News

Hurricane Fiona forces cruise lines to change course in Caribbean

Several cruise lines have adjusted Caribbean itineraries after a hurricane left a swathe of devastation in Puerto Rico before striking the Dominican Republic.

Hurricane Fiona is reported by US forecasters to be strengthening after leaving at least seven people dead. 

The hurricane hit Grand Turk Island in the Turks and Caicos Islands with reported winds for up to 155mph on Tuesday morning local time.

It led to an island-wide electricity blackout in Puerto Rico along with flooding and landslides.

The hurricane displaced more than 12,400 people in the Dominican Republic and cut off at least two communities.

The country’s tourism region in the east was hit hard with Punta Cana, La Romana and El Seibo suffering damage and some flooding with a state of emergency declared in eight provinces, according to local reports.

Storm conditions have been forecast in the Bahamas, while people in Bermuda have been advised to monitor Fiona’s progress as it heads north towards the east coast of Canada. 

Flights were cancelled and airports shut across various islands ahead of the storm.

Carnival Cruise Line re-routed two ships while Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages also altered Caribbean sailings. 

While Virgin Voyages does not currently call in Puerto Rico, it does plan to call on the island’s capital of San Juan this autumn. 

A spokesperson said: “Last week, in response to the developing storm, we adjusted our Dominican Daze itinerary, which stops in Puerto Plata [Dominican Republic], and we swapped it out for Costa Maya [Mexico]. 

“Our hearts go out to all of the people affected by Hurricane Fiona, and we look forward to showcasing the beauty of Puerto Rico when the time comes.”

Cruise industry body Clia said: “Our thoughts are with all of those affected by Hurricane Fiona.

“Clia and our cruise line members are in contact with partners in Puerto Rico and the eastern Caribbean as recovery efforts get underway.”

Share article

View Comments

Jacobs Media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 Queen's Award for Enterprise.

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more.