Imagine the heartbreak of watching your cruise ship sail away without you, your belongings aboard, and no immediate way to catch up. This was the unfortunate reality for a couple in Nassau, Bahamas.
The Incident
In February 2019, during the sixth day of a week-long Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, a couple found themselves stranded. The ship had docked in Nassau, with an all-aboard time set for 3:30 PM. However, by 4:15 PM, the gangway was removed, and the ship prepared to depart. Just five minutes later, the couple arrived, shopping bags in hand, only to see their vessel moving away.
Viral Footage
Their desperate attempts to signal the crew were captured on video by passengers from a neighboring ship. The footage shows the couple waving frantically, their distress evident as the ship continues its departure.
Understanding Cruise Schedules
Cruise ships operate on strict schedules, coordinating with multiple ports and adhering to allocated docking times. Delays can incur significant costs and disrupt itineraries. Therefore, ships often cannot wait for late passengers, regardless of circumstances.
Lessons Learned
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of punctuality during cruises. Passengers are advised to return to the ship well before the designated departure time, especially when exploring ports independently. Booking excursions through the cruise line can also provide added security, as ships are more likely to wait for their own tours.
Final Thoughts
While vacations are a time for relaxation and adventure, they also require attentiveness to schedules and guidelines. Ensuring timely returns to the ship can prevent unfortunate situations like the one experienced by this couple.
