Cyclone Alfred causes major delays for Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruises
US cruise ships stranded at sea after trips canceled due to cyclone impact in Australia. The impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred are likely to last longer as it lingers off the coast of Brisbane.
The world's largest cruise companies, Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, both based in the United States, have faced disruptions to their global operations following the arrival of Cyclone Alfred in Australia. These companies, which dominate the ocean travel industry with a strong presence in U.S. ports such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Seattle, have had to cancel itineraries in the South Pacific region due to adverse weather conditions.
Tropical Storm or Cyclone Alfred, a category two storm, is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding, and high winds to the Queensland city of Brisbane. The restrictions imposed by Australian maritime authorities due to extreme weather conditions have caused unexpected changes in the schedules of various vessels, affecting hundreds of passengers who were waiting to disembark in the coming days.
Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruises cancelled-ships stranded at sea
The affected ships, which operate seasonally in Brisbane, have been stranded offshore after authorities closed the port for safety reasons. The situation has impacted hundreds of passengers and created logistical complications for the industry. The suspension of these voyages adds to a series of challenges that the cruise industry has faced in recent years. These range from health restrictions to age policy changes that impact its operations in various parts of the world, including the United States.
The companies Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean have confirmed the cancellation of trips scheduled for this weekend due to the impossibility of docking at the port. The restrictions affected both passengers waiting to disembark and those with reservations for new itineraries. According to CBS News, the Port of Brisbane will remain closed until at least March 8, depending on post-storm assessments.
Cyclone Alfred causes major delays
Cyclone Alfred is an unusual weather phenomenon in this region of Australia. According to The Weather Network, the last time Brisbane faced a cyclone of this magnitude was in 1974. Local authorities have taken preventative measures, such as evacuating vulnerable communities, closing schools and suspending public transport.
The reopening of the Port of Brisbane could occur on March 8, although this will depend on the assessment of damage after the storm passed. The Australian Meteorological Office has warned that the impact of the cyclone could extend beyond Brisbane, affecting coastal communities in New South Wales. Alerts have been issued for possible landslides and river flooding in the region.
Compensation for Carnival and Royal Caribbean passengers?
Port restrictions have also forced the cancellation of weekend cruises scheduled for March 6 and 7. Both Carnival and Royal Caribbean have informed passengers that they will receive full refunds, including non-refundable deposits and advance purchases. Furthermore, Royal Caribbean has offered credits for future reservations, with amounts ranging between USD 150 and USD 400 depending on the category of the reserved cabin.
In addition to refunds, Royal Caribbean has given free internet access to passengers stranded on Quantum of the Seas. Drink and food packages have also been extended at no additional cost, with the aim of mitigating the effects caused by the storm.