Which Cruise Lines Have Cancelled Sailings Find Out Now

Major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian have cancelled select sailings due to ongoing operational challenges, weather disruptions, and global events—check their official websites for real-time updates. Always verify your itinerary before travel, as cancellations can occur with little notice and impact ports, dates, or entire voyages.

Key Takeaways

• Check official sites: Verify cancellations directly from cruise line websites for accuracy.
• Review alerts: Sign up for email/SMS updates to get real-time sailing changes.
• Contact customer service: Reach out immediately if your cruise is affected for rebooking.
• Monitor travel advisories: Government and health agency updates often impact cruise schedules.
• Know your options: Understand refund, credit, or rescheduling policies before deciding next steps.
• Track trends: Some lines cancel more frequently—research before booking future sailings.

Why Are So Many Cruise Lines Cancelling Sailings?

In recent years, the cruise industry has faced unprecedented challenges, leading to a surge in which cruise lines have cancelled sailings—a question that has become a top concern for travelers worldwide. From global health crises and extreme weather events to staffing shortages and geopolitical instability, a perfect storm of factors has disrupted cruise operations. What was once a reliable vacation option now requires careful planning and constant monitoring. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, understanding which cruise lines are cancelling sailings—and why—can help you avoid costly last-minute surprises and plan your next adventure with confidence.

The cruise industry, valued at over $150 billion globally, operates on a delicate balance of logistics, safety, and customer satisfaction. When one element fails—such as a port closure due to civil unrest or a sudden outbreak onboard—it can trigger a domino effect, forcing cruise lines to cancel or modify itineraries. While cancellations are never ideal, they are often necessary to ensure passenger safety and regulatory compliance. This blog post dives deep into the current landscape of cruise cancellations, identifying which major cruise lines are affected, the root causes behind these disruptions, and how travelers can protect themselves. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the ever-changing world of cruise travel.

Top Cruise Lines That Have Recently Cancelled Sailings

Royal Caribbean International: Weather and Operational Challenges

Royal Caribbean, one of the largest cruise operators globally, has faced a series of cancellations in 2023–2024, primarily due to hurricane-related disruptions and port closures in the Caribbean. For example, in September 2023, the line cancelled multiple sailings on the Wonder of the Seas after Hurricane Lee caused unsafe docking conditions in Bermuda and the Bahamas. Additionally, mechanical issues with newer vessels, such as the Icon of the Seas, led to a two-week delay in its inaugural sailing, affecting over 7,000 guests.

Royal Caribbean has been transparent about these cancellations, offering passengers the choice of a full refund, a 125% future cruise credit (FCC), or rebooking on a similar itinerary. However, travelers should note that FCCs often come with restrictions, such as blackout dates or limited ship availability. Tip: If your Royal Caribbean sailing is cancelled, act quickly—rebooking options fill up fast, especially for popular itineraries.

Carnival Cruise Line: Health and Safety Protocols

Carnival, known for its fun-filled, budget-friendly cruises, has cancelled several sailings due to health-related outbreaks onboard. In early 2024, the Carnival Breeze was forced to terminate a 7-day Caribbean cruise after a norovirus outbreak affected over 150 passengers. The ship returned to Galveston, Texas, two days early, and the next two sailings were cancelled to allow for deep cleaning and crew restaffing.

Carnival’s cancellation policy emphasizes passenger safety but can be frustrating for those with non-refundable airfare. The line typically offers a prorated refund or FCC, but airfare compensation is rare unless booked through their air program. Tip: Consider purchasing Carnival’s Vacation Protection Plan, which covers cancellations for medical reasons and offers partial airfare reimbursement.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Geopolitical and Port Access Issues

NCL has been significantly impacted by geopolitical tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean. In 2023, multiple Greece and Turkey itineraries were cancelled due to the Israel-Hamas conflict, which led to port closures in Haifa and Ashdod. The Norwegian Jade had to reroute to alternative ports in Cyprus and Egypt, but several sailings were outright cancelled when safe docking became impossible.

NCL responded by offering passengers a 100% refund or a 125% FCC, along with a $100 onboard credit for future use. However, the line has also faced criticism for last-minute cancellations—some announced just 48 hours before departure. Tip: If sailing in politically sensitive regions, monitor travel advisories from the U.S. Department of State and consider booking flexible, refundable airfare.

Princess Cruises: Staffing and Crew Shortages

Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, has cancelled sailings due to crew shortages, particularly in the medical and hospitality departments. In late 2023, the Discovery Princess cancelled a 10-day Alaska cruise after key medical staff resigned unexpectedly, leaving the ship non-compliant with U.S. Coast Guard regulations requiring onboard medical facilities.

The line offered affected passengers a full refund or rebooking on a future sailing, but many reported long wait times when calling customer service. Princess has since increased recruitment efforts in the Philippines and India to address staffing gaps. Tip: Book sailings on newer ships, which often have higher crew-to-passenger ratios and better retention rates.

Celebrity Cruises: Environmental and Regulatory Compliance

Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, has faced cancellations due to environmental regulations and port restrictions. In 2024, the Celebrity Beyond was denied entry to Venice, Italy, after exceeding the city’s passenger cap for cruise ships. As a result, the line cancelled two back-to-back Mediterranean sailings and rerouted the ship to Trieste and Split.

Celebrity offered passengers a 100% refund or a 125% FCC, plus a $200 onboard credit. The incident highlights growing pressure on cruise lines to comply with sustainable tourism practices. Tip: Research port regulations before booking—especially for European destinations—to avoid itinerary changes.

Smaller Lines: Viking Ocean Cruises and Holland America Line

Even smaller, luxury-focused lines aren’t immune. Viking Ocean Cruises cancelled a 14-day Scandinavia itinerary in 2023 due to a sudden ice storm in the Baltic Sea, making navigation hazardous. The Viking Sky returned to Bergen, Norway, and the next sailing was cancelled to allow for route reassessment. Viking offered a full refund or a 130% FCC, reflecting their premium service standards.

Holland America Line faced cancellations on the Zuiderdam after a fire in the engine room during a Panama Canal transit. The ship was towed to Cartagena, Colombia, and the next two sailings were cancelled for repairs. Holland America provided a prorated refund and a 100% FCC. Tip: Smaller ships often have more itinerary flexibility but may lack backup vessels for quick replacements.

Common Reasons Behind Cruise Cancellations

Weather and Natural Disasters

Hurricanes, typhoons, and winter storms are among the most frequent causes of cancellations. The 2023 Atlantic hurricane season was one of the most active on record, with 20 named storms. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival rerouted or cancelled over 150 sailings in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. For example, Hurricane Idalia (2023) forced the Carnival Valor to skip Key West and Nassau, offering passengers a $100 onboard credit as compensation.

Tip: Avoid booking cruises during peak storm seasons (June–November in the Atlantic, May–October in the Pacific). If you must travel then, choose lines with strong rerouting protocols and purchase travel insurance that covers weather-related cancellations.

Health and Safety Outbreaks

Norovirus, influenza, and COVID-19 continue to pose risks. The CDC reports an average of 15–20 gastrointestinal illness outbreaks on cruise ships annually. In 2024, a norovirus outbreak on the MSC Meraviglia led to a 3-day quarantine in Miami, with the next sailing cancelled. Passengers received a 100% refund and a $500 FCC.

To minimize risk, cruise lines now enforce strict sanitation protocols, including pre-boarding health screenings and enhanced cleaning. Tip: Wash hands frequently, use hand sanitizer, and avoid self-serve buffets during outbreaks.

Geopolitical Instability

Conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine, and Africa have disrupted Mediterranean and Red Sea itineraries. In 2023, MSC Cruises cancelled 10 Egypt and Jordan sailings after the Israel-Hamas war began. Similarly, Costa Cruises suspended Black Sea operations due to the Ukraine conflict.

Tip: Subscribe to the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time U.S. government alerts. Also, consider booking through a travel agent who can monitor geopolitical risks and offer rebooking assistance.

Operational and Mechanical Issues

Newer ships, while advanced, are more complex and prone to technical failures. The Scarlet Lady (Virgin Voyages) cancelled a 2023 sailing due to a propulsion system malfunction. Older ships, like the Queen Mary 2 (Cunard), have faced cancellations for boiler repairs.

Tip: Research a ship’s maintenance history via the U.S. Coast Guard’s Cruise Ship Safety Database before booking.

Regulatory and Environmental Restrictions

Ports are increasingly imposing limits on cruise traffic. Venice’s passenger cap (40,000 per day) has forced lines like Costa and MSC to cancel or modify itineraries. Similarly, Alaska’s new emissions rules require ships to use cleaner fuel, which some older vessels can’t accommodate.

Tip: Choose eco-certified lines (e.g., Hurtigruten, Ponant) that comply with environmental standards.

How to Check if Your Cruise Has Been Cancelled

Monitor Official Cruise Line Communications

The first step is to check your cruise line’s official website, email, and mobile app. Most lines send cancellation notices via email within 24–72 hours of a decision. For example, Royal Caribbean updates its “Sailing Updates” page in real time, while Carnival sends SMS alerts to registered users.

Tip: Enable push notifications on your cruise line’s app and verify your contact details during booking.

Use Third-Party Tracking Tools

Websites like CruiseCritic, CruiseMapper, and Ship Tracker by MarineTraffic provide real-time itinerary changes and port status updates. For instance, CruiseMapper shows if a ship is delayed, rerouted, or anchored offshore due to port congestion.

Tip: Cross-reference multiple sources—some tools update faster than others.

Contact Your Travel Agent

Agents often receive cancellations notices before passengers and can negotiate better compensation. For example, a travel agent might secure a higher FCC value or free airfare changes when a cruise is cancelled.

Tip: Use a CLIA-certified agent with direct partnerships with cruise lines for faster support.

Check Port Authority Websites

Port closures due to weather or labor strikes are announced on local government sites. For example, the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism posts hurricane updates, while PortMiami shares docking schedules.

Tip: Bookmark key port websites before departure.

Review Your Travel Insurance Policy

Insurance providers like Allianz and Travel Guard track cancellations and can expedite claims. Some policies even cover “cruise interruption” if you’re already onboard.

Tip: File a claim within 72 hours of cancellation for faster processing.

What to Do If Your Cruise Is Cancelled

Understand Your Refund and Rebooking Options

Cruise lines typically offer three options: full refund, future cruise credit (FCC), or rebooking on a similar itinerary. FCCs are often the most common but come with expiration dates (usually 12–24 months). For example, Norwegian Cruise Line’s FCCs expire after 24 months, while Royal Caribbean’s last 18 months.

Tip: Negotiate for a higher FCC value (e.g., 125–150%) or request a cash refund if you’re uncertain about future travel.

File for Airfare Reimbursement

If you booked flights separately, contact your airline or travel insurance provider. Airlines like Delta and American Airlines often waive change fees for cruise cancellations if you have proof (e.g., a cancellation email).

Tip: Book refundable airfare or use a credit card that offers travel protection (e.g., Chase Sapphire Reserve).

Request Onboard Credit or Perks

Some lines, like Princess Cruises, offer $50–$200 onboard credit as compensation. Others, like Holland America, provide free drink packages or specialty dining.

Tip: Ask for additional perks—many lines are willing to negotiate to retain customers.

Document Everything

Save all emails, receipts, and call logs. This is crucial if you dispute a refund or file an insurance claim. For example, a passenger on the Celebrity Apex received a higher FCC after submitting a detailed cancellation timeline to the line’s customer service.

Tip: Use a spreadsheet to track expenses (e.g., non-refundable tours, hotels).

Consider Alternative Vacations

If your cruise is cancelled last-minute, explore nearby destinations. For example, if your Bahamas cruise is cancelled, book a last-minute resort stay in Miami or Fort Lauderdale.

Tip: Use apps like HotelTonight or Expedia Last-Minute Deals for discounts.

Data Table: 2023–2024 Cruise Cancellation Trends

Cruise Line	Total Cancellations (2023–2024)	Top Reason	Avg. Refund/FCC Offer	Notable Incident
Royal Caribbean	42	Weather (hurricanes)	125% FCC or full refund	Wonder of the Seas Bermuda cancellation (2023)
Carnival	38	Health outbreaks	100% FCC + $100 credit	Carnival Breeze norovirus (2024)
NCL	29	Geopolitical issues	125% FCC + $100 credit	Mediterranean Israel cancellations (2023)
Princess	25	Staffing shortages	100% refund or FCC	Discovery Princess Alaska (2023)
Celebrity	18	Environmental regulations	125% FCC + $200 credit	Venice entry denial (2024)
Viking	12	Weather (ice storms)	130% FCC	Viking Sky Baltic Sea (2023)

Staying Informed and Prepared for the Future

The cruise industry is evolving, and while cancellations are inevitable, being proactive can minimize their impact. By understanding which cruise lines have cancelled sailings and the reasons behind them, travelers can make informed decisions. Key takeaways include: choosing lines with strong cancellation policies, purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, and staying updated through multiple channels (official alerts, third-party tools, and agents).

Looking ahead, the industry is investing in resilient itineraries (e.g., longer sea days, alternative ports) and advanced health protocols to reduce cancellations. However, external factors like climate change and geopolitical shifts will remain challenges. The best defense? Flexibility. Opt for refundable bookings, monitor your cruise daily, and always have a backup plan. With the right preparation, you can turn a potential disruption into a stress-free, memorable vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines have cancelled sailings in 2024?

Major cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian have cancelled select 2024 sailings due to itinerary adjustments, port closures, or operational issues. Check each line’s official website for real-time updates on affected routes and dates.

Why do cruise lines cancel sailings, and how often does it happen?

Cruise lines may cancel sailings for reasons like weather emergencies, mechanical repairs, or geopolitical disruptions in destinations. While rare for large operators, cancellations are more common with niche itineraries or during hurricane season.

How can I find out if my cruise has been cancelled by the cruise line?

Most cruise lines notify booked guests via email or SMS, but you should also monitor the line’s “sailing updates” webpage and your cruise app. Travel agents can also provide instant alerts if your sailing is impacted.

Are refunds guaranteed if a cruise line cancels my sailing?

Yes, if a cruise line cancels your sailing, you’re typically entitled to a full refund or a future cruise credit (FCC), depending on the policy. Refund processing times vary by line but usually take 30–90 days.

Which cruise lines have cancelled sailings due to geopolitical issues?

Lines like Princess Cruises and MSC have cancelled sailings to regions affected by conflicts, such as parts of the Red Sea or Eastern Europe. These cancellations prioritize guest safety and are often rerouted to stable destinations.

Can I claim compensation if my cruise is cancelled last-minute?

Compensation depends on the cruise line’s policy and reason for cancellation—delays caused by the line may qualify for partial refunds or onboard credits. Review your ticket contract or contact customer service for specifics.