Carnival Cruise Line has issued an important alert to guests booked on the upcoming Bermuda sailing aboard Carnival Venezia. With Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda striking the mid-Atlantic, the cruise line warns that the voyage may be diverted north to Canada.
Bermuda Voyage in Jeopardy
The Carnival Venezia, homeported in New York City, is scheduled to depart on October 1, 2025, for a 5-night itinerary to Bermuda. The highlight of the voyage was an extended overnight stay at Kings Wharf, from 9 a.m. on Friday, October 3 until 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 4.
However, due to the rare double hurricane threat, Carnival is urging guests to prepare for a potential reroute to Canadian ports, instead of Bermuda’s pink-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
In an email sent to passengers on Tuesday, the cruise line explained:
“Our Fleet Operations Center is actively monitoring Hurricanes Humberto and Imelda in the mid-Atlantic. Although our visit is set for the coming weekend and the storms would likely have passed the island by then, they are expected to generate large waves… conditions that could make our voyage from New York to the island a rough and uncomfortable journey.”
Why Hurricanes Are a Major Risk for Bermuda Cruises
Unlike Caribbean itineraries that offer multiple backup ports, Bermuda cruises face unique challenges. New York-to-Bermuda sailings have only one destination, meaning that if docking at Bermuda becomes unsafe, the only alternative is to reroute the entire voyage.
Even if the seas calm after the storms pass, Bermuda’s piers and harbors require full inspections before reopening to visiting cruise ships. Any damage or safety concerns could delay the island from welcoming vessels for days.
This leaves Carnival Venezia with two clear options:
- Stick to Bermuda, if conditions allow.
- Shift northward to Canada, possibly visiting Halifax, Saint John, or Sydney, offering guests a very different cruise experience.
Guests Advised to Prepare for Both Destinations
Carnival’s email urged travelers to pack for both scenarios.
- If the ship sails to Bermuda, beachwear, sunscreen, and light clothing will be essential.
- If rerouted to Canada, passengers will need warm layers, rain ponchos, and comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring rocky coastal towns.
This unusual advice highlights the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming voyage, and Carnival has promised a final update the evening before embarkation.
Double Hurricane Trouble: Humberto and Imelda
The storm situation around Bermuda is particularly concerning because of the back-to-back nature of the systems.
- Hurricane Humberto: Maximum sustained winds of 80 mph; although it is not expected to make landfall, Bermuda will feel the storm’s powerful winds, rain, and rough seas.
- Hurricane Imelda: Recently strengthened to a Category 1 hurricane with winds up to 85 mph. Forecasts predict a direct impact on Bermuda by Wednesday evening.
This means Bermuda will be hit twice within 24 hours, a rare and dangerous scenario that could cause significant infrastructure damage and extended port closures.
Carnival’s Communication Praised
Despite the uncertainty, Carnival Cruise Line has been proactive and transparent with its guests. By warning passengers ahead of time, the line ensures that travelers are prepared for any outcome, whether it’s soaking in Bermuda’s beaches or exploring Canada’s rugged coastline.
Another update is expected shortly before Carnival Venezia departs New York, and guests are advised to monitor email and Carnival’s official channels for real-time updates.
Final Thoughts
Cruise enthusiasts know that hurricane season always carries risks, and flexibility is key to enjoying any sailing at this time of year. While many passengers booked the Carnival Venezia voyage dreaming of Bermuda’s tropical charm, the possibility of a Canadian adventure still promises a unique and memorable experience.
As the people of Bermuda brace for two hurricanes in quick succession, Cruise Hive’s thoughts are with the island residents — while Carnival Venezia guests wait to discover whether they’ll be heading south to paradise or north to adventure.
