Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH), the parent company of NCL, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises, plans to cancel all calls to Israel in 2024.
- This decision follows the earlier cancellation or redirection of remaining 2023 calls to Israel due to regional conflict.
- Operational impacts were noted in a recent trading update, which included effects from events like the Maui wildfires and the conflict in Israel.
- NCLH continues to monitor global events closely, adjusting future sailings as required.
- Prior to the conflict, Middle East visits constituted approximately 7% of the company’s capacity in Q4 2023 and 4% in 2024.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has announced its decision to cancel all calls to Israel scheduled for 2024. This move comes amidst ongoing conflict in the region, which has raised concerns about the safety and stability required for such voyages. Before this decision, NCLH had already cancelled or redirected all remaining 2023 Israel calls.
In a recent trading update, NCLH disclosed the operational impacts it experienced from various global events, notably the wildfires in Maui and the escalating conflict in Israel. These events prompted NCLH to reassess their strategic planning, highlighting the unpredictable nature of global cruise operations.
The company has indicated its commitment to closely monitoring and evaluating future sailings, ready to make necessary adjustments. Such vigilance is deemed crucial in ensuring the safety and satisfaction of passengers, as well as maintaining operational integrity.
Prior to the outbreak of conflict, the Middle East represented a significant part of NCLH’s itinerary, with approximately 7% of its fleet’s capacity scheduled to visit the region in the fourth quarter of 2023 and 4% across the full year of 2024. This underscores the substantial impact that the cancellation will have on their route planning.
NCLH’s decision reflects a strategic response to global uncertainties, prioritising safety and adaptability.
