How to Avoid a Hurricane while Cruising the Caribbean

Hurricane season typically runs from June through November but peak season for the destructive storms is generally August and September.  So if you’re concerned about a hurricane, common sense should tell you to pick an alternative destination during that time, including Hawaii, Alaska, the Mexican Riviera or Europe.  Also, keep in mind, if you’re searching for a summer cruise and the price seems low, it could be due in part to hurricane season. 

                                                          

If you’re set on cruising the Caribbean during the late summer then expect the unexpected.  If you have your heart set on visiting certain ports, then this probably isn’t the time to cruise.  Because of Hurricane Gustav, cruise lines have been rerouting their ships this past week and will continue to do so until the storm threat passes.  A western itinerary has turned into an eastern one, ports have been skipped or substituted and itineraries have been reversed.  Anything is possible.  With the latest satellite technology, the crew does its best to route the ship around the hurricane.  I remember a few years ago asking a fellow travel agent what it was like cruising during a hurricane and she said she had no idea how strong it was because the captain routed around it.  Also, you might get lucky, like I did.  My first cruise was a 10-day adventure in the Caribbean the last week of August and through Labor Day many years ago.  It was hot, windless and a trip I’ll never forget (for all the right reasons)!

It is unusual for a cruise to be cancelled because of a hurricane.  As mentioned, the itineraries are generally changed to accommodate passengers safely.  If you’re concerned you can check with the National Hurricane Center website at www.nhc.noaa.gov.  If a hurricane does hit and you’re cruising, that could be better than being stuck in a hotel where you can’t change your destination on a moment’s notice. 

Make sure to purchase insurance to cover your trip in case of cancellation or delay.  If your flights are delayed and you purchased air through the cruise line then your insurance should cover any incurred expenses.  If you purchase your air separately, the cruise line more than likely won’t cover delays so make sure the insurance you buy does.

Also, the southern Caribbean islands, including Aruba and Barbados may be safer ports as hurricanes generally hit locations further north in the Caribbean.  Of course you have to get to those ports and that means a likely departure from hurricane-prone Florida.

The bottom line, if you cruise through the Caribbean during the late summer months, be aware hurricanes are a possibility.  Don’t get your heart set on specific ports.  Be flexible.  Know that the cruise lines go through this every season and have installed the latest technology to keep you as safe and comfortable as possible.  Buy insurance to cover cancellation or delays.  And if you’re still uncomfortable with the thought of cruising during hurricane season, choose a different destination or date.

Happy travels!

 

Caribbean Cruise,  Hurricane Cruise,  Hurricane Gustav, Cruise Insurance