Adjustments to cruise itineraries due to weather
Cruise companies frequently alter itineraries because of weather. They may omit a port of call, return a ship early, or keep it offshore. It’s not unusual for cruises destined for the Caribbean from New York to instead head for New England or Canada. Occasionally, ports are skipped when conditions are not favorable for safe docking.
In some instances, cruise lines opt to keep their vessels safe from potential harm. A case in point is Margaritaville at Sea, which had to postpone the return of Islander from August 4 to August 5 because of an approaching storm. This decision afforded passengers on the first cruise an additional day at sea, while those on the subsequent cruise lost both a day and their Key West stop. Arriving home a day late can result in missed flights, issues with pets or childcare, and disruption to work schedules. Additionally, passengers flying in will incur extra accommodation and dining costs.
It is relatively common for cruises to return a day late or to delay their departure times. Such measures are taken for safety, with cruise lines remaining mindful of the difficulties they may inadvertently cause for their guests.
Carnival’s extraordinary choice and passenger refunds
Carnival Cruise Line, however, took a rare step due to Tropical Storm Debby — it is returning Carnival Elation from its ongoing cruise a day earlier than planned and setting sail on the next one a day ahead of the original schedule.
Carnival Brand Ambassador John Heald announced this information on his Facebook page.
“Crucial Update for Carnival Elation Guests. Carnival Elation passengers: please check your email or await your text notification. Monday’s embarkation has shifted to Sunday to evade the storm,” he stated.
This news is quite surprising, as cruise lines typically delay sailings or conclude them early, but rarely advance them. This is often due to many passengers flying in for their voyages. While some may arrive a night in advance, it may still not be sufficient time to board the ship before it closes its doors.
Carnival made this choice because leaving the ship in port during a storm is not safe. Instead, it will navigate the vessel, its crew, and any passengers who can make it, away from potential hazards. Unfortunately, those passengers who are unable to board will miss out, but the cruise line is prioritizing the safety of everyone involved.
In a follow-up post, Heald adopted a more direct tone than usual. He rebuked “P” for creating “random speculation out of thin air and claiming ‘Carnival should feel ashamed for doing this without offering everyone free cruises.’”
Carnival intends to address the concerns of affected passengers.
“I won’t disclose all the specifics of our plans here, but if individuals can’t get to the ship a day early, they will receive a full refund. Those who can make it will enjoy an extra day of cruising at no additional cost. Additionally, passengers whose cruise is shortened for their safety will also receive a refund for a day,” he wrote.
Heald acknowledged that most people were understanding but took issue with those who were not.
“To the handful of individuals who shared nonsensical comments yesterday, none of whom were actually on the cruise, I hope you wake up, brew a fresh cup of Folgers, and find a reason to be cheerful, FFS,” he expressed. “And sincerely, to everyone currently on board or joining us today, thank you for your understanding, and I know you will have had, will have, FUN while we ensure your safety.”
In Heald’s vernacular, FFS means “for fun’s sake.”
