cruise ship in bad waves

Watch: Massive rogue wave batters cruise ship in North Sea

A deadly storm in northern europe churned up a massive rogue wave which terrified cruise ship passengers on one vessel and disabled another ship. the cruise line initially reported no serious injuries, but german media reported that three passengers were taken to a hospital upon disembarking. passengers reported broken bones, scrapes and bruises..

Cruise ship rocked by massive rogue wave in the North Sea

Rough weather in the North Sea churned up massive waves which battered a cruise ship in the North Sea.  "I love it," said the tour operator. "However, a few of my guests are not so happy." 

A rogue wave terrified cruise ship passengers on the North Sea on Thursday as it towered over and tossed the ship, Tour Operator Thorsten Hansen told TMX.

"I love it," posted Hansen on social media . "However, a few of my guests are not so happy."

The video shows the rogue wave ahead of the Otto Sverdrup off the coast of Germany on Friday. The ship is over 450 feet long, 70 feet wide, almost 16,000 tons, and has eight decks, and still, the freak wave dwarfed the ship. The Otto Sverdrup can hold up to 500 passengers.

WHAT IS A ROGUE WAVE? THOSE MONSTERS OF THE OCEAN ARE MORE COMMON THAN YOU THINK

The rogue wave that tossed a Norwegian cruise ship.

(Credit: Thorsten Hansen/Tour operator and HX Hurtigruten Expeditions Agency /TMX / FOX Weather)

Storm Pia's hurricane-force winds punished the North Sea and much of Europe Thursday and Friday, according to the Danish Meteorological Institute. The rough seas interacting with the ocean floor and coasts built up the rogue wave, which can be twice the size of surrounding waves, according to NOAA.

Hansen said the wave was the same one that hit a nearby cruise ship, the Maud, at about the same time. The wave smashed at least two windows on the bridge of the more than 16,000-ton ship, and the incoming seawater knocked out the navigation system and radar . It threw the ship with 266 passengers and 131 crew into darkness as the power failed, according to local media and the cruise line HX .

The crew was able to restart one motor, according to a trade paper .

WATCH: PLANES ABORT HARROWING LANDINGS IN ENGLAND AS STORM PIA RAKES US WITH 50-80 MPH GUSTS

File: A photo of the Maud at port before the accident.

(Refinitive Eikon, Magnus Thor Hafsteinsson / FOX Weather)

"Spent 4 hours in survival suits and life vests while the Danish Coastguard and local oil rigs sent out rescue boats to escort us and provide navigation as the crew manually steered the boat from the engine room," one passenger wrote on Facebook. "Hands down, one of the scariest nights of my life in gale force winds and 11 meter (36 feet) waves."

The ship was about 125 miles off the coast of Denmark on a trip from Norway to England.

PASSENGER KILLED AFTER ROGUE WAVE SMASHES INTO CRUISE SHIP

The purple shows the path of the ship from Norway to 120 miles off the coast of Denmark. The United Kingdom is to the west.

"There were about 20 minutes in which I thought the ship might capsize, it was rocking so much and we had no idea what had happened," an American passenger posted on X, formerly Twitter.

The cruise line initially reported no serious injuries, but German media reported that three passengers were taken to a hospital upon disembarking. Passengers reported broken bones, scrapes and bruises.

Storm Pia altered the course of the ship. Local media reported that about 200 people disembarked in Norway due to the bad weather before the accident. 

The ship limped to Bremerhaven, Germany, where many passengers had to stay aboard due to limited flights out of the area. 

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Pia churned up huge surf swamping coastal towns. People walk on the pier in Hammerhavn near Sandvig on the Baltic Sea island of Bornholm, Denmark, on December 22, 2023, after storm Pia hit the country.

(PELLE RINK/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP / Getty Images)

HX reported that the ship is not expected to return to service until February after repairs.

Passengers and crew on the Otto Sverdrup were rushed off the vessel because Storm Pia flooding closed the harbor, according to Hansen.

High seas knocked containers from cargo ships as well. On Saturday, beaches in Norway were littered with goods.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Several containers stranded between Tranum and Slette beach, northern Norway, on December 23, 2023 after being lost in the North Sea during storm Pia. 

(CLAUS BJOERN LARSEN/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP / Getty Images)

Elsewhere, Storm Pia blew over a 65-foot Christmas tree onto a woman, killing her, in Belgium, according to AP . Another person was killed by another falling tree in the Netherlands.

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'I really thought I wasn't going to make it back': Carnival cruise ship rocked by weather

A Carnival Cruise Line ship was rocked by rough weather on its way back to the U.S. over the weekend. Carnival Sunshine had been sailing on a round-trip Bahamas cruise from Charleston, South Carolina, when it got delayed ahead of its return Saturday.

“It felt like it was tilting all the way to one side at one point,” said Kathleen Meenan, a passenger who went on the cruise with her husband for their wedding anniversary. “I really thought I wasn't going to make it back to shore.”

Meenan, a 26-year-old social media strategist based in Charlotte, North Carolina, has been on several other cruises and said she is used to rocking in the waves but likened the sounds to the ship “being attacked.”

“It was shaking us so violently,” RJ Whited, another guest, told Charleston’s WCIV .

“The weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecasted,” a Carnival spokesperson said in an email. “Given the circumstances as they were, the ship’s officers and our Fleet Operations Center team coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location. Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous.”

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The spokesperson said the ship went on to the port as soon as the weather started to clear. The ship’s arrival in Charleston was delayed, as was embarkation for the vessel’s following sailing. “We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests,” they said. The ship is currently on a five-day Bahamas sailing and will return to Charleston on Thursday.

Meenan said the crew announced that they were heading into some rough weather on Friday afternoon, advising them to hold onto handrails and warning of a potential delay, but did not communicate further until the following morning. “It felt like just being trapped,” she said.

The cruise line’s spokesperson said the captain “made several announcements about the weather and the delay it caused in returning to Charleston, asking guests to use extra precaution while walking around the ship.”

“Some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made, but guests and crew were safe,” the spokesperson added. “The ship’s officers worked through the night to minimize discomfort as much as possible from the added movement caused by the rough ocean.”

Meenan also noted that the crew worked hard to make the remainder of the sailing pleasant for passengers. “Even the next day, they all had smiles on their faces and tried their best to make it a nice day for us,” she said. 

While she said she will cruise again, it may take some time. “I think that it’s going to be a while,” Meenan said.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected] .

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Breaking news, video shows carnival cruise ship in disarray after ‘horrific’ south carolina storm.

Terrified passengers on a Carnival cruise were left vomiting after a torrential storm pounded the ship in South Carolina — flooding the vessel and ripping doors off their hinges.

The Carnival Sunshine was returning to Charleston following a week-long trip in the Bahamas when it got caught in wild weather and rough seas over the Memorial Day weekend.

Videos shared online by vacationers show flooded hallways littered with glass and other debris, doors ripped off their hinges and downed pipes laying soaked on the floor.

The ship’s crew members were forced to evacuate their flooded quarters, according to a video shared on Twitter that shows the area in disarray.

Throughout the storm, several passengers also complained they were starting to feel sick due to the boat’s rough movements.

One traveler described being able to “smell people being sick walking down the halls,” the Daily Mail Reported .

Cruise-goer RJ Whited, who was celebrating his engagement to fiancé Tracy on the Carnival Sunshine, told WCIV that the ship was shaking “so violently.”

Passengers also complained that they didn’t hear from the ship’s captain or any crew members for hours during the chaos.

“They left us blind,” passenger Daniel Taylor told the outlet. “Not reassuring us about what was going on, where we were headed to, what the plan was. They could have updated us and let us know something.”

Another passenger, Christa Seifert-Alicea, said they didn’t receive word from the captain or crew for more than 12 hours.

“What we endured is indescribable, not only to feel it yourself but to hear and see it set in on every single person around you from adult, child and the elderly is something I will never forget,” Seifer-Alicea said.

Water damage and broken glass were left in the hallways and rooms following the storm.

A Carnival spokesperson said only a “small number” of passengers and crew members required “minor assistance.”

“Carnival Sunshine’s return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. Guests on board the ship were safe. Our medical staff helped a small number of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance,” the cruise liner said in a statement to WCIV.

“The weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival on Sunday and as a result, the next voyage’s embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests.”

The spokesperson added that the Carnival Sunshine is now sailing on a five-day Bahamas cruise and will return to Charleston on Thursday.

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Carnival passengers recount ‘nightmare’ cruise as storm floods ship

Videos showed the Carnival Sunshine cabins and hallways flooding and ceilings leaking

Matthew Branham and his fiancée, Madison Davis, were lying by a Carnival Sunshine pool on Friday aboard a cruise returning to Charleston, S.C., from the Bahamas when an announcement came over the loudspeaker. The captain was expecting rougher weather that evening, but there was nothing to worry about. So Branham and Davis didn’t worry.

As the day went on, “We noticed it started getting cooler in the afternoon — much, much cooler,” said Branham, 25, of Castlewood, Va. “And then it was like a switch was flipped, and it literally turned into a nightmare.”

En route back to Charleston Friday night into Saturday, the Carnival Sunshine navigated into a strong storm system that battered the southeast over the holiday weekend. Videos emerged on social media showing cabins and hallways flooding, shop floors littered with destroyed merchandise and leaking ceilings . Passenger Brad Morrell snapped a photo of an automated instrument map reporting a 69 knot, or 79 mph, wind.

#CarnivalSunshine : Due to return to Charleston, South Carolina this Saturday, May 27, 2023, has been delayed due to severe weather. The ship is currently off the South Carolina coast and holding position, unable to return to the port because of high winds & rough seas. #cruise 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/2B6HlAn2yD — ∼Marietta (@MariettaDaviz) May 28, 2023

Carnival said in a statement that the weather was unexpectedly strong, causing conditions that were rougher than forecast, but that its fleet operations center team, which relies on outside meteorology resources for itinerary planning, “coordinated to keep the ship in its safest location.”

“Attempting to sail out of the large front could have been dangerous,” the statement continued. “The ship proceeded to the port as soon as the weather began to clear.”

Strong Southeast storm slams Carolinas

Carnival said the captain made “several announcements about the weather and the delay it caused in returning to Charleston, asking guests to use extra precaution while walking around the ship.” Additionally, “some of the worst weather occurred in the overnight hours when announcements are not typically made, but guests and crew were safe.”

The ship’s medical staff did help a “small number” of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance following the storm. Despite the significant damage and a delay in schedule, Carnival Sunshine embarked on its next five-day Bahama sailing on Saturday.

From their sea-view room, Branham and Davis watched as waves surged over their window and braced themselves as the 892-foot-long ship lurched in the storm.

“Waves were hitting the boat so hard that it was like an earthquake experience, jarring you like a really rough roller coaster — even in the middle floor,” Branham said.

They were told to stay in their cabins. Meanwhile, Branham said, TVs were falling off walls, and glassware was sliding off shelves and shattering on the floor. “You could not stand up in your room,” he said. “You could be thrown from the bed.”

They packed up their belongings when their floor started to flood and took shelter in a main lobby area.

“All of the employees were sprinting downstairs with life vests,” Branham said. “There were little kids besides us screaming and crying and throwing fits.”

Throughout the storm, Branham wondered why there weren’t more announcements from Carnival staff. Besides the warning of rougher seas earlier Friday and one Saturday morning after they’d weathered the storm, Branham said they weren’t given any official updates on their situation. When he asked workers what was going on, they told him not to worry.

⁦⁦ @CarnivalCruise ⁩ #carnivalsunshine still 75mph winds at 9:25am. Sitting and spinning in the Atlantic. pic.twitter.com/NITCO2l9Ss — FlyersCaptain™®© (@flyerscaptain) May 29, 2023

“But you see rooms flooded, and you can pick up a handful of sand and you’re kind of like, ‘What in the world? Why is nobody telling us anything?’” Branham said.

Jim Walker, a maritime lawyer and cruise industry legal expert, says his firm has been contacted by some Carnival Sunshine passengers who were injured during the storm, including a man who says he was struck by a door and broke his foot. Others have asked him about the potential for a class-action lawsuit.

While Walker said passengers should make their complaints known to Carnival, he doesn’t believe filing a lawsuit would be an efficient next step. Instead, impacted passengers can ask Carnival for a refund or a credit for another cruise, although there’s no guarantee the cruise line will grant such requests.

Pete Peterson, owner of Storybook Cruises , which is affiliated with Cruise Planners, said cruise ships keep a close eye on weather developments and will adjust their itinerary depending on the severity of the storm.

“Cruise lines monitor the weather all the time. They’re not going to put their passengers in harm’s way,” said Peterson, who has been a cruise adviser for more than 20 years and has sailed on nearly 60 cruises. “Obviously, some cruise lines are better at doing this than others.”

In 2016, Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas returned to port after cruising into a “bomb cyclone,” which damaged the ship amid winds gusting to 100 mph. The ship sailed into the remnants of Hurricane Hermine seven months later, causing additional problems.

To ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers, a cruise ship can alter its course and circumvent the rough weather system. In stormy conditions, the crew can deploy the stabilizers, which will prevent the ship from rolling and bucking.

“You don’t experience the up and down,” Peterson said. “It’s not as rough a ride.”

Both approaches can add to a cruise line’s expenditures, Peterson said. Stabilizers slow the vessel, thereby consuming more fuel. Sailing around the storm can take longer than the original route and disrupt the company’s cruise schedule, leading to delays or cancellations. The cruise line may have to reimburse passengers or provide them with future credits because of the inconvenience.

“When they do something like that, it’s going to cost them money,” Peterson said.

Craig Setzer , a meteorologist and hurricane preparedness specialist, said that even with the hurricane-like conditions and flooding, “I would never be in doubt of the vessel’s integrity,” he said. “Cruise ships are structurally very, very sound and can survive a lot. They’re really rugged.”

Matthew Cappucci contributed to this report.

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A Norwegian cruise liner carrying hundreds of passengers weathered a “terrifying” storm before a freak wave temporarily took out its power, stomach-churning footage showed.

Tour operator Thorsten Hansen shared a video of the foamy waves battering the hull of the MS Maud, which made headlines Thursday when its electricity failed mid-voyage.

“A few of my guests are not so happy. But most of them are very brave and find it very interesting,” he wrote on Facebook.

“We’re watching films in our room. Every time we move we nearly go flying,” one passenger commented under Hansen’s post.

Another clip shared on X showed the view of the terrifying swells from the glamorous windows of an on-board suit, which tilted precariously toward the water between each wave.

“No fun on the Maud just now,” the person behind the camera captioned the footage.

The vessel carrying 266 passengers and 131 crew suffered shattered windows on its bridge when it encountered a powerful storm in the North Sea late Thursday.

Danish authorities said, everyone on board was marked safe, and the ship is being towed to Bremerhaven in Germany, officials with the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre said.

The ship’s main engine is still functioning, so the vessel can be steered from the engine room.

One passenger, Elizabeth Lawrence, wrote on X that the storm was a “terrifying experience.”

“I’ll be honest, there was about 20 minutes yesterday where I thought the ship might capsize, it was rolling so heavily and we didn’t have any idea what had happened,” she said.

“It really hit home when they started handing out orange survival suits to everyone,” Lawrence explained.

Lawrence said her group took shelter between buffet tables to avoid “flying chairs and furniture.”

The MS Maud, which is run by the cruise company HX, a unit of Norway’s Hurtigruten Group, left Floroe in Norway on Thursday and was scheduled to arrive in Tilbury in Great Britain on Friday.

The ship was named after a famous polar ship from the 20th century, the cruise line’s website explained.

The MS Maud’s on-board technology makes her “exceptionally well-suited” to trips through Norway and the British Isles, the company boasted.

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A trip on the Maud can cost up to $10,000, according to the website.

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40-foot waves batter cruise ship, shattering glass, causing flooding, terrifying passengers: ‘Things were crashing all around us’

• Published: May. 30, 2023, 11:11 a.m.

A storm with 40-foot waves battered the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship on Friday, delaying its arrival in Charleston, South Carolina. Terrified passengers described glass shattering and water pouring into the ship. Here the ship is seen docked in Charleston in 2020 (AP Photo/Mic Smith, File) AP

• Robert Higgs, cleveland.com

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- A storm with 40-foot waves battered the cruise ship Carnival Sunshine late Friday night, breaking glass, causing water to pour into the ship and terrifying passengers.

The ship, en route from the Bahamas to Charleston, encountered the storm off the South Carolina coast.

“We had a 40-foot wave hit our side of the ship. We almost fell out the bed. Things were crashing all around us and the carpet on my side of the bed was soaked (because) water came in thru our balcony door,” passenger Goodwin Sherbert wrote on Facebook .

Passenger William B. Blackburn, aboard for his first cruise with his wife and other family members, told CNN they stayed in their cabin and prayed they would be OK.

“(We) discussed the fact that it would be very unlikely to survive in the water even with life jackets and doubted that lifeboats could even be launched in those conditions,” he said. “It was terrifying.”

Video posted to Twitter under the handle @CrewCenter showed water running up and down a hallway and said the crew on one deck had to be evacuated to another part of the ship.

At one point the ship was listing to the left, CBS News reported .

“The ship took a hit from a wave that sounded like the ship split in two,” passenger Sharon Tutrone, a professor at Coastal Carolina University, said in a Twitter post .

Some passengers complained to CNN and CBS News about a lack of communication from cruise staff as the ship was pitching about.

Tutrone said the only time passengers heard from the captain was on Friday when he told them he had an experienced crew and would do everything he could to minimize discomfort as the ship encountered the storm.

Some passengers and crew members needed “minor assistance” from medical staff, a Carnival cruise spokesperson told CBS News. “Guests on board the ship were safe,” the spokesperson added.

The ship’s docking in Charleston was delayed by the weather. Some repairs to crew quarters also delayed its departure over the weekend to return to the Bahamas.

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The National Hurricane Center warned on Friday that a non-tropical area of low pressure off Florida was set to move northward and inland over the Carolinas during the weekend. Forecasters said there would be gusty winds, dangerous surf and rip current conditions along parts of the southeastern coast of the United States through Sunday.

Passenger Bill Hassler, who told CNN he was “surprised I’m still alive” after enduring the storm, criticized the cruise line for allowing the ship to sail into such extreme weather.

“Why would you sail into this storm with 80 mph-plus winds, I mean who does that?” Hassler said. “What were they thinking?”

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Travel | Videos show flooded decks as severe weather…

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Travel | videos show flooded decks as severe weather strikes carnival cruise ship.

“Carnival Sunshine’s return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday,” the cruise line said in an emailed statement Monday. “The weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival and as a result, the next voyage’s embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests. Carnival Sunshine is now sailing on its next cruise.”

The high seas were associated with a non-tropical low mixed with a storm front that had been sitting on Florida all week that the National Hurricane Center had been keeping tabs on, noting a small chance it could form into a tropical or subtropical depression.

As the system moved up toward the Carolina coast, gale and high seas warnings were issued from Florida up to Virginia, and Carnival Sunshine endured some of those effects as it waited to get into port. Weather reports showed winds in the area of up to 75 mph.

The aftermath aboard Carnival Sunshine after a severe storm. The crew from Deck 0-4 evacuated to the theater, and anywhere they could rest… the crew bar destroyed. pic.twitter.com/MqsDJYvrSG — Crew Center (@CrewCenter) May 28, 2023

Videos on social media showed some of the damage. One post from the Twitter account @CrewCenter, associated with website Crew-Center.com, which is run by former ship crew, showed “the aftermath aboard Carnival Sunshine after a severe storm. The crew from Deck 0-4 evacuated to the theater, and anywhere they could rest… the crew bar destroyed.”

The website report stated there were no injuries, but passenger space on Deck 2 also experienced flooded hallways and staterooms.

@CarnivalCruise #carnivalsunshine . This was on Deck 12 at 11:38pm. We were in the piano bar right before when 30+ bottles of liquor jumped off of the bar and broke. We were told to leave the piano bar as there was liquor running across the floor. pic.twitter.com/2t1OLwY4go — FlyersCaptain™®© (@flyerscaptain) May 29, 2023

Passengers in public spaces reported bottles flying off shelves as the waves of more than 12 feet rocked the ship.

A Twitter post from @FlyersCaptain said “We were in the piano bar right before when 30+ bottles of liquor jumped off of the bar and broke. We were told to leave the piano bar as there was liquor running across the floor.”

After a major makeover, the cruise line renamed what was the Carnival Destiny to Carnival Sunshine in 2013. It has a passenger capacity of 3,002 based on double occupancy.

The ship sails year-round on a variety of itineraries from Charleston.

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100 cruise passengers injured, some "flung to the floor" and "holding on for dear life" as ship hits fierce storm on way to U.K.

By Emily Mae Czachor

November 9, 2023 / 10:55 AM EST / CBS News

About 100 cruise ship passengers were injured last week when a fierce storm — which had cut short their scheduled trip around the Canary Islands — ended up hitting the ship in the Bay of Biscay as it routed back to the United Kingdom. Five passengers needed treatment in onboard medical facilities for more serious injuries, while the rest were described as minor. 

Nigel Banks, the CEO of British company Saga Cruises, said Spirit of Discovery had safely returned to the U.K. and all passengers had disembarked in a statement to CBS News on Thursday.

"We have apologised to all our guests who experienced such difficult weather conditions; we know that this was a very distressing experience for them," Banks said in the statement. 

Spirit of Discovery was carrying roughly 1,000 passengers on a two-week journey from Portsmouth, in southern England, through the Canary Islands off the western coast of Spain. The 14-night  "Canary Island Quintet" cruise , operated by Saga Cruises, left from Portsmouth on Oct. 24 and completed the first nine days of its prepared itinerary before beginning to confront a bout of bad weather. 

Conditions prompted the ship's captain to cancel their next planned stop in Las Palmas, where they were due to travel from the capital of Fuerteventura, another place in the Canary Islands, on Nov. 2. Instead, Spirit of Discovery changed directions to route toward the northwestern tip of mainland Spain, where the captain intended to dock the ship at La Coruña.

But while en route to the Spanish seaside town on the edge of the Bay of Biscay, the captain received word that the port at La Coruña would be closed because of bad weather. Hoping to stay ahead of the storm, the captain decided to start routing Spirit of Discovery back to the U.K. earlier than originally planned.

Spirit of Discovery encountered massive, tumultuous waves while crossing the Bay of Biscay, a body of water bordering Span and France that is known at times for especially turbulent currents. While crossing the bay, the ship's propulsion safety system activated and caused it to jerk suddenly to one direction, which essentially brought the vessel to a halt. 

A social media user on X said their parents were passengers on Spirit of Discovery during the cruise. 

"My elderly parents on board the Saga Spirit of Discovery and have also had a horrendous time in the storm, including getting flung to the floor in the dining room with tables and crockery falling on them," the post read , adding, "Why did the captain rush from the Canaries into the storm?"

One passenger, Alan Grisedale, filmed the enormous waves that rocked Spirit of Discovery in the Bay of Biscay and shared the footage with BBC News . Grisedale said the force against the ship was so great that his wife was knocked over, and furniture was pushed around inside their cabin, the BBC reported . Another passenger on the ship recalled in comments to the BBC that "tables were flying" and waves were "throwing people around all up and down the place."

Jan Bendall, a 75-year-old passenger who had taken the cruise with her husband, told the BBC that Spirit of Discovery remained stationary in the Bay of Biscay for about 15 hours while "caught in the middle of the storm." Bendall said that she and her husband were "holding on for dear life."

Banks, the cruise line's CEO, said the crew did "everything we could" to keep passengers safe.   

"We operate to the highest health and safety protocols and every decision was made based on advice from the ship's Master and forecasts from our dedicated marine meteorologists," Banks said in his statement. "We did everything we could at all times to keep our guests as safe as possible and to support them through the storm, including expert medical attention for those injured. I want to thank our guests for their patience and understanding and all our crew, who went over and above to care for everyone onboard."

• United Kingdom

Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She covers breaking news, often focusing on crime and extreme weather. Emily Mae has previously written for outlets including the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek.

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Norwegian cruise ship loses ability to navigate after rogue wave hits

A Norwegian cruise ship lost the ability to navigate after a rogue wave crashed into it Thursday, the cruise company HX said.

The MS Maud lost power after the wave hit as the ship was sailing toward Tilbury, England, from Florø, Norway, HX, a unit of Norway’s Hurtigruten Group, said in a statement.

None of the 266 passengers or 131 crew members were seriously injured, HX said.

"The situation is stable, the ship has propulsion and they are able to navigate the ship manually via emergency systems," the Danish Joint Rescue Coordination Centre said in a statement Friday local time.

The rogue wave shattered windows on the ship's bridge, which caused water to enter the vessel and resulted in a power outage, Reuters reported.

The ship was in the North Sea at the time, in an area hit by a storm late Thursday with hurricane-force gusts forecast to continue Friday, the Danish Meteorological Institute said according to Reuters.

One passenger posted a video on Facebook showing the view from her room's window Thursday with the cruise ship bobbing up and down and creaking in the throes of high waves. 

Because of a lack of navigational abilities, the ship had to be steered manually from the engine room, per the news agency.

Two civilian support vessels are aiding the ship in its journey to port, Danish rescue authorities said.

The ship, traveling under its own power, is currently sailing to Bremerhaven, Germany, for disembarkation, HX said in an updated statement Friday.

“Following ongoing safety checks and technical assessments, given the weather conditions, we decided to amend the planned sailing route. Across the fleet, there are thorough operational protocols in place and we always prioritize the safety of those onboard,” HX said.

"Our team are working to arrange onward travel back home for guests onboard," the statement added.

Irene Byon is a booking producer for NBC News.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.

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Terrified cruise passenger feared she would die in ‘horror’ storm – so she turned on Strictly

Carol lake feared for worst when spirit of discovery ship was hit by storm in bay of biscay, article bookmarked.

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A terrified passenger on board a cruise ship that was battered by a storm has described fearing for her life as 30ft waves crashed against the boat – and revealed she turned to Strictly to get her through it.

The “nightmare” faced by Carol Lake on The Spirit of Discovery was a long way from the electric jive performed by Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin on Saturday’s show, but for the 63-year-old it was the perfect distraction.

After hurting her head when the boat’s safety system caused a sudden jolt during the storm, she, along with the 1,000 other passengers, was asked to go to her cabin as the ship held its position in the rocky waters of the Bay of Biscay on Saturday.

And with the boat “swaying like a pendulum” in the towering waves, the radio presenter turned to the Saturday night television staple watched by millions to distract her from the “horror movie” outside.

“I’d packed my bag early but realised no one in the Bay of Biscay was coming to rescue us if we went over and thought for the first time I wasn’t going to make it,” Ms Lake told The Independent .

“I have had a good life and thought ‘this is it then’ as I could hear others in alarm around me - and so I turned the television on and watched Strictly.

“It was like a horror movie outside with the waves going up so high. I just tried to keep a tad of normality in a situation I had absolutely no control over, plus I could turn the sound up to drown the ferociously howling winds.”

Were you, or anyone you know, on board the Spirit of Discovery? Email [email protected]

The varied dance routines of Strictly’s nine remaining couples offered some comfort to the radio presenter, who had earlier suffered injuries to her wrist and head when the vessel’s safety system forced it to veer suddenly to the left before bringing it to a halt in the worsening storm.

The “almighty crash” happened only moments after Ms Lake had sat down in the main dining hall at the rear of the boat.

“I was sat down when my glass of Hush Heath moved across the table,” she said. “I moved my hand to stop it when there was an almighty crash and everything moved including my table which fell against another table and trapped my wrist.

“I lost control and fell back and hit my head on the wall behind me. I sat up from the floor feeling dazed - I was in shock as I couldn’t really hear anything but people said there was screaming around me.”

Ms Lake was checked on by a health worker before being taken in a wheelchair back to her cabin, where she remained until the extreme weather had passed.

“I was so frightened,” she said. “I thought this is it and I wished I’d rewritten my will because I wasn’t going home.”

Back on dry land at Portsmouth on Monday, Ms Lake and other passengers received a letter from Saga Cruises CEO Nigel Blanks saying they would get details about compensation in the coming days.

The 14-day over-50s cruise had been around the Canary Islands and was intended to moor at La Coruna port in northwestern Spain, before bad weather closed the port and the boat headed across Biscay on the way to the UK.

Ms Lake is among many passengers who have spoken of their nightmare experience on board.

Jan Bendall, 75, told the BBC that she and her husband were “holding on for dear life” during the storm and added: “It was quite frightening, I’m not somebody who frightens easily, it was quite dramatic.”

Out of the 100 guests hurt, the “vast majority” were left with minor injuries, although five needed treatment for more serious injuries in the ship’s medical facilities, according to Saga Cruises.

A company statement said: “Spirit of Discovery was sadly caught in the challenging weather conditions this weekend, as she started her return to the UK.

“The ship remained safe at all times, but due to the impact of the storm some guests sustained injuries. All were treated immediately by onboard medical staff.

“While the weather is clearly beyond our control, we want to offer our sincere apologies to all those affected who are now safely on their way home in calmer seas.”

This article was amended on 8 November 2023. It originally said that Johnny Pacheco and Celia Cruz had performed a dance, but this was inaccurate. They are not on the show and the dance referred to was performed by Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin.

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'We Had Crew Crying': Video Shows Cruise Ship Pummeled By Massive Waves, 100 Passengers Injured The Spirit of Discovery was headed back to the U.K. after the captain heard of inclement weather approaching.

By Emily Rella Nov 9, 2023

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

It was every cruisegoer's worst nightmare come true last week when violent storms and sky-high waves caused roughly 100 passengers to be injured, five of which were considered to be serious.

Passengers onboard Saga Cruises' Spirit of Discovery were on day nine of a two-week journey from Southern England through the Canary Islands, located off the coast of Spain. While crossing the Bay of Biscay (which borders France and Spain), the ship was pummeled by massive waves.

"People were writing texts to their loved ones in case we capsized," one passenger told BBC News . "The tone of voice in our captain... he was physically scared. We had crew crying. We had many passengers in awful states of fear."

The passenger also told the outlet that there were passengers who suffered "horrific broken bones, pelvises, lacerations, stitches," and that the majority of the clientele was elderly.

Multiple users took to social media to document experiences that loved ones were having while onboard the ship.

I've heard from my in-laws that they've got 7 passengers are needing hospitalisation and a 150 have needed treatment onboard. Hope the people needing hospitalisation aren't too seriously injured. Questions definitely need answering! — (@KattyB08) November 6, 2023

WATCH: BBC reports "tables were flying" as waves threw people "all up and down the place", say passengers on UK cruise ship 'Spirit of discovery' caught in storm. 100 people got injured as 30ft waves battered the ship windows. pic.twitter.com/NWZh2tL2ff — Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) November 7, 2023

Although the ship was originally supposed to dock in Las Palmas, the ship's captain decided to change directions due to weather and instead attempted to dock the ship at La Coruña near the northwest tip of Spain.

Related: After Drake Passage 'Rogue' Wave, Cruise Passengers Speak Out

But then the captain received word that La Coruña was closing because of the incoming storm, resulting in the ship rerouting back to England.

Related: Cruise Passengers Go Flying During Storm in Florida: Video

"Spirit of Discovery was sadly caught in the challenging weather conditions this weekend, as she started her return to the UK. The ship remained safe at all times, but due to the impact of the storm some guests sustained injuries," a spokesperson for Saga Cruises told The Independent . "All were treated immediately by onboard medical staff. While the weather is clearly beyond our control, we want to offer our sincere apologies to all those affected who are now safely back, having sailed home in calmer seas."

Saga Cruises did not immediately respond to Entrepreneur 's request for comment.

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Massive waves bombard Drake Passage cruise ships in viral videos. What to know about Antarctica cruises

Waves in drake passage can reach up to 40 feet.

Large waves buffet Antarctica cruise ship in Drake Passage

One American woman was killed and four others injured after a rogue wave hit the cruise ship. (Ann Clark Mah)

Several harrowing videos of heavy waves battering cruise ships in the Drake Passage as passengers look on have gone viral in recent months, serving as a reminder that the high-priced cruises to Antarctica, while breathtaking, take passengers through arguably the most treacherous waters in the world.

In early December, a TikTok vlogger who goes by "Natasha" shared a video of massive waves battering her cruise ship as it sailed through the Drake Passage between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans at the southern tip of South America. The video was viewed more than 12 million times, the New York Post reported .

"Waves are crazy in Drake Passage," another user named "Edmundo" posted on TikTok in December to show a cruise ship dealing with rough seas: "Reaches Deck 6 of our ship."

"It’s very common," travel expert Lee Abbamonte, who has traveled to all 193 United Nation member states along with the North and South Pole, told Fox News Digital about the rough seas in the Drake Passage.

VIKING POLARIS PASSENGERS SPEAK OUT AFTER 'ROGUE WAVE' STRIKES ANTARCTIC CRUISE SHIP, KILLING AMERICAN WOMAN

The bow of the icebreaker Kapitan Khlebnikov pushes through a wave in rough seas while crossing the Drake Passage. (David Tipling/Universal Images Group via Getty Images/File)

"The Antarctica season is very short, only a few months, and the Drake is notorious for its waves being unpredictable," Abbamonte said. "Some get lucky and get Drake Lake, others will likely be laying horizontal for a few days. It’s Antarctica, not the Caribbean."

In late November, a 62-year-old American passenger on a Viking cruise ship was killed when a rogue wave smashed through a window , sending broken glass flying. Four other passengers suffered non-life threatening injuries.

NYC-SIZED ICE SHELF COLLAPSES IN EAST ANTARCTICA

Waves are seen crashing alongside the Viking Polaris cruise ship during its recent voyage in the Drake Passage. (Ann Clark Mah/File)

The Viking Polaris ship, which was traveling near Argentinian city of Ushuaia on an Antarctic cruise, suffered "limited damage" and returned to Buenos Aires after canceling the voyage.

The massive currents colliding at the 620-mile-wide waterway results in layers of cold seawater from the south mixing with warmer seawater from the north, which causes powerful eddies that are often exacerbated by strong winds from storms, according to travel blog Oceanwide Expeditions.

Blogger Candice Gaukel Andrews wrote about a trip across the passage in 2015, writing that she woke up one night to waves hitting the ship "as if I were riding a bucking horse in a rodeo."

"Not only were we bouncing up and down on huge swells, but we were also twisting side to side," Andrews wrote. "I clung to the side of my bed with white knuckles to keep from falling out. My roommate finally gave up trying to stay put, shoved her mattress onto the floor and flopped on top of it. Everything that wasn’t bolted down—books, bottles, papers, pens—went flying through the room, much as if we were experiencing zero gravity that had somehow speeded up."

"Outside the porthole, though, it looked more like a washing machine."

THIRD AUSTRALIAN CRUISE IN WEEKS TURNS INTO 'NIGHTMARE' AFTER FUNGUS OUTBREAK PREVENTS ENTRY INTO NEW ZEALAND

Waves break on the Greenpeace ship Arctic Sunrise in the Drake Passage as it navigates toward the Antarctic Peninsula on Feb. 10, 2018. (Reuters/Alexandre Meneghini/File)

The average water flow of the main current that flows through the passage, the west-to-east Antarctic Circumpolar Current, stretches more than 12,400 miles and is estimated to carry 135 million cubic meters of water, about 600 times the Amazon River’s volume.

The choppy waters of the Drake Passage, named after English explorer Sir Francis Drake, who never actually traveled through the waterway but sailed close to the location in 1578, are believed to have caused more than 800 shipwrecks .

Generally, it is believed that the best month to visit Antarctica is in January when the Drake Passage seas are typically calmer, but the waterway remains unpredictable regardless of the month.

ANTARCTICA’S THWAITES 'DOOMSDAY GLACIER' SCIENTIFIC STUDY BLOCKED BY GIANT ICEBERG

Despite the sometimes dangerous waters and waves that can reach up to 40 feet, Abbamonte says passengers are willing to shell out "upwards of $20-$30K" in some case for the chance to visit the remote continent via luxury cruise.

"You can go out in zodiacs and see the ice up close," Abbamonte said. "Some people actually jump into the water, and you generally will see a lot of penguins in their own habitat."

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Abbamonte said that the cruises to Antarctica are "very safe as far as expedition cruises go" despite the viral videos showing rough seas, and that travelers who would rather avoid the Drake Passage can fly to Antarctica, but those trips can be more expensive.

Andrew Mark Miller is a reporter at Fox News. Find him on Twitter @andymarkmiller and email tips to [email protected].

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Watch: Passengers Left 'Screaming and Crying' After Cruise Ship Encounters 30-Foot Waves

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Bad weather can easily ruin an otherwise lovely vacation, but severe  weather can quickly turn what was meant to be a relaxing trip you've been dreaming about into a complete nightmare. And if that weather takes place while you're on a cruise ship, you could really be in for anything from a few unpleasant hours of being tossed around and feeling seasick, or to the scenario that some vacationers found themselves in recently that led to some serious implications. 

Passengers on a cruise ship in the UK faced a worst case weather scenario when their ship was battered around the ocean by 30 foot waves, and after seeing the footage, I can only imagine how terrifying this must have been to experience while on board.

The footage was shared by the Daily Mail ' s official TikTok account on Tuesday, November 7, showing what the waves looked like from someone who was on the ship at the time. While many modern cruise ships are able to withstand pretty bad weather and intense waves , in this case, the situation became far too serious for the cruise to continue its journey. 

According to CNN, the Saga Cruises ship Spirit of Discovery was traveling back from a trip to the Canary Islands on a two-week cruise out of Portsmouth in the United Kingdom when it ran into the waves while in the Bay of Biscay . After the captain found out that the Spanish ports he'd hoped to dock in would be closed because of the bad weather, he decided to turn back early to avoid it, but it was already too late. 

The waves were so powerful that the ship's propulsion safety system activated, jerking the ship to a stop in the ocean. One passenger said that the ship stayed in place for about 15 hours, and in the midst of all of this, 100 of the cruise's 1,000 passengers suffered injuries, including some who required medical treatment. 

At that point, the passengers were only nine days into their cruise, but it came to an end after the incident. 

"We have apologized to all our guests who experienced such difficult weather conditions; we know that this was a very distressing experience for them," Saga Cruises CEO Nigel Banks said in a statement. 

This must have been so scary — and such an awful end to the passengers' vacation. I wouldn't blame them if they never wanted to get on a cruise ship again after that!  

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Which Side of a Cruise Ship is Best for Your View and Comfort on the Ocean Waves

Have you ever wondered which side of the ship offers the best views during a cruise? Picture this: you’re on the deck, eagerly anticipating breathtaking sights of the ocean, but you’re unsure if you’ve chosen the optimal side for the ultimate experience.

Navigating the waters of this decision can be tricky, but fear not! In this article, you’ll discover the insider tips on selecting the ideal side of the ship for your cruise adventure. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to ensure you make the most of your journey with panoramic vistas at every turn.

Key Takeaways

• Choose the port side for morning sunrise views and port sightings, especially if the ship is traveling eastward.
• Opt for the starboard side to enjoy stunning sunsets and scenic cruising if the ship is heading westward.
• Consider factors like direction of travel, time of day preferences, and planned excursions when selecting the best side of the ship for your cruise experience.
• Balcony cabins offer private outdoor space and ocean views, while inside cabins are more budget-friendly.
• Deck position matters; higher decks provide better views and quicker access to amenities, while lower decks offer stability and proximity to dining areas.
• Tailor your cabin choice to the specific characteristics of destinations; choose starboard for Alaskan views, port side for Caribbean sunsets, and starboard for European landscapes.

Understanding Cruise Ship Layout

The port side: what you need to know.

When it comes to cruise ships, the port side refers to the left side of the vessel when facing forward. A handy way to remember this is that both the terms “port” and “left” have four letters each. Choosing a cabin on the port side can have its advantages. One key benefit is that you might get stunning views of the ports when the ship docks at various destinations. Moreover, if you’re a morning person, cabins on the port side may offer beautiful sunrise views as the ship travels eastward. Keep in mind that as the ship docks or sails close to land, the views may vary, so it’s essential to research the itinerary to make an informed decision.

The Starboard Side: Features and Considerations

On the flip side, the starboard side of a cruise ship is the right side when facing forward. Similar to the port side, remembering this is easy since “starboard” and “right” both have more letters than their counterparts. Cabins on the starboard side can provide exceptional sunset views as the ship typically heads westward during its journey. Additionally, during scenic cruising, such as through fiords or along picturesque coastlines, the starboard side may offer prime viewpoints of the stunning landscapes. Consider choosing a cabin on this side if you enjoy sunsets or panoramic vistas while at sea.

Remember that the best side of the ship for your cruise experience ultimately depends on factors like the ship’s itinerary, your preferences for sunrise or sunset views, and the specific ports of call. Researching the destinations and understanding the layout of the cruise ship can help you make an informed decision to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable cruise vacation.

Factors That Influence the Best Side of the Ship for Cruising

When deciding which side of the ship to choose for your cruise experience, several factors come into play. Here’s a breakdown of what influences the best side of the ship for cruising:

Direction of Travel and Views

As you embark on your cruise adventure, the direction of travel plays a vital role in determining the optimal side of the ship for you.

If your cruise itinerary includes traveling eastward

The port side , situated on the ship’s left, grants you spectacular sunrises and views of ports during docking. Imagine starting your day with the sun’s first light painting the sky in brilliant hues, creating picture-perfect moments against the backdrop of the ocean.

When journeying westward

Opting for the starboard side , located on the ship’s right, rewards you with breathtaking sunsets. Picture yourself unwinding on your balcony, witnessing the sun dip below the horizon, casting vibrant colors across the sky—a mesmerizing sight to end your day on a high note.

Time of Day and Sun Exposure

Consider the time of day you’re most likely to spend on your balcony or enjoy panoramic views from the ship.

Morning enthusiasts

If you relish starting your day with a cup of coffee while soaking in the sunrise, choosing the port side might align perfectly with your preference. The gentle morning light and serene ambiance can set the tone for a tranquil day at sea.

Sunset admirers

For those who savor the allure of sunset vistas and the golden hour’s warm glow, the starboard side offers an ideal vantage point. Capturing the last rays of sunlight as the sky transforms into a canvas of vivid colors can be a serene and captivating experience.

Docking Considerations and Port Excursions

When considering the ship’s docking arrangements and planned port excursions, your choice of side can enhance your cruise adventures.

Port lovers

If you enjoy observing the bustling activities of ports during docking, the port side affords you a front-row seat to this lively spectacle. Experience the excitement of port arrivals and departures right from your cabin or stroll to the ship’s deck for an up-close view.

Expedition explorers

Should you plan on engaging in port excursions or scenic cruising excursions, aligning your side choice with the best views during these activities can elevate your exploration experience. Whether it’s coastal landscapes, picturesque islands, or wildlife sightings, the right side can provide optimal views during these memorable moments.

By considering these factors—direction of travel, time of day preferences, and docking and excursion plans—you can make an informed decision on the best side of the ship for your upcoming cruise, ensuring a journey tailored to your preferences and creating unforgettable moments at sea.

Analyzing Cabin Options for Optimal Experience

When deciding on the best side of the ship for your cruise, choosing between a balcony cabin and an inside cabin can significantly impact your experience.

Balcony vs. Inside Cabins

If you prefer to have your private outdoor space with stunning ocean views, a balcony cabin is ideal for you. Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying breakfast while watching the sunrise; this experience is exclusive to balcony cabins. However, if you’re more budget-conscious and prioritize spending time exploring the ship’s amenities and ports of call, an inside cabin might be the more practical choice for you. Inside cabins are typically more cost-effective and provide a cozy retreat for relaxation after a day full of activities.

Higher Deck vs. Lower Deck Positions

The deck position of your cabin can also affect your cruise experience. Cabins located on higher decks often offer panoramic views, quicker access to pool areas and entertainment venues, and reduced noise from the engine. On the other hand, cabins on lower decks are closer to the main dining areas, embarkation points for shore excursions, and tend to have less motion in rough seas. Consider your preferences for convenience, noise level, and stability when choosing between higher and lower deck positions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruise.

Cruise Destinations and Their Impact on Cabin Choice

When choosing the best side of the ship for your cruise, consider the unique characteristics of each destination and how they can enhance your onboard experience. Different cruise destinations offer varying views and experiences based on their geographical features and cultural attractions.

Alaskan Cruises and Scenic Views

For Alaskan cruises, the scenery is a focal point of the journey. Opting for a cabin on the starboard side can provide breathtaking views of the Alaskan coastline, glaciers, and wildlife. As the ship cruises along, you’ll have the opportunity to witness majestic snow-capped mountains, calving glaciers, and possibly even spot whales breaching in the distance. Choosing a cabin on the starboard side ensures you won’t miss out on these awe-inspiring natural spectacles.

Caribbean Cruises: Sunsets and Breezes

In the Caribbean, sunsets and tropical breezes are part of the allure. To make the most of your Caribbean cruise experience, consider booking a cabin on the port side. This choice allows you to enjoy stunning sunsets over the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. Additionally, the port side often offers refreshing ocean breezes as the ship sails from one tropical paradise to another. Imagine relaxing on your balcony, feeling the gentle sea breeze, and watching the sun dip below the horizon in a blaze of color.

Mediterranean and European Cruises: Historical Landscapes

Mediterranean and European cruises present a tapestry of historical landscapes and vibrant cultures. When selecting a cabin for these cruises, look for options on the starboard side to capture views of iconic coastal cities, ancient ruins, and picturesque ports. Whether you’re sailing past the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera or admiring the ancient architecture of Rome, a starboard cabin offers a front-row seat to the rich history and scenic beauty of these regions.

By considering the specific characteristics of each cruise destination and aligning your cabin choice with the unique features of the itinerary, you can ensure a memorable and immersive cruising experience tailored to your preferences. Choose wisely and get ready to embark on a journey filled with captivating views, cultural discoveries, and unforgettable moments at sea.

Personal Preferences and Special Needs

Motion sickness considerations.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, choosing the right side of the ship can make a significant difference in your cruise experience. While there’s no foolproof way to avoid seasickness completely, opting for a cabin on the lower decks and towards the center of the ship can help minimize the rocking sensation. These central locations experience less movement than cabins near the bow or stern. To further reduce the risk of seasickness, consider booking a cabin with a balcony to get fresh air and natural light, making your voyage more comfortable.

Privacy and Noise Levels

When it comes to privacy and noise levels, your cabin location plays a crucial role in ensuring a peaceful stay onboard. Cabins situated towards the aft of the ship are generally quieter as they are away from high-traffic areas such as elevators and staircases. If you value tranquility and minimal disturbance, opt for a cabin away from the ship’s communal spaces, like bars and entertainment venues. Additionally, selecting a cabin in the middle of the corridor rather than near its entrance or exit can offer more privacy and reduce the foot traffic passing your door. By considering these factors, you can enhance your onboard relaxation and enjoyment during the cruise.

Choosing the best side of a cruise ship can significantly impact your overall experience onboard. By considering factors like views, cabin type, and location, you can tailor your stay to match your preferences. Opt for a balcony cabin for fresh air and natural light, and select a quieter spot towards the aft to avoid high-traffic areas. Remember to prioritize your comfort and needs when making your cabin selection to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable cruise. Happy sailing!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which side of the cruise ship should i choose for the best views.

For sunrise views, choose the starboard side. For sunset views, go for the port side.

What are the differences between balcony and inside cabins?

Balcony cabins offer outdoor space and natural light. Inside cabins are more budget-friendly but lack views and fresh air.

How can I minimize motion sickness on a cruise?

Choose cabins on lower decks and towards the center of the ship to reduce the feeling of motion.

What cabin location offers more privacy and less noise?

Cabins towards the aft are quieter, away from high-traffic areas. Avoid cabins near communal spaces for added tranquility.

Hi, I'm Richard, a passionate traveler and cruise enthusiast. With over a decade of experience exploring the world's oceans, I've developed a deep love for all things related to cruising. Whether it's luxury liners or intimate river cruises, I enjoy sharing my insights and tips to help others plan their perfect getaway. When I'm not sailing the seas, you can find me writing about my adventures or planning my next voyage

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