Coastal Storm Rocks Carnival Cruise Ship Leaving Passengers Terrified
Introduction
Passengers aboard the Carnival Sunshine cruise ship were left frightened as a powerful storm off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, battered the vessel over the Memorial Day weekend. With broken glass, water pouring into rooms and hallways, and a lack of communication from crew members, some passengers reported feeling sick and terrified by the rough weather. Videos shared on social media showed heavy damage along some of the decks of the ship, leaving passengers questioning why the ship was sailed into such extreme weather.
The Storm Hits the Carnival Sunshine
Passengers aboard the Carnival Sunshine described the storm as terrifying. Rough coastal storms hit the vessel as it returned from a weekend trip to the Bahamas. Large waves, heavy rain, and strong winds rocked the ship, leaving passengers feeling anxious and sick. One passenger reported that his cabin was flooded when a wave broke the window, allowing water to enter. Fellows passengers were said to be “white as ghosts” when the ship finally docked in Charleston.
The Aftermath of the Storm
Several passengers described the chaos that ensued onboard the Carnival Sunshine during and after the storm. They reported shattered glass, debris strewn about everywhere, and flood waters inundating several decks. Some crew cabins were temporarily taken out of service as the cruise line worked to clean up water damage. Guests were left uneasy, with some reporting that they didn’t receive communication or updates on the storm from the crew for over 12 hours.
Carnival’s Response to the Incident
Carnival Cruise Line addressed the weather disruption in a statement, describing the Carnival Sunshine’s delay and the impact the storm had on the rough seas. The cruise line appreciated the patience and understanding of all guests, apologizing for the delay in returning to port. Carnival Sunshine is now operating on its next five-day Bahamas sailing, despite damage incurred during the storm.
Carnival Sunshine Cruise Ship Battered by Massive Storm Waves Flooding Several Decks as Ocean Liner Safely Returns 2 Homeport of Charleston South Carolina
🛳️ Passengers survived a nightmarish experience Friday as Crew Members donned Lifejackets in 80 mph Atlantic Storm Winds pic.twitter.com/qH47AAHWKD
— DaKey2Eternity (@Key2Eternity) May 29, 2023
Passengers’ Reaction to the Storm
Passengers have raised questions on the decision to allow the ship to sail into such extreme weather conditions, with some suggesting that Carnival should have waited a day for the storm to subside before setting sail. Others noted a lack of communication from the crew during and after the storm, leaving them feeling anxious, terrified, and ill-prepared for what lay ahead. Some passengers have even taken to social media to demand answers and push for changes in the way cruise lines handle storms and weather disruptions.
Conclusion
The Carnival Sunshine incident highlights the dangers that can arise when ships are caught in bad weather, leaving passengers feeling scared, ill-prepared, and vulnerable. Despite criticism from passengers, Carnival Cruise Line has maintained that the weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival, leading to damage and extended delays, safe sailing, and the security of its passengers and staff. Nevertheless, the incident calls into question the role of cruise lines in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their passengers irrespective of the circumstances.