Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas Cruise Cancellation Blamed on Tropical Storm Ophelia

On occasion, Royal Caribbean finds itself facing the challenging task of canceling a voyage due to adverse weather conditions," as quoted in recent reports.

In a recent incident, two scheduled cruises aboard the Radiance of the Seas had to be called off due to a propulsion system malfunction, contrasting with a previous cancellation caused by mechanical issues that affected voyages to Alaska. This time, yet another cancellation transpired due to meteorological factors.

Passengers who had eagerly anticipated their departure aboard the Vision of the Seas today, September 23rd were promptly informed of the cancellation, attributing it to the presence of Tropical Storm Ophelia. Royal Caribbean, in collaboration with its Chief Meteorologist, diligently monitored the progression of a developing tropical storm poised to bring forecasted high winds and adverse weather conditions in and around Baltimore, Maryland. Consequently, Royal Caribbean made the decision to cancel the sailing at approximately 7:30 pm EST on September 21.

The provided update reads:

"Along with our Chief Meteorologist, we’ve been closely monitoring a developing tropical storm bringing forecasted high winds and inclement weather in and around Baltimore, Maryland."

"Unfortunately, the weather will prevent us from safely conducting our upcoming cruise on Vision of the Seas, and we’ll have to cancel our September 23rd, 2023 sailing."

The news of a canceled cruise is disheartening for all, and while no compensation can truly assuage the disappointment, Royal Caribbean has extended a gracious gesture to affected passengers. Those originally set to embark on the Vision of the Seas tomorrow will receive a complete refund, encompassing taxes, fees, pre-paid packages, gratuities, amenities, shore excursions, and any flights arranged through Royal Caribbean, as well as pre-purchased Royal Caribbean Travel Protection.

This refund will be processed to the payment method on record within a span of 14 business days; however, it is acknowledged that certain financial institutions may necessitate a longer processing period.

In cases where a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) was employed to cover the cruise expenses, any excess funds paid beyond the certificate amount will be reimbursed. Moreover, the original FCC certificate will be reinstated.

Furthermore, every affected passenger will also receive a 50% FCC, which can be applied toward a future Royal Caribbean voyage to be booked by December 31, 2023, with the cruise slated to depart by September 29, 2023.

The 5-night cruise, aboard the vessel with a gross registered tonnage of 78,340, was originally scheduled to set sail from Baltimore, Maryland, embarking on a journey to Bermuda with an overnight stay.

 

Source: royalcaribbeanblog.com