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Cruise Lines Mobilize Vessels to Assist Hurricane Victims in the Caribbean
In the wake of Hurricane Irma’s devastation in the Caribbean, cruise lines have redirected their efforts from leisure voyages to humanitarian assistance. As the storm swept through the region, causing significant destruction, aid is urgently needed for the affected islands. With numerous cruises canceled due to the storm’s impact, these vessels are now repurposed to deliver essential supplies and facilitate evacuations.
Norwegian Cruise Line announced the deployment of the 2,000-passenger Norwegian Sky to St. Thomas, equipped with provisions and accommodations for evacuees. Concurrently, Royal Caribbean revealed plans to dispatch two of its ships to the severely impacted islands of St. Maarten and St. Thomas, while preparing additional vessels to assist areas in Florida, such as the Keys and Tampa, depending on the post-storm assessment.
“Efforts are underway to mobilize ships and supplies for those in dire need,” stated a Royal Caribbean representative. “In coordination with both US and local authorities, we are sending ships to St. Thomas and St. Maarten and are on standby to assist Key West and other locations.”
St. Maarten, located east of Puerto Rico, has suffered catastrophic damage. The Dutch government reported that approximately 70% of structures on the island’s Dutch side, known as St. Martin, are either destroyed or severely damaged. Reports indicate at least four fatalities attributed to the storm, and there are disturbing accounts of violence among survivors competing for dwindling resources. The Royal Caribbean vessel Adventure of the Seas, which can carry 3,800 passengers, arrived in St. Maarten to provide additional supplies and assist with evacuations as necessary.
In the coming days, the Majesty of the Seas, with a capacity of 2,800 passengers, is scheduled to visit St. Thomas, where the sole hospital was rendered inoperable by Irma, and St. Maarten, delivering further aid and supplies. Meanwhile, the Empress of the Seas and Enchantment of the Seas are prepared with provisions to head to Key West or Tampa if the situation warrants, as indicated by the cruise line.
As of the latest reports, Hurricane Irma has been downgraded to a tropical storm, yet it continues to impact Florida with sustained winds reaching 70 mph. The full extent of the damage in Florida remains to be determined, but the immediate response from cruise lines reflects a commendable effort to provide relief and support in the face of disaster. It is encouraging to witness communities uniting to assist those affected, demonstrating resilience and compassion.
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In summary, cruise lines are actively redirecting their resources to aid those affected by Hurricane Irma in the Caribbean. Ships are delivering critical supplies and assisting with evacuations, while the situation in Florida continues to evolve.
