Stormy Seas Challenge Cruise Ships: Windy.com Aids in Prediction
Stormy seas and harsh weather are a constant challenge for cruise ships plying the North Sea, Bay of Biscay, and Atlantic routes. Storm Amy recently caused chaos across Northern Europe, highlighting the need for robust preparation and prediction tools. Windy.com is one such resource, aiding in forecasting rough seas and motion sickness prevention.
Last year, Storm Ingunn in 2024 led to significant disruptions. Havila Kystruten had to reroute Havila Polaris, skipping five ports and sheltering in Bodø to ride out the storm. In such severe cases, cruise ships may skip ports, delay arrivals, or stay put until conditions improve. Passengers are kept informed about significant weather changes, with activities adjusted or moved indoors as necessary.
Modern cruise ships use advanced radar and forecasting systems to track pressure systems and avoid dangerous weather. Local maritime pilots also assist in decision-making, ensuring ships stay within safe limits. However, in rare cases, severe weather can force a complete reroute of a cruise itinerary. In spring 2024, Havila Kystruten had to change plans to protect Havila Polaris from Storm Ingunn, leading to the ship sheltering in Namsos, Norway.
To mitigate motion sickness during rough seas, choosing a midship cabin on a lower deck can help. Despite these precautions, storms like Ingunn can cause heavy damage and force reroutes. Carnival cruise lines and passengers must stay prepared and adaptable to ensure safety and comfort at sea.
