The weather situation has been changing rapidly, but major cruise lines have not yet canceled any cruises or said any ship voyages will be shortened or extended.
However, Hurricane Milton has become a truly dangerous storm.
Related: Royal Caribbean shares urgent warning about Hurricane Milton
“Data from both Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicates that Milton has strengthened to a Category 4 hurricane. Maximum sustained winds are estimated to be 150 mph (240 km/h). Milton is a Category 4 hurricane in the Saffir-Simpson hurricane wind scale,” the National Hurricane Center shared.
The agency explained what that information means in a separate “key messages” post.
“There is an increasing risk of life-threatening storm surge and damaging winds for parts of the Florida panhandle's west coast beginning Tuesday night or early Wednesday. Storm surge and hurricane watches are now in effect for parts of the west coast of Florida. The peninsula and residents of that area should follow the advice of local officials and evacuate if told to do so.
Cruise News Shares Latest Storm Update
Cruise News Today's Doug Parker opened his show by sharing an update on Hurricane Milton.
“All eyes are on the Caribbean as Hurricane Milton intensifies, and is expected to reach Category 3 or 4 before making landfall on Florida's Gulf Coast on Wednesday,” he shared. “Now, cruise ships departing from Miami, Tampa, Jacksonville, Port Canaveral, and the Everglades could be affected by port closures and itinerary changes.”
Several ships from various cruise lines have been affected.
“At the time of broadcast, Margaritaville Islander, Grandeur of the Seas, Harmony, Symphony, Wonder, Utopia, Celebrity Reflection and Carnival Pride are among those with affected itineraries. If you are cruising this week, stay tuned for your cruise line,” he added.
READ ALSO: Top travel agents share how to get the best price on your cruise
All Florida ports, Parker shared on his website, have a Coast Guard “x-Ray” rating. Here's a look at the Coast Guard's port condition key:
- Whiskey: Hurricane-force winds (39-54 mph) are expected within 72 hours. Ports remain open, but residents are advised to exercise caution and prepare.
- Radiography: Hurricane-force winds are expected within 48 hours. Ports are still open, but some restrictions may be imposed to begin securing operations.
- Yankee: Hurricane-force winds are expected within 24 hours. Ports are closed to incoming vessels and outgoing vessels may be restricted.
- Zulu: Hurricane-force winds are expected within 12 hours. Ports are completely closed to all incoming and outgoing vessels, and all operations cease.
Are you taking a cruise or thinking about one? Visit our Come Cruise With Me website to get answers to all your questions.
