Cyclone Alfred Update: Royal Caribbean & Carnival Cruises Change Course, Avoiding Brisbane

Cyclone Alfred, the tropical storm heading for Brisbane, has been downgraded ahead of making landfall, but cruise ships and airlines aren’t taking any chances.

Over the last 24 hours, Australia’s Eastern coast has been battered by wind and heavy rainfall created by the storm system. Brisbane Airport has canceled all flights, suspending operations until further notice.

On the cruise side, both Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line have been impacted by the storm.

Royal’s Quantum of the Seas (pictured) and Carnival Luminosa were originally to call in Brisbane. Royal has canceled those plans, and has informed guests that they will spend additional time at sea.

“Along with our Chief Meteorologist, we have been closely monitoring the progression of Cyclone Alfred. Guests currently onboard will spend three extra days cruising the South Pacific before returning to Brisbane. Guests have been notified of the changes directly,” a representative told TMR in a statement.

Carnival has canceled its three-day cruise, originally planned to embark on March 6.

“Carnival Cruise Line is continuing to closely monitor Tropical Cyclone Alfred … Given its current track, the storm is expected to directly impact the Brisbane area in the coming days and the port is now closed,” a representative told TMR.

“Regrettably, we had no option but to cancel Carnival Luminosa’s 3-day cruise planned to depart on March 6. Guests will receive a full refund for their cruise fare and all pre-purchased items.”

Guests and crew already on Luminosa will remain at sea until it is safe to return to Brisbane.

“As the safety of our guests and crew is the priority, Carnival Luminosa’s current voyage will be delayed coming back from the South Pacific until it is safe to return to Brisbane, possibly being Saturday morning. The Captain is sailing a safe distance from the storm to minimize discomfort for our guests.

We know this is disappointing and we thank guests for their understanding,” said the Carnival representative.

Cunard and Norwegian Cruise Line guests have also been impacted by Cyclone Alfred. Both Cunard’s Queen Anne and Norwegian Sun skipped scheduled calls to Brisbane this week due to the storm.

In its most recent update, the Port of Brisbane stated that all cruise calls are under consideration of the cruise lines and Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ).

“At this stage, some areas have only experienced light winds and rain. Please do not be complacent – the next 24 hours could result in significant severe weather impacts across the region,” the update warned.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged the public to “be sensible.”

The Independent quoted Albanese warning residents to take safety precautions: “This isn’t a time for sightseeing or for seeing what it’s like to experience these conditions firsthand. Please stay safe.”