Cruise Lines Adjust Itineraries in Wake of Vanuatu Earthquake

Image: Royal Caribbean's Quantum Ultra-class ship, Odyssey of the Seas. (photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean International)
Image: Royal Caribbean's Quantum Ultra-class ship, Odyssey of the Seas. (photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean International)
Sarah Kuta
by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 10:45 AM ET, Thu December 19, 2024

Cruise lines are diverting their ships away from Vanuatu, the South Pacific island devastated by a 7.3 magnitude earthquake earlier this week.

At least 14 individuals were killed and 200 people were injured in the natural disaster on December 17, reports Reuters.

Emergency responders continue to search for survivors and victims amid the rubble.

Home to roughly 330,000 people, Vanuatu is a popular destination for South Pacific cruise itineraries. Port Vila, the nation’s capital, is the primary stop.

Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, P&O Australia and Cunard have all adjusted their current and upcoming itineraries to skip Port Vila, reports Travel Weekly.

Several ships will spend an extra day at sea or at Mystery Island, rather than visit the devastated area.


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