Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas cruise ship will arrive in Tokyo, Japan, two days later than planned. A typhoon currently impacting Japan and the Far East has caused this change. The vessel, which began a trans-Pacific cruise from Los Angeles in late September, was initially scheduled to dock in Tokyo on October 9, 2025. The new arrival date is now October 11, 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Ovation of the Seas arrival in Tokyo delayed by two days due to Typhoon Halong.
- New docking date is October 11, 2025, instead of October 9, 2025.
- Royal Caribbean is offering internet vouchers and flight change reimbursements to affected passengers.
- The ship's next sailing from Tokyo to Singapore is also delayed.
Typhoon Forces Itinerary Change
Royal Caribbean confirmed the itinerary change in a statement sent to guests aboard the Ovation of the Seas. The company stated that its Chief Meteorologist, Creig Setzer, had been closely monitoring Typhoon Halong. This weather system is expected to pass very near southern Japan.
Due to the typhoon's projected path, the Port of Tokyo will be closed. This closure prevents the ship from docking as originally planned. The safety of passengers and crew is the cruise line's top priority, according to the statement. "We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change caused by the weather – your safety, along with that of our crew, is our top priority," Royal Caribbean communicated to its guests.
Typhoon Halong Impact
- Original Docking Date: October 9, 2025
- New Docking Date: October 11, 2025
- Reason: Port of Tokyo closure due to Typhoon Halong
- Current Cruise: Trans-Pacific, departed from Los Angeles
Safety Measures and Guest Support
Royal Caribbean emphasized that being on the ship is one of the safest places during inclement weather. Cruise ships are designed to move quickly and avoid severe conditions. This flexibility allows them to navigate away from the direct path of storms.
To help guests manage the unexpected delay, the cruise line is offering several forms of support. Passengers will receive a voucher for 60 minutes of free internet access. This allows them to contact family and friends and make necessary adjustments to their travel plans.
"Please know, being onboard is one of the safest places because our ship can quickly move out of the way of any inclement weather," Royal Caribbean stated.
The company is also assisting with flight arrangements. For guests who booked their flights through Royal Caribbean's Air2Sea Team, the company will automatically reschedule their flights. This aims to reduce stress and logistical challenges for travelers.
Financial Assistance for Independent Air Travel
Passengers who booked their air travel independently will also receive financial assistance. Royal Caribbean will cover air change fees up to a certain amount. For domestic flights, the reimbursement limit is $200 per person. For international flights, this limit increases to $400 per person.
This policy helps mitigate the financial impact of the typhoon-related delay on guests' post-cruise travel plans. The cruise line aims to provide practical solutions for those affected by the unforeseen circumstances. This support package reflects the company's commitment to passenger well-being even during weather-related disruptions.
Cruise Line Weather Protocols
Cruise lines routinely monitor weather patterns, especially in regions prone to tropical storms and typhoons. They employ meteorologists and use advanced tracking systems to ensure passenger safety. Itinerary changes are common during hurricane or typhoon seasons to avoid dangerous conditions, even if it means altering port calls or extending sea days. These decisions are made with guest and crew safety as the primary concern.
Additional Guest Perks and Future Sailing Impact
As a gesture of appreciation for guests' understanding, Royal Caribbean is providing further incentives. Passengers have the option to extend their existing beverage and internet packages at discounted rates. This allows them to continue enjoying these amenities during the extra days at sea.
The typhoon's impact extends beyond the current cruise. The Ovation of the Seas' next scheduled sailing is also affected. This upcoming voyage, an 11-night repositioning cruise to Singapore, was originally set to depart on October 9, 2025. This departure has now been delayed due to the ship's late arrival in Tokyo.
- Internet Voucher: 60 minutes complimentary access
- Air2Sea Bookings: Automatically rescheduled by Royal Caribbean
- Independent Air Bookings: Reimbursement up to $200 (domestic), $400 (international) per person
- Onboard Packages: Option to extend beverage and internet at discounted rates
Preparing for Future Cruise Disruptions
Travelers booking cruises, especially during known storm seasons, should always consider travel insurance. This can help cover unforeseen expenses related to itinerary changes, cancellations, or delays. Staying informed about weather forecasts for their destination is also crucial.
While cruise lines take extensive measures to ensure safety, natural events like typhoons can always lead to unexpected adjustments. Flexibility and preparedness are key for passengers embarking on international voyages. Royal Caribbean's actions in this situation demonstrate standard industry practices for managing weather-related disruptions.
The company will continue to provide updates to guests as the situation with Typhoon Halong develops. Passengers are advised to monitor communications from Royal Caribbean for the latest information regarding their travel plans.
