Feature Article
Cruising Through A Hurricane
Stormy Waters
The Caribbean is probably one of your dream destinations - the only problem is, it's mostly everyone's dream destination, so the price won't be quite low. Except during the end of summer and beginning of autumn period - but there's a catch: it's hurricane season...
Nevertheless, you wouldn't be the only one venturing on a cruise then. The Caribbean is becoming an all-year destination, which should mean two things: that many people are willing to risk sailing into a hurricane rather than miss the renowned experience this spot has to offer, and that the risk itself is actually not that great. However, don't be surprised if there are last-minute changes in the cruise plans, due to the unpredictable weather conditions. For a clearer idea of what you're in for, you might want to go over the statistics: the top times for storms in the eastern part of the Caribbean tend to be from mid-August till late September, while other areas are more prone to storms towards the end of autumn - officially, the hurricane season lasts from June 1 to November 30.
It doesn't mean, of course, that you're sure to be sailing right into a hurricane. In fact, that risk is rather low - but not absent, so neither pessimism nor optimism should be taken to extreme. You shouldn't be surprised if certain ports which were originally on the destination list are skipped due to the likelihood of stormy weather. Therefore, if there is any certain place in the Caribbean that you want to visit by all means, you should consider choosing a different season for your cruise.
Naturally, all safety measures will be taken. Cruise lines do not want to risk losing passenger loyalty: a safe and pleasant voyage may determine you to repeat the experience the following year. Sophisticated weather monitoring equipment, combined with years of experience and tested emergency procedures will be used to keep all risks at a minimum.
Choosing a different port of call - if the ones originally planned are likely to be hit by a storm - is part of the above mentioned emergency procedures. The only problem is that, by avoiding unfavourable weather conditions, you risk not being able to dock at all: the safer ports might already be full and the ship might be forced to sail on, sometimes extending your journey by a few days.
If you're on a tight schedule, that may be quite unpleasant. And, since cruise lines maintain the right to change ports of call as they find suitable, you will not be entitled to any refund. You should therefore take time to read your cruise agreement in detail, so that you can decide if you want to resort to buying an insurance policy that can cover losses incurred due to such situations.
It is important to realize that, by choosing to sail during the stormy season, you are taking some risks. In spite of the complex measures taken by cruise lines to avert storms, you might still experience turbulence at sea. Don't forget to pack some seasickness medication - it's better to have it ready at any time than to line up for it before the infirmary. Also, take into account that your journey may be a few days longer than expected. Other than that, enjoy your cruise. You'll have a lot of exciting stories to tell when it's over.
Caribbean Cruise News
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Read moreCaribbean Cruise Links
Royal Caribbean International - Royal Caribbean Cruise Lineshttp://www.royalcaribbean.com/Provides premium cruises worldwide. Includes destinations, ships, services, and packages available, letter from the president, and FAQ. |
Celebrity Cruiseshttp://www.celebritycruises.com/Voted one of the World's Best Cruise Lines by Condé Nast Traveler - Top-Rated cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Panama Canal, Galapagos, Hawaii, ... |
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