The Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Sky, and Norwegian Joy have all been impacted by Hurricane Ernesto. The Breakaway has shifted its Eastern Caribbean itinerary to the Western Caribbean, making stops in Roatan, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and the line’s private island in Belize, Harvest Caye. The Sky’s route has also changed to the Western Caribbean, with additional stops in Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios, Jamaica. The Joy’s Bermuda cruise has been altered to arrive one day earlier, with an overnight stay in Bermuda.
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has adjusted its itinerary to the Western Caribbean, visiting Cozumel, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras; and Costa Maya, Mexico instead of the Eastern Caribbean. The Rhapsody of the Seas has reorganized its ports of call, including stops in Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; St. Johns, Antigua; Phillipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Other Cruise Lines
The Symphony of the Seas has replaced its stop in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic with a visit to Nassau, Bahamas. The Carnival Pride, sailing from Baltimore, had to depart Bermuda one day earlier than planned. The Carnival Magic, on an Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami, canceled a visit to San Juan and added a stop in Nassau.
All of these changes in cruise itineraries are a result of Hurricane Ernesto’s impact on the Caribbean region. Cruise lines are prioritizing the safety and well-being of their passengers and crew by making these adjustments to avoid the storm’s path. While these alterations may be disappointing to some passengers who were looking forward to specific destinations, it is crucial for the cruise lines to take proactive measures in response to severe weather conditions.
It is important for travelers to remain flexible and understanding during these situations. Cruise lines are doing their best to provide alternative experiences and ensure that passengers have a safe and enjoyable journey despite the challenges posed by hurricanes and other natural disasters. Ultimately, safety should always be the top priority when it comes to cruising in potentially hazardous weather conditions.