Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas was forced to turn back during its recent voyage after a medical emergency onboard. The unexpected situation has caused a delayed return to Los Angeles and adjustments to the ship’s next sailing.
The incident occurred several hours after the ship departed Cabo San Lucas near the end of a six-night New Year’s cruise. According to guests onboard, a passenger became critically ill, requiring the ship to reverse course and return to Cabo.
After docking late in the evening, the guest was safely transferred ashore for medical care. The ship then resumed its journey, but the delay made it impossible to arrive back in Los Angeles on schedule.
Delayed Embarkation in Los Angeles
Royal Caribbean has informed guests booked on the January 5, 2026, sailing about the revised embarkation plans. The cruise terminal in Los Angeles will now open later than originally planned due to the delayed arrival.
Guests were advised that the terminal will remain closed until mid-afternoon, with boarding starting at 3:30 p.m. Parking access has also been adjusted, and all guests must be checked in by 7:00 p.m.
The affected sailing is a rare two-night cruise, which is shorter than the ship’s usual itineraries. These short cruises typically happen when schedules shift around holidays or seasonal deployments.
Quantum of the Seas remains scheduled to visit Ensenada, Mexico, despite the late departure. In fact, Royal Caribbean confirmed that the port stay has been extended, giving guests extra time ashore.
Extra Time in Ensenada
The ship is still expected to arrive in Ensenada at 8:00 a.m. on January 6. Departure from the port has been pushed back to 6:00 p.m., offering a longer visit than planned.
This extra time allows guests to enjoy more sightseeing, dining, or shopping in the port city. Ensenada’s close distance to Los Angeles made it possible to preserve the stop despite the delay.
Quantum of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s largest ships and can carry over 4,000 guests. The ship is currently homeported in Los Angeles and offers Mexican Riviera cruises through 2026.
The change follows a broader pattern across the industry, with Royal Caribbean also revising a 2026 Mediterranean cruise departure port in response to operational considerations.
Royal Caribbean has not released details about the medical situation, respecting guest privacy. The company emphasized that safety always comes first, even when it leads to schedule changes.
While the delay may shorten the cruise, many guests welcomed the added time in Ensenada. Once underway, Quantum of the Seas is expected to continue its schedule as planned for the rest of the season.
