Cruise lines adjust schedules as tropical storms threaten ports
Weather-related changes can include skipped calls, replacement destinations, reordered itineraries and delayed departures or returns.
Cruise lines monitor tropical systems and assess potential effects on ships and ports, changing itineraries when weather presents a clear safety threat. Royal Caribbean may skip ports, substitute destinations, reorder calls or adjust departure and return times when a hurricane threatens a voyage.
Spectrum of the Seas, which had been scheduled to return to Shanghai on Aug. 8, was delayed by Typhoon Dolphin and the resulting closure of the Port of Shanghai. The subsequent cruise was postponed until Aug. 11 and removed several ports because of the shortened schedule.
Disney Cruise Line also canceled a Disney Wish sailing during Hurricane Milton because of anticipated effects at Port Canaveral.
Travel insurance coverage can depend on when a policy is purchased. InsureMyTrip CEO Suzanne Morrow said a hurricane becomes a known event once it is named, meaning policies bought afterward will not cover cancellations or disruptions connected to that storm. Cancel for Any Reason add-ons generally reimburse 50% to 75% of eligible expenses and typically require travelers to cancel at least 48 hours before departure.