Carnival Cruise Line has confirmed Carnival Spirit and its 2,500 passengers returned to Sydney this morning following the reopening of the port.
The ship was scheduled to return to Sydney early yesterday morning but was instead told to sail off Sydney’s coast because strong winds and heavy rain had forced the port to close for the day.
Port closure meant the Harbour Pilot was unable to board the ship before it entered Sydney Harbour – this is a requirement for all cruise ships sailing into the city.
Although rain continues to pour over Sydney this morning, Carnival said the port has reopened, allowing the Harbour Pilot to board and direct the ship to Circular Quay.
@7NewsSydney Finally!! #CarnivalSpirit #Carnivalcruise comes in #sydneyHeads #SydneyStorm #manly #northhead pic.twitter.com/YQ28TL6wtl
— Trish Murray (@TrishMurrayAust) April 21, 2015
The ship returned at around 10.00am this morning.
Carnival Cruise Line’s Vice President Australia Jennifer Vandekreeke thanked passengers for their patience over the last day.
“While this delay was unavoidable given the Harbour’s closure, we greatly appreciate the good cheer and understanding our guests have shown.”
Jennifer Vandekreeke, Carnival Cruise Line Vice President Australia
Crew onboard ensured guests were entertained by offering a full program of onboard activities and entertainment.
Some passengers shared their excitement of being onboard for another night on social media.
Stuck at sea due to bad weather another night on board!
Posted by Grant Sapwell on Monday, April 20, 2015
Meanwhile, Carnival said it is working on revising its seven-night itinerary visiting Noumea and Isle of Pines, which was scheduled to depart last night.
The cruise will embark today at 7.00pm.
The cruise line is offering guests booked on this cruise a one-day refund and $50 onboard credit.
Guests booked on the seven-night itinerary also have the option to cancel for a full refund.
“The cruise line appreciates the impact of the delay on its guests’ holidays plans and has thanked guests for their understanding.”
Carnival Cruise Line
Meanwhile, Sydney Airport has advised travellers on Twitter that is has additional resources in place to minimise delays.
Yesterday, some domestic flights were operating over 45 minutes behind schedule.
The airport continues to advise travellers to check with airlines for the latest flight information.
