Norwegian debunks “forgotten” cruise ship reports

Norwegian Cruise Lines has released an update on its three ships currently at sea, estimating most guests will disembark by 22 March.

However, it is currently unconfirmed where or when Norwegian Spirit, which is currently sailing a revised 21-day itinerary from Dubai, will disembark.

Norwegian, like many other lines, has suspended all sailings embarking between 13 March and 11 April to help stem the spread of COVID-19; however, several ships were at sea at the time.

As countries close their ports and enforce stricter travel restrictions, it has become increasingly difficult for cruise ships to get permission to disembark passengers.

Norwegian Epic was scheduled to disembark in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 15 March following its seven-day Southern Caribbean cruise, but was denied entry and instead disembarked in Port Canaveral on 17 March.

Despite reports that Norwegian Jewel passengers do not know where or when they will disembark, Norwegian has confirmed passengers can expect to leave the ship on 22 March in Honolulu.

The 23-day Australia and French Polynesia itinerary was modified to disembark in Auckland, New Zealand on 20 March, but was denied entry.

On the other hand, the line does not currently have information regarding Norwegian Spirit‘s disembarkation but said it will share updates as they become available.

“Please know that we have been communicating with guests regularly and updating them as we have further information,” the line said in a statement.

“We greatly appreciate their patience and understanding during this evolving situation.”

Norwegian has confirmed that excluding the ships still sailing, all guests have disembarked and its business remains open.

“Our team is available to offer reassurance to our guests as well as assist them with future travel arrangements,” the line said.

The Australian government has temporarily banned all ships which sailed from a foreign port from entering Australian ports for at least 30 days.