For the most part, cruise ships are able to avoid bad weather — simply sailing out of the way to calmer waters.
Every once in a while, however, ships face rough seas, and the impact can be damaging. Case in point: A video shared on Twitter shows what is said to be Carnival Sunshine after sailing through rough weather when returning to its homeport of Charleston, South Carolina.
The aftermath aboard Carnival Sunshine after a severe storm.
The crew from Deck 0-4 evacuated to the theater, and anywhere they could rest… the crew bar destroyed. pic.twitter.com/MqsDJYvrSG— Crew Center (@CrewCenter) May 28, 2023
As you can see, the video shows significant amounts of water around the deck, along with broken doors, smashed furniture, and general upheaval. The video above is said to be of the crew quarters on the ship.
For passengers, the storm and its impact was also harrowing. Local news station WCIV (ABC 4) in Charleston reported that some passengers felt scared and that Carnival didn’t provide much information about what was happening:
“Passenger Christa Seifert-Alicea said they didn’t receive communication for over 12 hours. To be in the middle of the ocean, in the middle of the night, with no information was the worst part, she said.
“‘What we endured is indescribable, not only to feel it yourself but to hear and see it set in on every single person around you from adult, child and the elderly is something I will never forget,’ she said.”
In a statement to the news station, Carnival advised that some guests and crew did need some help following the incident. The ship’s next cruise was also delayed.
“Carnival Sunshine’s return to Charleston was impacted by the weather and rough seas on Saturday. Guests on board the ship were safe. Our medical staff helped a small number of guests and crew members who needed minor assistance. The weather’s prolonged impact on the Charleston area delayed the ship’s arrival on Sunday and as a result, the next voyage’s embarkation was also delayed. We appreciate the patience and understanding of all our guests.”
As of now, Carnival Sunshine is on its next cruise and docked for a port of call in Nassau according to CruiseMapper.com. The ship can be seen via the Port of Nassau webcam. No visible damage can be seen to the ship’s exterior from the webcam view.
