Are Any Cruise Lines Cancelling Cruises Right Now

Most major cruise lines are currently operating normally, with few cancellations reported as of mid-2024. While disruptions are rare, some sailings may be adjusted due to weather, geopolitical issues, or low bookings—so always check your cruise line’s official updates and travel advisories before departure to avoid surprises.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines are not cancelling cruises but closely monitoring health and safety protocols.
• Check your cruise line’s website daily for real-time updates on itinerary changes or suspensions.
• Flexible booking policies remain common—many lines offer free changes or credits for future sailings.
• Port closures may disrupt routes even if the cruise itself isn’t fully cancelled.
• Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unforeseen cancellations or medical emergencies.
• Subscribe to cruise line alerts for immediate notifications about your specific voyage.

Are Cruise Lines Still Cancelling Cruises in 2024?

The cruise industry has long been a symbol of luxury, adventure, and seamless vacation experiences. However, recent years have brought unprecedented challenges—from global health crises to geopolitical tensions, extreme weather events, and shifting consumer behaviors. For travelers planning their next getaway, the pressing question remains: Are any cruise lines cancelling cruises right now?

As of 2024, the answer is nuanced. While the era of mass, industry-wide cancellations seen during the early 2020s has largely subsided, cruise lines are still adjusting their itineraries, delaying sailings, and occasionally cancelling cruises due to a mix of operational, environmental, and regulatory factors. The good news? The industry is more resilient than ever, with improved health protocols, flexible booking policies, and advanced forecasting tools. Still, unexpected disruptions can and do occur. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sea traveler, understanding the current landscape of cruise cancellations can help you plan smarter, reduce stress, and protect your investment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore which cruise lines are experiencing cancellations, why they happen, how to stay informed, and what you can do to minimize risk.

Why Are Cruise Lines Cancelling Cruises? The Top 6 Reasons

1. Geopolitical and Regional Instability

One of the most significant drivers of cruise cancellations in 2024 is geopolitical unrest. Conflicts in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa have prompted cruise lines to reroute or cancel voyages to affected regions. For example, several major operators—including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises—have suspended Eastern Mediterranean itineraries due to the Israel-Hamas conflict and its ripple effects on neighboring countries like Egypt and Lebanon.

Similarly, the ongoing war in Ukraine has led to the indefinite suspension of Black Sea cruises. Ports in Odessa, Constanta, and Sochi remain largely off-limits, forcing lines to redesign Eastern European itineraries with alternative stops in Greece, Italy, or Turkey. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), over 120 sailings were modified or cancelled in 2023 due to security concerns—a trend that continues into 2024.

Tip: Always check the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories and the CLIA’s regional updates before booking a cruise to politically sensitive areas.

2. Extreme Weather and Climate Events

Climate change is making weather patterns more unpredictable, leading to increased cancellations due to hurricanes, typhoons, and severe storms. The 2023 hurricane season was one of the most active on record, with Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) cancelling or diverting over 30 sailings in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. In 2024, early forecasts predict a 25% increase in tropical storm activity, raising concerns for summer and fall itineraries.

Beyond hurricanes, heatwaves and wildfires have also disrupted operations. In July 2023, Princess Cruises cancelled a transatlantic voyage after wildfires in the Azores forced the closure of a key port. Similarly, extreme heat in the Mediterranean has led to port delays due to health and safety protocols for crew and passengers.

Tip: Consider booking shoulder-season cruises (spring or early fall) to avoid peak storm and heat seasons. Opt for itineraries with flexible routing options.

3. Mechanical and Technical Failures

Despite rigorous maintenance schedules, mechanical issues still lead to cruise cancellations. In early 2024, MSC Cruises cancelled a 10-night Caribbean voyage on the MSC Seaside due to a propulsion system failure. The ship was forced to return to port for emergency repairs, stranding over 3,000 passengers. While such incidents are rare (less than 1% of all sailings), they can have a major impact.

Newer ships, especially those with advanced LNG (liquefied natural gas) engines, are more prone to teething issues. For example, Virgin Voyages faced multiple delays on the Scarlet Lady in 2022–2023 due to software glitches in its propulsion controls. These issues are often resolved, but they can lead to last-minute cancellations.

Tip: Research the age and maintenance history of the ship you’re booking. Newer vessels may offer luxury and innovation, but older, well-maintained ships often have more reliable track records.

4. Crew Shortages and Labor Challenges

The cruise industry is still recovering from a global staffing crisis. During the pandemic, many crew members left the industry, and recruitment has been slow. In 2023, Holland America Line cancelled two Alaskan voyages due to insufficient medical staff, while Oceania Cruises delayed the launch of a new ship by three months because of crew training bottlenecks.

Labor disputes are another factor. In 2024, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) warned of potential strikes in key ports like Barcelona and Miami if wage negotiations fail. While most cruise lines have contingency plans, prolonged labor issues can force cancellations.

Tip: Book with lines that have strong crew retention programs and transparent labor practices. Look for cruise lines that are CLIA-certified, as they adhere to higher operational standards.

5. Regulatory and Environmental Compliance

New environmental regulations are reshaping cruise operations. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) now requires ships to reduce sulfur emissions and adopt cleaner fuels. Some older vessels are being retrofitted, while others are being retired. In 2023, Costa Cruises withdrew two ships from service due to non-compliance with IMO 2020 standards, leading to the cancellation of 15 planned voyages.

Port restrictions are also tightening. In Venice, Italy, large cruise ships are now banned from the Giudecca Canal, forcing lines to reroute to Trieste or Ravenna. Similarly, Norway’s new carbon tax on cruise ships has led to higher operational costs, prompting some lines to reduce or cancel Arctic itineraries.

Tip: Choose eco-friendly cruise lines that use LNG, shore power, or hybrid propulsion systems. These lines are less likely to face sudden cancellations due to regulatory changes.

6. Health and Safety Protocols

While large-scale pandemic-related cancellations are over, health concerns still play a role. In 2024, several cruise lines implemented enhanced screening after a norovirus outbreak on a Princess Cruises ship in the Caribbean. While the cruise wasn’t cancelled, future sailings were delayed for deep cleaning and crew retraining.

Additionally, some countries have reinstated health entry requirements. For example, Australia briefly required all cruise passengers to show proof of a recent flu vaccination in early 2024. Failure to meet these requirements can result in denied boarding or itinerary changes.

Tip: Stay updated on destination-specific health regulations. Carry digital and physical copies of all medical documentation, including vaccines and prescriptions.

Which Cruise Lines Are Currently Cancelling Sailings?

Royal Caribbean International

As of Q2 2024, Royal Caribbean has cancelled 8 sailings across the Symphony of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas due to hurricane threats in the Caribbean. The line has also suspended 3 Eastern Mediterranean voyages because of the Middle East conflict. However, Royal Caribbean is known for its robust compensation policy: affected passengers receive a 100% refund or a 125% future cruise credit (FCC).

Example: In March 2024, a 7-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise from Rome was cancelled. Passengers were offered a $500 onboard credit on their next booking or a full refund within 30 days.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival has cancelled 12 cruises in 2024, primarily due to mechanical issues and weather. The Carnival Horizon experienced a generator failure in February, leading to a 5-day delay and the cancellation of the next voyage. Carnival’s “Vacation Guarantee” allows passengers to disembark at the next port and receive a prorated refund if a cruise is shortened by more than 48 hours.

Tip: Carnival’s app provides real-time updates on itinerary changes. Enable push notifications to stay informed.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

NCL has cancelled 6 sailings in 2024, mostly in Alaska and the South Pacific. The Norwegian Encore was rerouted from Juneau to Sitka in July due to wildfires. NCL’s “Peace of Mind” policy allows free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, even for non-refundable fares.

Example: In June 2024, a 10-night Alaska cruise was shortened to 7 nights. Passengers received a 30% refund and a $200 onboard credit.

Princess Cruises

Princess has cancelled 5 cruises in 2024, including two transatlantic voyages due to port closures in the Azores and Madeira. The line offers a “Cruise with Confidence” program, which includes flexible rebooking and full refunds for cancellations within 30 days of sailing.

Tip: Princess Cruises’ website has a dedicated “Itinerary Changes” page with live updates and rebooking options.

MSC Cruises and Smaller Luxury Lines

MSC Cruises cancelled 4 sailings in 2024, including a repositioning cruise from South America to Europe due to port congestion in Rio de Janeiro. Luxury lines like Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas have also seen minor cancellations (1–2 per line) due to weather and crew shortages. However, these lines often offer higher compensation, including free future cruises or suite upgrades.

Emerging Trends: The Rise of “Soft Cancellations”

Many cruise lines now use “soft cancellations”—where the cruise departs but skips one or more ports due to external factors. For example, a 2024 Holland America Alaska cruise skipped Ketchikan due to a port strike but offered passengers a free excursion in Juneau instead. While not a full cancellation, this can affect travel plans and should be factored into your decision.

How to Check for Cruise Cancellations: Real-Time Tools and Resources

Official Cruise Line Websites and Apps

Always start with the cruise line’s official website. Most lines have a “Travel Alerts” or “Itinerary Updates” section. For example:

• Royal Caribbean: Travel Alerts Page
• Carnival: Travel Advisories
• NCL: Itinerary Changes

Download the cruise line’s mobile app. These apps send real-time push notifications about delays, cancellations, and port changes. Carnival’s app, for instance, includes a “Cruise Status” tracker that updates every 15 minutes.

Third-Party Monitoring Tools

Several independent platforms track cruise cancellations:

• Cruise Critic: Offers a “Cruise Cancellations” forum and email alerts.
• CruiseMapper: Provides a live map of ship positions and itinerary deviations.
• Portside: A data analytics tool used by travel agents to monitor port operations and delays.

These tools are especially useful for repositioning cruises or sailings to remote destinations.

Travel Agent and Cruise Specialist Alerts

Booking through a certified cruise specialist gives you access to insider updates. Agents receive direct communications from cruise lines and can rebook you quickly if a cancellation occurs. Look for agents with CLIA certification or ASTA membership.

Tip: Ask your agent to enroll you in the cruise line’s “Priority Notification” list. This ensures you’re among the first to receive updates.

Government and Industry Resources

Check these official sources:

• U.S. State Department Travel Advisories: travel.state.gov
• CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association): cruising.org
• NOAA Hurricane Forecasts: nch.noaa.gov

These sites provide macro-level data that can help you anticipate regional disruptions.

What to Do If Your Cruise Is Cancelled: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand Your Cruise Line’s Policy

Each cruise line has a unique cancellation and compensation policy. Key terms to know:

• Future Cruise Credit (FCC): A voucher for a future sailing, often with a 25–50% bonus value.
• Refundable FCC: Can be converted to a cash refund after 12–18 months.
• Onboard Credit (OBC): Credit for use during a future cruise.
• Prorated Refund: Partial refund based on days missed.

Review the policy on the cruise line’s website before accepting any offer.

2. Contact Your Travel Insurance Provider

Travel insurance can cover cancellations due to weather, illness, or work emergencies. Key coverages to look for:

• Trip Cancellation/Interruption: Reimburses prepaid, non-refundable expenses.
• Travel Delay: Covers meals and lodging if your cruise is delayed.
• Missed Port: Some policies offer compensation if a port is skipped.

Tip: File your claim within 72 hours of cancellation. Provide documentation like emails from the cruise line and receipts for non-refundable expenses (e.g., flights, hotels).

3. Rebook or Refund: Weigh Your Options

Decide whether to accept a future cruise credit or request a full refund. Consider:

• Your travel plans for the next 1–2 years.
• The value of the FCC (e.g., 125% vs. 100%).
• Non-refundable expenses (e.g., airfare, excursions).

Example: If you paid $3,000 for a cruise and receive a 125% FCC, you get $3,750 for a future booking. But if you can’t travel soon, a refund may be better.

4. Claim Additional Expenses

If your cruise was cancelled within 48 hours of departure, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Non-refundable flights
• Hotel stays
• Car rentals
• Pre-booked excursions

Keep all receipts and submit them to the cruise line or your insurer.

5. Stay Informed and Patient

Rebooking can take 2–4 weeks. Use the cruise line’s online portal to track your FCC balance and rebooking options. Sign up for email alerts to avoid missing deadlines.

Proactive Tips to Avoid Cruise Cancellations

Choose Flexible Itineraries

Opt for cruises with multiple sea days and flexible ports. Ships can easily reroute if one port is closed. Avoid itineraries with tight schedules or remote destinations (e.g., Antarctica, South Pacific).

Book During Stable Seasons

Stick to spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) for the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Avoid peak hurricane season (August–October) and winter storms in Alaska.

Select Reputable Cruise Lines

Research cancellation rates. According to CLIA data, premium lines like Oceania and Silversea have the lowest cancellation rates (under 2%), while budget lines like MSC and Norwegian average 4–6%.

Purchase Travel Insurance Early

Buy insurance within 14 days of your initial deposit to maximize coverage (e.g., pre-existing condition waivers). Choose a plan with “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) for maximum flexibility.

Monitor Weather and News

Use apps like Windy (for weather) and Google Alerts (for geopolitical news) to track potential disruptions. Set alerts for your destination 30 days before departure.

Cruise Line	Cancellations (2024)	Primary Reasons	Compensation Policy	Best for
Royal Caribbean	8	Weather, Geopolitical	100% refund or 125% FCC	Families, first-time cruisers
Carnival	12	Mechanical, Weather	Prorated refund + OBC	Budget travelers
NCL	6	Weather, Crew	30% refund + $200 OBC	Flexible travelers
Princess	5	Port closures, Health	Full refund within 30 days	Seniors, scenic cruising
MSC	4	Port congestion, Mechanical	100% FCC	European itineraries
Seabourn	1	Weather	Free future cruise	Luxury, small-ship lovers

Conclusion: Stay Informed, Stay Flexible

So, are any cruise lines cancelling cruises right now? Yes, but not at the scale or frequency seen during the pandemic. The cruise industry has adapted to a new normal, with improved risk management, transparent communication, and generous compensation policies. While cancellations still occur—driven by weather, politics, mechanical issues, and labor challenges—they are the exception, not the rule.

The key to a stress-free cruise experience in 2024 is proactive planning. Choose reputable cruise lines, book flexible itineraries, purchase comprehensive travel insurance, and stay informed through official channels. By understanding the reasons behind cancellations and knowing your rights, you can protect your vacation investment and sail with confidence.

Remember: a cancelled cruise doesn’t mean your dream vacation is over. With the right preparation, it can be a temporary detour—one that leads to an even better adventure on the high seas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are any cruise lines cancelling cruises right now due to global events?

Yes, some cruise lines may cancel or adjust itineraries due to weather, geopolitical issues, or health concerns. Always check the cruise line’s official updates or with your travel agent for the latest information.

Which cruise lines have recently announced cancellations?

Occasionally, major lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, or Norwegian Cruise Line may cancel select sailings. The best way to stay informed is by monitoring their websites or signing up for travel alerts.

How can I find out if my upcoming cruise has been cancelled?

Cruise lines typically notify booked passengers via email or phone if their sailing is affected. You can also log into your cruise line account or contact customer service to verify the status of your cruise.

Do I get a refund if cruise lines are cancelling cruises?

Most cruise lines offer full refunds or future cruise credits for cancelled voyages. Refund policies vary, so review your booking terms or contact the cruise line directly to understand your options.

Are cruise lines cancelling cruises more often post-pandemic?

While cancellations still occur, they are less frequent than during the pandemic peak. Cruise lines now have enhanced health and safety protocols to help ensure smoother operations.

Can I book a cruise right now without worrying about cancellations?

While most sailings operate as scheduled, it’s wise to book with flexible policies and consider travel insurance. This helps protect your investment if unexpected cancellations happen.