NEWS: Middle East Conflict Forces Cruise Disruptions; Operators Take Measures to Repatriate Guests
- Discovering Hospitality
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States have caused significant disruption to cruise operations across the Middle East, with multiple ships remaining in port amid regional instability. Approximately six vessels, carrying around 15,000 passengers and over 6,000 crew members, are currently affected. Notable ships include MSC Euribia, Celestyal Discovery, Celestyal Journey, Mein Schiff 4, Mein Schiff 5, and Aroya Manara.
Current Status of Cruises
TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 4 is docked in Abu Dhabi, while Mein Schiff 5 remains in Doha.
Other affected vessels are stationed in Dubai.
Celestyal Cruises has confirmed that passengers on cancelled sailings will receive full refunds or future cruise credits.
MSC Cruises has cancelled its remaining Dubai departures for the winter season (March 14–28), offering refunds to impacted guests.
The recently launched Aroya Manara, owned by Saudi Arabia, had embarked on its maiden voyage to Doha at the start of the Persian Gulf season, originally scheduled to run through May.
Passenger Experiences
Passengers have faced significant travel disruptions. Some aboard Mein Schiff 5 experienced flight cancellations and over 10 hours of waiting at Doha airport before returning to the ship without their luggage. Mein Schiff 4 passengers narrowly avoided danger on February 29 when a missile landed near the vessel, which currently houses roughly 2,500 passengers and 1,000 crew members.
Operator Responses
MSC Cruises continues to coordinate with regional authorities and airlines to facilitate safe travel, acknowledging that repatriation will require time due to high demand and logistical challenges.
Celestyal Cruises has confirmed that Celestyal Journey will host passengers in Doha until March 7, after which guests may choose to disembark. Celestyal Discovery remains restricted in port.
TUI Cruises announced plans to deploy its own aircraft to return guests, despite typically not operating in the region. This plan is pending governmental approval and confirmation.
Cruise operators remain in close contact with authorities to ensure the safety and timely repatriation of all passengers and crew.
