My first cruise experience was on the Sun Princess in October 2024. Little did I know that it would coincide with Hurricane Milton. Classic me, choosing the peak storm season for my inaugural sailing adventure.
Honestly, getting to the ship was an adventure in itself. My flight from San Francisco to Fort Lauderdale almost got rerouted to Miami due to the storm. A 45-minute Uber ride might not sound like a big deal, but when you’re embarking on your first cruise, every hiccup feels magnified.
Fortunately, my flight did land at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport as planned. However, the cruise itself hit a snag. The Sun Princess didn’t depart on schedule; we set sail a day late because the port was closed to incoming ships.
For me, the delay meant an unexpected bonus day in Florida. But for passengers still on board from the previous voyage, an “extra day at sea” meant missed flights, extra missed work days, and a scramble to rearrange plans upon returning to shore.
This experience taught me that cruising during hurricane season is a gamble, not a dealbreaker. Here are some things to consider before booking a cruise during this time of year.
When is hurricane season?
The Atlantic hurricane season typically runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, peaking in September and October. The Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico are most affected, although storms can occur in other months as well.
Cruises during these months tend to be more affordable, making them a popular choice. However, it’s important to be prepared, especially for the 2025 season, which NOAA predicts to have a 50% chance of being above-normal.
Acting NOAA Administrator Laura Grimm emphasized the need to prepare in advance for the upcoming hurricane season.
What really happens during a storm?
If a storm is in the forecast while you’re cruising, chances are you won’t encounter it directly. Cruise lines take precautions to avoid sailing into hurricanes, so those dramatic videos of ships rocking in storms are rare occurrences, not the norm.
Rerouting is a common practice during hurricanes. It might mean a change in itinerary, skipping ports, or visiting alternative destinations. Captains monitor weather conditions closely and make necessary adjustments to ensure passenger safety.
Modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers and navigation systems to handle rough seas. While rough waters might impact outdoor activities like the pool deck, onboard entertainment and amenities ensure a comfortable experience for passengers.