Carnival Sunshine Update: As many of you may be aware, Carnival Sunshine was effected by a storm on its last sailing, causing it to return late to Charleston yesterday. The high seas were associated with a non-tropical low mixed with a storm front that had been sitting on Florida all week that the National Hurricane Center had been keeping tabs on, noting a small chance it could form into a tropical or subtropical depression. As the system moved up toward the Carolina coast, gale and high seas warnings were issued from Florida up to Virginia, and Carnival Sunshine endured some of those effects as it waited to get into port. Weather reports showed winds in the area of up to 75 mph. At no time we’re guests in danger because of this weather event. Yes, some areas of the ship did have minor flooding, but as far as we can tell by reports, they were all in crew areas of the ship. The effects on guests were the inconvenience of much higher then normal seas, things not being able to be places on flat tables (or they would fall off), and sea sickness. Reports of bursted sewage pipes, overflowing bathrooms and such, as of this time, seem to be misreported and unverified by my contacts at Carnival. If these reports become verified, I will bring you updates. As someone that has been on a ship, traveling through major hurricanes, I can attest that it can be a daunting experience for newer cruisers, but, Carnival always keeps the safety of their guests in crew in their first priority. I’m an official statement, Carnival told us: “Carnival Sunshine’s return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. The weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival on Sunday and as a result, the next voyage’s embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests. Carnival Sunshine is now sailing on its next cruise.” When you book a cruise, always keep in mind that you are on a moving vessel and at the mercy of Mother Nature and her storms at sea. This always means that you could be effected by adverse conditions during your voyage. It can, and does happen. We will bring you an update, photos and video on our official YouTube Video and here in the group as it becomes available.
