Several ships from various major cruise companies/brands encountered significant itinerary changes as severe weather conditions affected areas from the Bahamas to South Florida, extending up to NYC New York.
PortMiami Florida temporarily closed to cruise traffic on Sunday, December 17, reopening early in the afternoon. An announcement on Sunday informed passengers of delays due to recent weather conditions, urging them to contact their respective cruise lines for instructions.
Sky Princess ship, operated by Princess Cruises, had to alter a 7-night Eastern Caribbean itinerary due to rough sea conditions. Captain Fotezze rerouted the liner along the Old Bahama Channel towards San Juan Puerto Rico, bypassing Princess Cays/private resort for safety reasons.
CCL-Carnival Cruise Line's ship Carnival Freedom canceled all call ports of a 4-night Bahamas itinerary, replacing Freeport with an unplanned sea day. Passengers received compensation, including a US$200 OBC/onboard credit per stateroom and a 50% FCC/future cruise credit.
MSC Meraviglia adjusted the route from NYC to northern destinations (Boston, Portland ME, St John) due to stormy weather in Florida and the Bahamas.
RCI-Royal Caribbean modified itineraries for Allure of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas. Allure OTS sought shelter between islands for guest comfort, while Mariner OTS changed route to Costa Maya Mexico.
Severe weather also impacted HAL-Holland America's vessel ms Nieuw Amsterdam, shortening its post-drydock service by two days, which resulted in significant itinerary changes.
Margaritaville at Sea Paradise canceled the December 15th sailing, advising guests to contact the company for updates and rebooking options.