Hurricane Debby Impacts Cruise Operations in Tampa

Carnival Ship in Tampa

Now a Category 1 hurricane, Debby is impacting cruise operations at Port Tampa Bay on Florida’s Gulf Coast.

After postponing the return of the Margaritaville at Sea Islander on Sunday, the tropical storm has also affected the Carnival Paradise.

“The Port of Tampa is still closed, and it is now clear we will not be able to operate your cruise today,” Carnival Cruise Line said in a statement shared on Monday.

Originally scheduled to return to its homeport today, the Paradise is now scheduled to dock on Tuesday, the company added.

Originally set to operate as a six-night cruise to the Western Caribbean, the ship’s upcoming sailing will now be shortened by one night.

“It’s an ongoing situation and that’s why we thank you so much for your patience and understanding,” said Carnival’s weather contributor Amy Sweezey.

Other Carnival Cruise Line ships that were impacted by the storm include the Carnival Elation, which sailed from Jacksonville one day early.

Operating out of Charleston, the Carnival Sunshine may also experience schedule changes due to Debby, Sweezey said.

The Margaritaville at Sea Islander is facing an additional delay after having its return to Tampa postponed from Sunday to Monday.

“Based on this morning’s inspection and continued monitoring of expected weather conditions, Port Tampa Bay remains closed at this time,” Margaritaville at Sea said.

“Once our captain receives word that the channel is open to cruise vessels, we’ll begin safely navigating to Terminal 6 at Port Tampa Bay to begin passenger debarkation,” the company added.

“We encourage individuals cruising from Port Tampa Bay to contact the cruise line they are sailing with, should they have questions or concerns about their cruise itinerary,” Tampa Bay Port said in an online update.

“Any changes to your cruise itinerary, including vessel weather avoidance plans and any port call changes, will be communicated by the cruise line directly.”

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