The short answer is, yes, cruise lines can change your itinerary if needed.

Before you get too upset – let’s think logically about this.

If a destination on your itinerary becomes dangerous to visit due to weather, crime, natural disaster or other threat, the captain will be in communication with the cruise line and your itinerary may be amended. 

It happens. These decisions are made for your safety and the safety of fellow passengers.

Usually when this happens, if possible, another port nearby may be selected however in rare occasions the entire itinerary may need to be changed.

During Hurricane Irma for example, many cruises changed their entire itinerary for the safety of the ship and passengers and a few ships had to stay out at sea past their return date, due to the danger of coming back to the port.  

As we all know, not only did COVID-19 restrictions change itineraries, it shut down most of the world. 

In more recent days, a Royal Caribbean Alaska voyage welcomed passengers onboard in April of 2024. The ship sat in the harbor for two days before having to cancel the entire trip due to mechanical issues that could not be resolved.

Although cruise lines work hard to make sure that you  have a great vacation, there are times when situations are out of their control. 

As the wise saying goes, the best laid plans of mice and men often go awry. Cruise lines work very hard to give their passengers the very best experience. Their reputation rides on their ability to provide memories of a lifetime for their guests. 

The wise know that you need to pack your patience when traveling. They also know that the unexpected can happen and prepare by getting travelers insurance.