Norwegian Cruise Line's ship, Norwegian Escape, has altered its planned visit to Bermuda. The change is a direct response to Tropical Storm Gabrielle. The vessel will now have a shorter stay in the port of Royal Naval Dockyard to ensure the safety of passengers and crew.
The cruise, which departed from New York on Friday, September 19, 2025, was originally scheduled for an extended overnight stay in Bermuda. This itinerary adjustment highlights the cruise industry's focus on safety during severe weather events.
Key Takeaways
- Norwegian Escape will shorten its Bermuda visit due to Tropical Storm Gabrielle.
- The ship will call at Bermuda on Sunday, September 21, but will not stay overnight.
- The visit will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, cutting the original stay by 24 hours.
- Passenger and crew safety is the primary reason for the itinerary change.
- Other cruise lines may also adjust their Bermuda itineraries this weekend.
Itinerary Changes for Norwegian Escape
The Norwegian Escape began its 5-night sailing from New York on September 19, 2025. The original plan included an extended visit to Bermuda. This visit was set to last from 8 a.m. on Sunday, September 21, until 3 p.m. on Monday, September 22. This would have allowed passengers ample time to explore the island.
However, Tropical Storm Gabrielle's forecast path has led to a necessary change. The ship will now only be in Bermuda on Sunday, September 21. The revised schedule shows the ship arriving at 8 a.m. and departing at 3 p.m. This means the overnight stay has been canceled, shortening the port call by a full 24 hours.
Fact Check
An earlier glitch in the Norwegian Cruise Line app temporarily showed the itinerary change. However, as of Friday afternoon, the cruise line officially confirmed the adjustment. Guests are being notified directly about these updates.
Passenger Notification and Safety Protocols
Norwegian Cruise Line is informing booked guests about the revised schedule. Updates are also visible on the cruise line's official app. Passengers may need to log out and then log back in to see the most current port times. The decision prioritizes the well-being of everyone on board the ship.
"The safety of the ship, her guests, and her crew members is always the most important consideration," a statement from the cruise line emphasized.
This proactive measure helps avoid potential risks associated with severe weather. The ship's departure from New York and its return on Wednesday, September 24, remain unaffected by these changes.
Tropical Storm Gabrielle's Current Path
Tropical Storm Gabrielle is currently moving across the Atlantic Ocean. Its projected path indicates a close approach to Bermuda. According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), as of Friday morning, the storm was located approximately 945 miles southeast of Bermuda. It was moving west-northwest at 12 miles per hour.
Maximum sustained winds within the storm have been recorded at 50 miles per hour. Forecasters expect Gabrielle to strengthen. By Sunday, it could become an official hurricane, potentially reaching Category 1 or 2 status.
Storm Evolution
The storm's track shows it turning northwest by Friday night, then further north by Sunday night. Early next week, Gabrielle is predicted to turn east as it passes Bermuda. While a direct landfall on the island is not expected, the storm will be closest to Bermuda on Sunday night and into Monday, remaining east of the island.
Impact on Bermuda and Cruise Operations
The timing of Gabrielle's closest approach coincides with the Norwegian Escape's original extended visit. This means that during the planned overnight stay, Bermuda would experience the worst of the storm's winds and waves. High winds could make it dangerous for passengers to use the ship's gangways. Strong waves also pose a risk of the ship impacting the pier. These conditions necessitate the itinerary change.
Cruise lines often adjust schedules during hurricane season to protect their ships and passengers. This year, despite predictions for an active season, it has been relatively quiet, with Bermuda-bound cruises being a notable exception.
Potential Impacts on Other Cruise Ships
While Norwegian Escape is the first ship to officially alter its plans, other cruise lines may follow suit. Several ships have Bermuda itineraries scheduled for this weekend and early next week.
- Carnival Venezia: This ship is scheduled to be in Bermuda on Saturday, September 20. At that time, Tropical Storm Gabrielle is expected to be far enough away that an impact is unlikely.
- Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas: This vessel is scheduled to begin an overnight visit to Bermuda on Monday, September 22, 2025. This timing places it near the storm's closest approach. It is possible that this itinerary could be adjusted. The ship might arrive later than planned or be rerouted entirely to avoid the storm.
- Norwegian Aqua: This ship is scheduled to arrive in Bermuda on Tuesday, September 23. By this point, Gabrielle is expected to have moved further away, minimizing any potential impacts.
Staying Informed During Hurricane Season
Passengers booked on any Bermuda itinerary this weekend or early next week should remain in close contact with their cruise line. Cruise lines provide prompt updates and notifications regarding any changes to itineraries. This ensures that guests have the most current information for their travel plans.
Cruising during hurricane season requires passengers to be flexible and prepared for possible adjustments. These changes are always made with passenger safety as the highest priority. It is important to monitor official weather forecasts and communications from the cruise operator.
