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HEALTH AND TRAVEL ALERTS

You may have been watching the news and have some concerns about your February 7th, 2020 sailing. We appreciate the CDC’s abundance of caution and their partnership. 

None of the four guests being tested by CDC showed any clinical signs or symptoms of coronavirus. One had tested positive onboard for Influenza A. Our records indicate the guests had not been in China since January 26. 

We have also been cleared by authorities to depart, as usual. However, to reassure concerned guests, we will delay our departure ‪until Saturday, February 8th, 2020, when we will receive the conclusive test results from CDC.

We know that you may be anxious about boarding the ship – we’re anxious too! So, we’ve decided to push our boarding to February 8 th , 2020, at  5:00 PM EST,  while we wait for the results from the CDC.

We’ve also made adjustments to our itinerary, which can be found below:

We’ll set sail from Cape Liberty at 10:00 PM on Saturday, February 8th instead of 3:00 PM on Friday, February 7th. Additionally, our visit to Port Canaveral will now be on February 11th from from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and to Perfect Day at CocoCay on February 12th from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Unfortunately, we’ll be unable to visit Nassau, Bahamas.

Given that we have shortened the sailing and modified the itinerary, you’ll receive a 2-day refund in the form of an onboard credit. Plus a pro-rated credit, in the value of 2 days, for any pre-purchased packages such as beverage, internet, or dining. Both credits will be added to your Onboard Account and can be used anywhere on the ship.

Please also take a minute to review our screening and boarding protocols. We have been working with medical experts, public health authorities, and local governments, and in alignment with new stricter CDC protocols, we are tightening our measures to protect guests and crew. These steps are intentionally conservative, and we apologize that they will inconvenience some of our guests.

Until further notice, all ships in the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. fleet will adopt these health screening protocols:

COVID-19 Travel Update

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people gather. Due to evolving health protocols, certain onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice. Imagery and messaging on the Royal Caribbean website and other company advertising may not accurately reflect experiences that are currently unavailable or otherwise impacted by evolving health protocols.

Cancelled Sailings

Last updated january 7th, 2022.

As a result of the ongoing COVID-related circumstances around the world, and in an abundance of caution, Royal Caribbean International is pausing operations for the following ships:

• Vision of the Seas’ return to cruising is postponed until March 7, 2022

• Serenade of the Seas sailings from January 8 – March 5, returning after dry dock on April 26, 2022

• Jewel of the Seas sailings from January 9 – February 12, returning on February 20, 2022

• Symphony of the Seas sailings from January 8 – January 22, returning on January 29, 2022

We regret having to cancel our guests’ long-awaited vacations and appreciate their loyalty and understanding. Our top priority is always the well-being of our guests, our crew and the communities we visit.

Global Suspension Refund Update

As we went into our global suspension of sailings, we initially estimated that refunds would take 30 days. Unfortunately, with an unprecedented volume of refunds and credits, we are delayed. We’ve worked diligently to resolve most of the volume issues and are working around the clock to address the backlog to get you your refund, as quickly possible. Currently, some refunds are taking up to 45 days from the date requested.

Please know that each and every request is receiving the same level of care and dedication. And rest assured, your refund will be honored and it is coming – it’s just taking a little longer than expected and we’re very sorry about that. We thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

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• Understanding Royal Caribbean's Child Policy: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy is crucial for parents planning a cruise vacation with their children. As one of the world’s leading cruise lines, Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of family-friendly amenities and activities to ensure an enjoyable experience for both parents and kids. This comprehensive guide will provide parents with all the essential information they need to know about Royal Caribbean’s policies regarding children, including age requirements, supervised activities, and onboard facilities.

To help you navigate through this guide more easily, here is a table summarizing the key points of Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy:

Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy is designed to cater to children of all age groups, ensuring that they have a fantastic time while onboard. From specialized programs for infants and toddlers to engaging activities for older children and teenagers, the cruise line strives to create a safe and enjoyable environment for young guests.

Throughout this guide, we will delve into each age category, detailing the supervised activities available, the onboard facilities provided, and any specific requirements or restrictions that parents should be aware of. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy and be well-equipped to plan an unforgettable family cruise vacation.

Can one parent take a child on a cruise Royal Caribbean?

Yes, one parent can take a child on a cruise with Royal Caribbean. According to their child policy, children of all ages are welcome on board their ships. However, children under the age of 6 months are not permitted to sail. It is important to note that children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of supervised youth programs and activities for children of different age groups, ensuring they have a fun and safe experience onboard. For more detailed information regarding Royal Caribbean’s child policy, you can visit their official website: https://www.royalcaribbean.

What age is considered a child on Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean defines a child as anyone under the age of 12 years old. Children within this age range can participate in a variety of supervised activities and programs designed specifically for their age group. It is important for parents to be familiar with this policy when planning a family cruise with Royal Caribbean to ensure a fun and enjoyable experience for their children. For more information on Royal Caribbean’s child policy and the activities available for children, please visit the official Royal Caribbean website at [www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/what-is-royal-caribbeans-child-policy](https://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/what-is-royal-caribbeans-child-policy).

Do you pay full price for a child on a cruise?

When it comes to cruising with children, parents often wonder if they have to pay full price for their little ones. According to Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy, the answer depends on the age of the child and the specific cruise. Children under the age of two typically sail for free or at a significantly reduced rate, while children aged two to 17 are usually charged the full fare. However, Royal Caribbean occasionally offers promotions and discounts for children, so it’s always worth checking their website or contacting a travel agent to find the best deal for your family. For more information on Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy, visit their official website: https://www.royalcaribbean.

What are the rules for kids on cruise ships?

Royal Caribbean has specific rules and policies in place for children on their cruise ships. Children must be at least six months old to travel on most itineraries, and at least one year old for transatlantic, transpacific, or remote itineraries. Kids aged three to 17 can participate in the complimentary Adventure Ocean Youth Program, which offers age-appropriate activities and entertainment. There are also designated areas on the ship for teens, such as the Teen Disco and the Living Room. Parents can opt for the My Family Time Dining program, which allows children aged three to 11 to finish their meals early and be picked up by Adventure Ocean staff, giving parents the opportunity to enjoy their meal at a more leisurely pace. It’s important for parents to familiarize themselves with the specific policies and guidelines outlined by Royal Caribbean to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for their children. For more detailed information, please visit Royal Caribbean’s official website: https://www.royalcaribbean.

Royal caribbean infant policy

Royal Caribbean’s child policy ensures a safe and enjoyable cruise experience for families with infants. Infants must be at least 6 months old to travel, except for select itineraries where they must be 12 months old. Parents can take advantage of the Royal Babies & Tots Nursery, offering care and activities for children aged 6 to 36 months. The nursery operates at an additional fee and requires reservations, providing peace of mind for parents who want to enjoy some adult time onboard. Parents should review the policy for specific details on age requirements, nursery availability, and necessary documents for infant travel. For more information, please visit Royal Caribbean’s official website: [https://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/what-is-royal-caribbean-s-infant-policy](https://www.royalcaribbean.com/faq/questions/what-is-royal-caribbean-s-infant-policy).

In today’s fast-paced world, family vacations play a crucial role in creating lasting memories and strengthening the bond between parents and children. When it comes to planning a cruise vacation, Royal Caribbean stands out as one of the top choices for families seeking adventure, entertainment, and relaxation all in one package. However, before embarking on your Royal Caribbean journey, it is essential to familiarize yourself with their child policy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Royal Caribbean’s child policy is designed to cater to the needs and safety of children of all ages, allowing parents to relax and make the most of their vacation. From onboard activities to supervised programs, Royal Caribbean offers a wealth of options to keep children engaged and entertained throughout their voyage.

One key aspect of Royal Caribbean’s child policy is their age requirements. Infants must be at least six months old to travel on most itineraries, but this may vary depending on the specific cruise and destination. It is important for parents to carefully review these requirements and consult with their pediatrician before planning their vacation.

For children aged six months to three years, Royal Caribbean offers the award-winning Royal Babies and Tots program. This program provides interactive play sessions, storytime, and other age-appropriate activities, all under the supervision of experienced staff. Parents can rest assured that their little ones are in safe hands while they indulge in some much-needed relaxation or explore the ship’s amenities.

As children grow older, they can participate in the Adventure Ocean Youth Program, catering to different age groups from three to seventeen years old. This program is divided into various age-specific categories, ensuring that each child can engage in activities tailored to their interests and developmental stage. From science experiments to arts and crafts, sports, and themed parties, the Adventure Ocean Youth Program offers endless entertainment options for children of all ages.

One of the highlights of Royal Caribbean’s child policy is their commitment to safety. The cruise line adheres to strict safety protocols and guidelines to ensure a secure environment for children onboard. All staff members undergo thorough background checks and receive extensive training to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for young cruisers. Additionally, Royal Caribbean’s ships are equipped with advanced safety features and procedures to mitigate any potential risks.

Parents can also take advantage of Royal Caribbean’s babysitting services, allowing them to enjoy some adult time while their children are being cared for by trained professionals. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner or exploring the ship’s nightlife, parents can rest assured that their children are in capable hands.

To make the most of your family’s Royal Caribbean vacation, it is crucial to plan ahead and make the necessary arrangements. Familiarize yourself with the age requirements, program details, and safety protocols provided by Royal Caribbean. By doing so, you can ensure a stress-free and memorable experience for your entire family.

For further information and to explore the various programs and services offered by Royal Caribbean, I highly recommend visiting their official website. Their comprehensive and user-friendly website provides detailed information on itineraries, onboard amenities, and specific child policies for each ship.

In conclusion, understanding Royal Caribbean’s child policy is crucial for parents planning a cruise vacation with their children. By familiarizing yourself with their age requirements, supervised programs, and safety protocols, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your family. Royal Caribbean’s commitment to providing exceptional services for children of all ages sets them apart as a top choice for family cruises. So, embark on your Royal Caribbean journey and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Understanding Royal Caribbean’s Child Policy: A Comprehensive Guide for Parents

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Royal Caribbean Infant Policy: Guidelines and Restrictions for Cruising with Babies

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U.S. travel alert: Cruise line extends cancellations of stops to popular Caribbean resort

A major cruise company has announced more cancellations for stops at its private resort in Haiti due to continued unrest and violence.

Royal Caribbean had previously announced a temporary suspension of stops at its resort in Labadee, Haiti. Now, according to a report on RoyalCaribbeanBlog.com , itineraries will be changed through at least mid-April.

“Due to the evolving situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Perfect Day at CocoCay instead of Labadee, Haiti. We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change – your safety is our top priority,” Royal Caribbean International’s Assistant Vice President of Guest Experiences wrote in the communication to guests sailing on the April 14 sailing of Explorer of the Seas, the website reported.

READ MORE: U.S. travel alert: Do not travel to this Caribbean nation, popular spot for cruise ship stops

Stops at Labadee have been replaced with visits to Perfect Day at CocoCay, another Royal Caribbean-operated resort. Other itineraries have been rerouted to Grand Cayman, Bimini, Grand Turk and St. Maarten.

Royal Caribbean recently announced a temporary stop to calls on Labadee, located on the northern coast of Haiti. The U.S. State Department had previously issued an alert for Haiti, advising people not to visit the country due to the threat of “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor health care infrastructure.” All family members of U.S. government employees and non-emergency personnel have been ordered to leave the country.

The resort in Labadee, first opened by Royal Caribbean in 1986, is located about 130 miles from the Haiti capital Port-au-Prince, the epi-center of gang violence. The U.S. State Department announced last week it had completed its first evacuation of American citizens from Port-au-Prince, transporting 15 people to Santo Domingo, t he capital of the Dominican Republic. Others were later evacuated on a plane chartered by the Florida Department of Emergency Management.

©2024 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit al.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Local News | Carnival cruise passengers to return to Norfolk…

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Local news | key bridge collapse live updates: temporary alternate channel being set up for commercially essential vessels, local news | carnival cruise passengers to return to norfolk instead of baltimore after key bridge collapse.

Carnival Cruise ships will be rerouted to Norfolk, Virginia, after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge closed the Port of Baltimore for the foreseeable future.

Cruise passengers in the middle of a seven-day trip to the Bahamas on the Carnival Legend that was scheduled to return to Baltimore on Sunday will instead disembark in the southeastern Virginia city, according to Christine Duffy, president of Carnival Cruise Line.

Passengers will receive complimentary bus transportation back to Baltimore, a distance of about 233 miles, Duffy said in a news release late Tuesday.

In addition, future cruises on the Carnival Legend and Carnival Pride, including one scheduled to leave on Sunday, will depart and return from the southeastern Virginia city.

As the cruise industry struggles to reroute ships, at least one expert doesn’t think the damage done to the travel ship business — nationally or in Baltimore — will likely be permanent.

Carolyn Spencer Brown, a travel journalist, consultant and former editor of Cruise Critic, an online review website, said that the industry has rebounded from the losses it incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic resulting from social distancing mandates and well-publicized reports of shipboard illness.

“Cruises for the next few months are fully booked,” Brown said. “In the short-term, the cruise lines are scrambling like mad to figure out how to reroute their ships and how to minimize the inconvenience to travelers.

“The long-term effect will depend on how the bridge is rebuilt. Baltimore is never going to be a superpower port, but it has a lot to offer. It has the capacity to be a bigger cruise port than it is now.”

According to the Cruise Lines International Association, Baltimore is the nation’s 29th busiest port, moving about 378,000 passengers annually. Twelve ships were scheduled to dock at the port 115 times during 2024, the Association said.

The Port of Baltimore’s Cruise Maryland Terminal is home to four cruise lines: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and American Cruises.

Royal Caribbean is currently in the midst of a 12-night Caribbean cruise aboard the Vision of the Seas that departed March 23 and was scheduled to return to Baltimore April 4. The cruise line wrote in an email on Tuesday that “our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas’ ongoing and upcoming sailings” and that updates would be communicated to passengers.

Norwegian, a relatively new line at the port which provides cruises between Baltimore and New England and Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean, operates a fall and winter schedule and had no cruises scheduled immediately for Baltimore.

American’s cruises currently are departing from Washington, according to a spokeswoman; the earliest departures from Baltimore are not on the schedule until May.

Before Tuesday, the Port of Baltimore was responsible for 400 jobs and generated about $63 million in revenue annually for local businesses, according to a report issued last September by the Maryland Port Administration.

U.S. President Joe Biden has pledged federal resources to rebuild the Key Bridge.

More than 40 million people live within a six-hour drive of Baltimore, according to the Port Administration; Brown said that if the new bridge were taller, it could generate additional cruise business for the city.

“The biggest ships haven’t been able to come to Baltimore because they couldn’t pass under the bridge,” she said.

“What Baltimore offers is a very wonderful experience that is close to home. Cruising down the Chesapeake Bay is magical. You see parts of the bay you’ve never seen before.”

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Where will Royal Caribbean build its next beach club for cruisers? We just found out

One of the cruise industry's most well-known brands is adding a private beach club to the growing list of cruise line-operated destinations set to open in the next two years.

Royal Caribbean plans to debut the Royal Beach Club Cozumel in 2026. It will be the line's first exclusive area in Mexico, offering what the line says will be the "ultimate beach day," featuring swim-up bars, family-friendly pools, private cabanas, activities like snorkeling and kayaking, and more.

Foodies will also be in luck, as the beach club will house a dedicated restaurant and a street market, a bar and lounge area with incredible views, and hands-on cooking classes and tequila tastings.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The addition of a new port option in Cozumel — a frequent stop on Western Caribbean cruises — means passengers have a bit more variety when they sail from Galveston , Texas, where Royal Caribbean recently built a new terminal. Although the port has recently gained popularity , with Royal Caribbean and several other lines homeporting ships there, itinerary choices are limited — a topic that came up for discussion during the 2023 President's Cruise on Allure of the Seas .

When passengers in the audience of a special Q&A session with Royal Caribbean president and CEO Michael Bayley asked about the potential for a private island in the area, Bayley alluded to its being a possibility.

"Ooh. What a great idea," Bayley said during the Q&A. "Can there be a private island for cruisers out of Texas for a seven-day cruise? It's a great idea. I would love to say more, but I cannot. But I can tell you I completely agree with that idea. It's a great idea. It's on our wish list of things that we're going to get done at some point."

It appears that "at some point" is now.

"Now is the perfect time to announce the next iteration of this [Royal Beach Club] collection with Royal Beach Club Cozumel," Bayley said in a statement from the line sharing details of the beach club. "Cozumel is an incredible destination, and the beach club will perfectly complement all the island has to offer as an experience that combines familiar Royal Caribbean touches with the spirit of Mexico, alongside amenities and activities for every type of vacationer."

The Royal Beach Club Cozumel is Royal Caribbean's second Royal Beach Club. It follows the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, which is set to open in the Bahamas in 2025. The line also operates private island Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas (which has two private beaches of its own, the Coco Beach Club and Hideaway Beach) and destination Labadee on the island of Haiti.

Royal Caribbean joins Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line on the list of cruise lines poised to launch new private destinations. Disney will unveil new venture Lighthouse Point on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera in June 2024, and Carnival will open Celebration Key on the island of Grand Bahama in 2025.

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Cruise line stops visits to popular Caribbean resort amid U.S. travel advisory

• Published: Mar. 22, 2024, 3:24 p.m.
• David Cifarelli | [email protected]
• Ryan Mancini | [email protected]
• The Associated Press

A major cruise line has suspended ships from going to the Caribbean nation of Haiti because of an increase of violence and unrest in the area.

Royal Caribbean has suspended calls at Labadee “due to the evolving situation in Haiti,” the company said in a prepared statement as reported by Cruiseindustrynews.com.

“We continue to monitor and assess the situation with our Global Security & Intelligence Team,” Royal Caribbean continued. Neither passengers nor crew have faced violence or threats, the company said.

This comes after the State Department urged people to not visit and implemented a Travel Advisory earlier this month. The U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince told American tourists to “not travel to Haiti” in a press release issued March 10 .

“The current security situation in Haiti is unpredictable and dangerous,” the statement continued. “We are aware that there are few or no commercial options to depart Haiti safely at this time. As they become available, we urge U.S. citizens to take advantage of them.”

A do-not-travel alert for Haiti was issued in July 2023 for what the State Department described as “kidnapping, crime, civil unrest and poor health care infrastructure.”

The Travel Advisory for Haiti is now at Level Four, which discourages any travel to the country.

American travelers in Haiti are advised to avoid crowds, avoid being outside after dark, prepare to shelter in place, keep a low profile and be aware of their surroundings, the U.S. Embassy said.

Several Royal Caribbean ships were set to visit Labadee over the next several days. Instead, those stops will be replaced by a day at sea as well as extra time at a previously scheduled stop in Falmouth, Jamaica.

Other ships will visit Nassau, the Bahamas or Perfect Day at CocoCay, another company-owned location.

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More than 33,000 people have fled Haiti’s capital in a span of nearly two weeks as gangs continue to pillage homes and attack state institutions , according to a new report by the U.N.’s International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The majority of those displaced have traveled to Haiti’s southern region, which is generally peaceful compared with Port-au-Prince, which has an estimated population of 3 million, and remains largely paralyzed by gang violence . The airport in Port-au-Prince has also been closed because of the violence.

Scores of people have been killed and some 17,000 people overall have been left homeless since the gang attacks began on Feb. 29, with gunmen targeting police stations and the main international airport that remains closed.

They also stormed Haiti’s two biggest prisons and released more than 4,000 inmates.

More than 90% of those fleeing did so by bus, forced to go through the community of Martissant, which connects Port-au-Prince with Haiti’s southern region, and is controlled by warring gangs that have killed dozens of civilians in the area.

IOM noted that Haiti’s southern region is already home to another 116,000 people who fled gang violence in previous months, and that rural provinces do not have the infrastructure or resources “to cope with these massive displacement flows coming from the capital.”

The majority of new arrivals have settled in cities like Les Cayes, Jérémie and Léogâne, with more than half of Haitians interviewed saying they chose to relocate to the south because they’re originally from there. Nearly all said they planned to stay with family.

More than 70% of people who fled Port-au-Prince between March 8-20 said gang violence had already left them homeless and that they had been living with relatives or in crowded, makeshift shelters. More people are expected to leave the capital in upcoming days and weeks as gang violence continues unabated.

The Associated Press contributed to the reporting of this story.

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'I just felt so helpless': Carnival Sunrise cruise ship faces flooding

A Carnival Cruise Line ship faced flooding on its way back to Miami over the weekend.

Carnival Sunrise was returning from a five-day Caribbean cruise at the time. Passenger Rachel Cox woke up to pounding on her cabin door around 2 a.m. on Saturday.

As she and her family got out of bed, they stepped into what she estimated was 2 to 4 inches of water. “We opened the door and people are yelling and screaming ‘Hey, we're taking on water. We're flooding,’ ” she told USA TODAY.

Cox, 38, was staying in an inside cabin on Deck 10 with her partner and son, and her mother and daughter stayed in the adjacent room.

After a man wearing what looked like a security uniform told them to go to their muster station, they gathered their belongings and scrambled down the stairs – in part because water was pooling around the elevator bank.

“We're literally running down the stairwells, and as we are, (on) every single floor water's just coming out of the ceilings, it’s coming up through the floor, we see water on the sides of the walls,” said the Arkansas-based nonprofit executive director.

The captain came to speak with Cox and other guests holed up in the ship’s Liquid Lounge. He informed them that the vessel had taken on water and that bad weather had changed their route, though Cox said the captain did not get specific. Cox and her family did not hear any other official updates from the line, but the crew distributed bottled water and a small number of blankets to passengers.

They stayed there until they got off the ship shortly after 8 a.m. Saturday (though Cox and her partner did go back upstairs briefly to retrieve their life jackets).

Story continues below.

“Carnival Sunrise encountered heavy rain while the ship was returning to Miami overnight Friday into Saturday,” Carnival spokesperson Matt Lupoli said in an emailed statement. “Some staterooms were taken out of service for Saturday's departure as our team completed clean up and replaced carpet. Those guests who were not able to sail were provided full refunds, a future cruise credit and received overnight accommodations if they needed them.”

Cox said the cruise line did not initially offer her a refund or other compensation, despite her belongings getting wet, including large suitcases the crew had stored ahead of disembarkation. She contacted Carnival when she got home and said she didn’t hear back until Wednesday morning, when a guest services representative asked to set up a call.

A couple of hours later, the cruise line also sent her a note signed by Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy, offering a 25% future cruise credit and inviting guests to submit documentation for review of damage to personal belongings.

“On behalf of the entire Carnival family, I am writing to express our sincerest apologies for the inconvenience you experienced as a result of the water intrusion incident that occurred the final night of the voyage,” Duffy said in the email, which Cox shared with USA TODAY. “We understand that being moved from your stateroom during those late hours must have been frustrating, and we deeply regret the disruption to your plans and comfort.”

Lupoli said in a separate statement that passengers "affected by the flooding incident on Carnival Sunrise were directed to the main lounge, not their muster stations, where our team worked to make them as comfortable as possible."

"The captain apologized for what occurred on board, a burst pipe due to a large amount of rainwater, and our Guest Care team has followed up as well, sending a letter and issuing a credit for those inconvenienced," he said. "We appreciate their understanding and support."

What is the best time to take a cruise?: We broke it down by region

Cox, who has been on over a dozen Carnival cruises, said the experience soured her on taking another – at least for now. “I had several pleasant experiences before this one, but at this moment in time, I can't imagine ever getting on another ship because I just felt so helpless.”

The news comes after Royal Caribbean International’s Serenade of the Seas, which is now operating the nine-month Ultimate World Cruise, also experienced flooding after rough weather off the coast of South America in January.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Royal Caribbean cruise ship rerouting operations to Norfolk from Baltimore

Nauticus will host a Royal Caribbean cruise ship’s calls in April that were originally planned for Baltimore following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Vision of the Seas, a 2,500-passenger vessel, was scheduled to return to Baltimore on April 4, but will instead debark its guests in Norfolk, according to a Nauticus news release. Many passengers will take buses back to their vehicles in Baltimore. The ship will depart for two additional cruises from Norfolk on April 4 and April 12, returning a final time April 19. Vision...

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What kind of refund am I entitled to if I cancel my cruise booking?

Select fare programs require the payment at the time of booking of a nonrefundable deposit. That deposit amount shall not be refunded at any time after it has been paid. Change fees will apply to bookings for which the deposit is nonrefundable.

Cancellation of Cruise or CruiseTour

Cruises that are cancelled prior to the sail date, and CruiseTours that are cancelled prior to the first day of the CruiseTour, may be subject to a cancellation charge. The amount of the cancellation charge shall be determined as shown in the table below and shall vary depending on how far in advance of the sail date (or first day of the CruiseTour) the Operator receives notice of cancellation.

In the event of a cancellation of a Cruise or CruiseTour, any applicable Taxes/Fees or Fuel Supplement charges shall be refunded.  For bookings made outside of the United States and Canada, a different cancellation policy may apply. Contact your local office or travel advisor for details.

Cancellation notices are effective when received by the Operator.

For Passengers who have booked a CruiseTour and desire to cancel their tour portion while retaining the Cruise, refunds of the CruiseTour Fare (including any applicable supplement charges) shall be made in accordance with the following cancellation policy. Guests who convert their CruiseTours to a cruise only booking within forty-two (42) days of the start date of the tour segment of the CruiseTour will be subject to a cancellation charge. The amount of that charge varies depending on the location of the CruiseTour and/or its length. The cancellation charge policies set forth above vary for single occupancy or for the third, fourth or higher occupants in a stateroom or for groups. Consult your travel advisor or call Royal Caribbean for further details.

Cancellation by the Passenger after the Cruise or CruiseTour has begun, early disembarkation of the Passenger for any reason, including pursuant to any provision of this Ticket Contract, or “no-shows” shall be without refund, compensation, or liability on the part of the Carrier whatsoever.

If Carrier received payment via credit card, the refund will be made to that credit card. If Carrier received payment from your travel advisor, the refund will be provided back to that travel advisor.

Carrier reserves the right to offer promotional cruise fares or other offers that may modify the cancellation policies set forth above.

For cancellations of air flights, hotel stays, transfer services, shore excursions, pre-purchased amenities, Royal Caribbean Travel Protection Program SM , pre-booked services (such as spa, photography or wedding services) and pre-booked arrangements such as specialty dining, see the applicable terms and conditions for any applicable cancellation charges.

Non-Refundable Deposit Fares

Outside of final payment, when a non-refundable deposit cancellation occurs, the full deposit amount will be held in penalty. Any additional payments made will be refunded.

Should you choose to change your original ship and/or sail date, if you booked directly with us, please contact our Consumer Outreach team where a representative will assist in making the desired changes, while also applying the qualifying change fee(s) and collecting payment, if not already done so.  If you booked via a travel advisor, please contact them for any booking changes.

Refunds for Delayed Sailings or Sailings Cancelled by Royal Caribbean

If we cancel a voyage, or delay embarkation by three (3) days or more and you elect not to sail on the delayed voyage or a substitute voyage we offer, you can obtain a refund or a future cruise credit (FCC).  Although our practice is to issue a future cruise credit automatically, you may instead  contact us to request a refund. Refund requests must be made within six (6) months of the date the cruise was cancelled or the scheduled embarkation date, whichever is earlier.

Please note this policy does not apply to guests booked on chartered sailings.  If you were booked on a chartered sailing that was canceled or embarkation was delayed by three (3) or more days, and you wish to inquire about refunds or future credits, you must contact the third party reseller that sold you the cruise.

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