Notice to Passengers: Hurricane Matthew

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has become aware that passenger vessel operators (PVOs), commonly known as cruise lines, with scheduled calls at U.S. East Coast ports have announced itinerary changes and cancellations resulting from the predicted course of Hurricane Matthew.

Cruise passengers should stay in close contact with their PVOs, airlines, and travel agents for the most up-to-date information about their travel and their cruise.

Passengers should always carefully read their ticket contract, which states the cruise line’s obligations with respect to cancelled cruises and changes in itinerary due to weather.
If cruise passengers have purchased travel insurance, they should consult their policy to determine whether to file a claim.

The FMC has limited authority over cruise lines and administers the legal requirements that PVOs maintain financial responsibility for the protection of passengers for non-performance of a cruise or death or injury while on a cruise. (46 U.S.C. §§ 44102 and 44103; 46 CFR Part 540). If you wish to request assistance regarding a dispute with a cruise line, contact the Federal Maritime Commission’s Office of Consumer Affairs & Dispute Resolution Services at 202-523-5807, or 1-866-448-9586, or at complaints@fmc.gov.

Helpful Links 
National Hurricane Center: http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
Carnival: https://help.carnival.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4091/session/L3RpbWUvMTQ3NTc1NzQ4MC9zaWQveDQ4SDZxKm0%3D
Disney Cruises: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/advisory/
NCL: https://www.ncl.com/#/weather-alert-52662
Royal Caribbean: http://www.royalcaribbean.com/beforeyouboard/itineraryUpdates.do

The Federal Maritime Commission is responsible for regulating the Nation’s international ocean transportation for the benefit of exporters, importers, and the American consumer. The Commission’s mission is to foster a fair, efficient, and reliable international ocean transportation system while protecting the public from unfair and deceptive practices.