passenger Reactions

Passengers heard “Code Echo” over the public address system. This alert informed the crew of high winds affecting operations. Despite the disruption, the ship was never fully adrift or in danger. No injuries or damage occurred. One passenger shared on social media, “Things seem to be good now, but that was a fun start before we actually get started!”

Embarkation Resumes Smoothly

Embarkation and luggage delivery were briefly paused during the incident. Once the ship was securely re-moored, operations resumed. The ship departed on schedule later that evening.

Itinerary Stays on Course

Norwegian Prima was docked at Cruise Terminal 5 when the incident happened. Despite the brief interruption, the seven-night Caribbean cruise itinerary remained unchanged. The ship is set to visit Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, Montego Bay in Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel in Mexico. It will return to central Florida on 25th January.

Future Plans for Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima will continue to be homeported at Port Canaveral until mid-November. It offers a variety of Caribbean itineraries. Later in the year, the ship will reposition to San Juan for Eastern Caribbean sailings, including stops in Barbados. In April 2027, Norwegian Prima will head to Europe for the summer season before returning.