Holidaymakers expecting to set sail from the Middle East this month are facing sudden changes after several cruise lines cancelled upcoming voyages and kept ships docked in regional ports.
Source: TravelPulse
According to travelnews.co.za, the decision affects multiple departures from Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, leaving thousands of passengers waiting for updates as operators prioritise safety and travel logistics.
While cruise holidays are usually associated with smooth sailing and sunset decks, the past week has been anything but predictable.
MSC Euribia stays docked in Dubai
One of the most significant changes involves MSC Cruises, which confirmed that its ship MSC Euribia will remain docked in Dubai until further notice.
The company cancelled three scheduled departures from the city. Sailings planned for 7 March, 8 March and 11 March will no longer take place.
According to MSC Cruises, the decision was made after considering advice from regional and international security authorities.
Passenger safety remains the top priority, the cruise line explained in a public notice. While the ship remains in port, the company is now focusing on helping guests return home.
MSC is currently working with airline partners, including Emirates and Etihad Airways, to arrange return flights. Charter flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Muscat are also being explored if necessary.
The cruise operator says it is coordinating with embassies and local authorities to ensure passengers can travel safely and smoothly.
Celestyal pauses its Desert Days itinerary
Another cruise operator adjusting plans is Celestyal Cruises, which has cancelled several sailings linked to its popular Desert Days route.
The Celestyal Journey cruise scheduled to depart Dubai on 2 March has been cancelled. The ship is now expected to remain in Doha port until 7 March, with the Desert Days itinerary temporarily paused.
Passengers already on board have been given two options. They may stay on the ship until 7 March, or disembark in Doha while waiting for the next updates.
If operating conditions improve, the cruise line plans to resume the itinerary.
Guests waiting to disembark in Dubai
Celestyal Cruises also confirmed the cancellation of another sailing involving the Celestyal Discovery.
That ship was scheduled to depart Abu Dhabi on 2 March, but the cruise did not go ahead. The vessel is currently docked in Dubai.
For the moment, passengers remain on board as the company awaits clearance from local authorities to begin disembarkation.
Once permission is granted, Celestyal says it will assist guests with transfers from the ship to Abu Dhabi Airport so they can continue their journeys home.
Refunds and cruise credits offered
Guests whose holidays were cancelled will be given options to either receive a full refund or accept future cruise credit for another sailing.
Travel disruptions like this are rare but not unheard of in the cruise industry, especially in regions where security assessments can change quickly.
For travellers, it is a reminder that even the most carefully planned voyage can shift course unexpectedly.
Still, cruise operators say they remain hopeful that normal schedules will resume once conditions stabilise.
Source: travelnews.co.za
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook
ALSO READ:
Cape Town travellers face more chaos as Middle East flights remain grounded
