Severe winter weather across the eastern United States is once again affecting cruise operations, and Carnival Cruise Line has begun alerting guests about potential changes.
Passengers booked on Carnival Sunshine and Carnival Pride have been notified that weather conditions could impact return times, embarkation, and itineraries in the coming days.
With cold temperatures, strong winds, and rough seas forecasted along the coast, Carnival’s fleet operations team is closely monitoring the situation.
While safety remains the top priority, the cruise line is doing its best to keep guests informed as conditions continue to evolve.
Carnival Sunshine Faces Delayed Return to Norfolk
Carnival Sunshine has already been confirmed as affected by the weather. The cruise line announced that the ship will not be able to return to its homeport of Norfolk, Virginia, on Saturday, February 7, as originally scheduled.
The Port of Norfolk will be closed due to unfavorable weather, forcing the ship to arrive a day later on Sunday, February 8.
Because of the delay, the next sailing will be shortened from eight nights to seven. Carnival has advised guests that further details about embarkation timing and any changes to port visits will be shared once conditions become clearer.
The original itinerary included stops at Half Moon Cay, Grand Turk, and Amber Cove, but it remains uncertain whether all ports can still be accommodated.
This is not the first time weather has disrupted Carnival Sunshine in recent weeks. Several consecutive sailings have required route adjustments, early returns, or port cancellations as winter storms continue to impact the region.
Carnival Pride on Alert as Weather Continues
Carnival Pride is also being closely watched as it returns to Baltimore from a seven-night Bahamas cruise on Sunday, February 8. While no official schedule changes have been announced yet, Carnival has proactively warned guests that delays are possible if weather conditions worsen.
The cruise line has encouraged passengers to enroll in text alerts to receive timely updates. Carnival Pride has already faced weather-related disruptions earlier this winter, including a delayed return in January that resulted in a shortened sailing and a canceled port visit.
As winter storms persist, Carnival says it will continue to communicate with guests and travel partners, stressing flexibility and understanding while working to ensure safe and smooth operations wherever possible.
The disruptions come as Carnival Cruise Line continues broader operational planning, including an extensive drydock schedule planned across multiple ships in 2026.
