Travelers on Carnival Celebration, MSC Seascape, and NCL Escape Can Expect Delays
After an unforeseen disruption on the high seas, PortMiami is open, and operations are back on track. Travelers on Carnival Celebration, MSC Seascape, and NCL Escape, however, should anticipate potential delays following the temporary closure of the PortMiami channel.
A navigation incident in the early hours of Sunday, June 25, 2023, involved a 30-foot boat hitting the Fisher Island Ferry near Miami, leading to a casualty and hospitalization. The collision caused the boat to sink and temporarily blocked the North and South channels of the port, preventing cruise ships from arriving and loading.
The US Coast Guard confirmed that the sunken vessel has since been successfully recovered and removed. The temporary safety zone established in the aftermath of the accident has now been lifted, and the port has reopened to all vessel traffic.
However, travelers aboard the Carnival Celebration, MSC Seascape, and NCL Escape should brace themselves for changes to their arrival and debarkation schedules. This may potentially affect passengers' onward travel plans, including flight connections.
"We have been in direct contact with our guests and will continue to provide them updates as we learn more information from officials," said a representative of Carnival Cruise Line in a statement to CNN. For real-time updates, passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective cruise lines via text or call.
Carnival passengers can text CCL3 to CRUISE (278473), MSC cruisers can call (833) 578-6488, and NCL travelers can dial (866) 234-7350 for the latest information.
Despite the unfortunate incident, the Fisher Island Ferry crew members are reported to be in good health, according to the US Coast Guard spokesperson Ryan Estrada.
