Weather Causes Royal Caribbean Embarkation Port Switch

Prepare for a slight change in plans if you’re sailing on the Explorer of the Seas this weekend. Due to rough weather conditions, Royal Caribbean has made the decision to switch the embarkation port for the ship’s September 24 departure. Originally set to depart from Ravenna, Italy, the ship will now be departing from Trieste, Italy. Although this change may seem inconvenient, Royal Caribbean will provide transfers from the original check-in location in Venice. So, make sure you arrive in Venice on time to be checked in by 5 p.m. and then enjoy the two-hour transfer to Trieste. While this may be an unexpected adjustment, the safety and comfort of guests is the cruise line’s top priority.

Embarkation Port Change for Explorer of the Seas

Notification of Embarkation Port Change

Dear valued guests,

We wanted to inform you of an important change regarding the embarkation port for your upcoming cruise on Explorer of the Seas. Due to rough weather conditions, it is unsafe to use the original port of Ravenna, Italy. However, we have made alternative arrangements to ensure your safety and comfort.

New Departure Port: Trieste, Italy

Instead of departing from Ravenna, Explorer of the Seas will now be departing from Trieste, Italy. Trieste is located in Italy’s extreme northwestern corner, approximately 275 kilometers (171 miles) away from the original port. This change in departure port will not affect your itinerary or the destinations you will visit during your cruise.

Revised Embarkation Plans

To facilitate a smooth embarkation process, we have made some revised plans for check-in and transfers.

Check-in at the Venezia Terminal Passeggeri in Venice

In order to check-in, you will now need to proceed to the Venezia Terminal Passeggeri in Venice, Italy. Check-in will begin at 9:30 a.m. and we kindly ask that you arrive no later than 4:30 p.m. to ensure ample time for the check-in process.

Complimentary Transfers from Venice to Trieste

We understand that this change may cause some inconvenience, but we are committed to ensuring your comfort and safety. Royal Caribbean will provide complimentary transfers from Venice to Trieste for all guests. The transfer will take approximately two hours, depending on local traffic conditions. Please note that the last transfer will depart from Venice at 5:15 p.m.

You can reach the Venezia Terminal Passeggeri either by water or land shuttle from the Venice airport.

Itinerary Changes for Explorer of the Seas

Scheduled Ports of Call

Despite the port change, there are no further itinerary changes confirmed for Explorer of the Seas. The ship will still visit the scheduled ports of Split, Athens, Santorini, and Dubrovnik during your cruise.

Potential Adjustments Due to Weather

However, please be aware that there may be adjustments to the overall itinerary if weather conditions require it. We always prioritize the safety and well-being of our guests and crew, and we will make any necessary changes to ensure a smooth sailing experience.

Explorer of the Seas Ship Details

Ship Statistics

Explorer of the Seas is a 138,194-gross ton, Voyager class ship. It can welcome 3,114 guests aboard at double occupancy, or as many as 3,840 travelers when fully booked with all berths filled.

Current and Future Itineraries

Currently, Explorer of the Seas is based from Ravenna, offering cruises to destinations in Greece, Montenegro, Italy, and Croatia. In late October, the ship will reposition to Rome and then make a transatlantic crossing to bring the ship to Miami for Caribbean itineraries through the winter. In April 2024, the ship will return to Italy for another Mediterranean season.

Reasons for Port Change

Weather Forecast for Ravenna

The decision to change the embarkation port was based on the weather forecast for Ravenna on September 24. High winds from the north, along with a chance of rain, made it unsafe to use the original port. While these winds may not seem significantly high, factors such as wind direction, navigation challenges near the Port of Ravenna, and the potential for even higher wind gusts made the change necessary.

Navigation Challenges and Safety Concerns

Apart from the weather forecast, we also considered navigation challenges near the Port of Ravenna. These challenges, combined with safety concerns for both our guests and crew, led us to make the decision to change the embarkation port.

Potential Impact from Localized Flooding

Another factor that influenced the port change was the potential for localized flooding near Ravenna. In the past, when there have been heavy rains and flooding in the area, it has caused traffic complications and difficulties in reaching the cruise terminal. To ensure a smooth embarkation process for all guests, we made the decision to change the port to Trieste.

Discussion on Cruise Boards

We understand that this sudden change may raise questions and concerns. We encourage you to join the discussion on our cruise boards where you can connect with fellow guests and share your thoughts. Our dedicated team is also available to address any concerns you may have.

Sign Up for Cruise Updates

To stay up-to-date with any further changes or updates regarding your cruise, we recommend signing up for our cruise updates. By doing so, you will receive the latest information directly to your inbox, ensuring you have all the necessary details for a seamless and enjoyable vacation.

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Contact Information

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our dedicated team is here to provide you with the support you need for a memorable cruise vacation.

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We look forward to welcoming you aboard Explorer of the Seas for an incredible cruise experience!

Sincerely,

[Your Name] Director of Guest Services

Source: https://www.cruisehive.com/weather-causes-royal-caribbean-embarkation-port-switch/111308