Carnival Cruise Line announced a schedule adjustment for its ship, Carnival Elation, in response to the approaching Tropical Storm Debby, which is expected to impact the Jacksonville area over the next a few days.
The cruise, originally scheduled to start on Monday, August 5, 2024, will begin a day earlier, on Sunday, August 4, 2024, to avoid the storm. This also means the current sailing will end a day early, on Sunday, instead of Monday. The current sailing of Carnival Elation is scheduled to dock at JAXPORT on Sunday.
Carnival Elation Returns to Jacksonville Early
A statement from Carnival to Cruise Radio said, “The safety of our guests and crew is our priority, and we are continuing to monitor forecasts and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard and the local port authorities to provide timely updates to our guests as more information becomes available.”
A text message Carnival passengers read:
| “We continue to monitor the tropical depression [STORM] that is approaching Florida. The depression is expected to impact the Jacksonville area over several days. To stay ahead of the storm, we will now be starting your cruise [CARNIVAL ELATION] tomorrow, Sunday, August 4, 2024. The extra day will be on us. Full details about embarkation and your options will be provided in an email shortly. Thanks for your understanding.” |
Carnival Elation passengers will receive an additional day at sea at no extra cost.
Compensation offered to Carnival Elation Passengers
In an email, Carnival informed guests that the cruise will now depart on Sunday, August 4, instead of Monday, August 5, to avoid the storm.
The extra day at sea will be free, including pre-purchased beverage and Wi-Fi packages, and gratuities. Check-in times will shift five hours later than previously scheduled, with all guests required to complete online check-in by 5:30 PM on Saturday, August 3.
Carnival will reimburse up to $200 per person for non-refundable air costs and change fees. Guests unable to sail can call by noon on Sunday, August 4, for a 100% future cruise credit and a refund for pre-purchased items.
Tropical Storm Keeps Margaritaville Ship at Sea
These changes come as the National Hurricane Center (NHC) tracks Tropical Storm Debby, which is continuing to gain strength. The NHC has indicated that the storm will likely bring heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region, focusing on the Jacksonville area and parts of North Florida.
Margaritaville at Sea has adjusted its schedule in Tampa due to adverse weather conditions. The Margaritaville at Sea Islander departed from Tampa on July 30 for a four-night cruise to the Caribbean and will extend its current cruise by one day. The ship was initially scheduled to return to its homeport on August 4.
Hurricane season highlights why all guests should consider purchasing trip insurance before the storm is named. Purchasing insurance after the storm is name voids the storm coverage on the policy.
This story is developing, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available.
READ MORE: What to Expect When Cruising During Hurricane Season
