Over 2,000 Passengers on Carnival Ship Can't Return to Tampa

Photo byCruise Fever

According to news reports, Carnival Cruise Line is navigating a complicated situation as one of the oldest ship's in its fleet cannot return to the Port of Tampa Bay due to Hurricane Milton's aftermath.

The storm has significantly disrupted the itinerary of Carnival Cruise Line's Carnival Paradise, leaving thousands of passengers uncertain where they will disembark.

The ship, which departed Tampa on October 6 for a Western Caribbean cruise, was unable to return to its homeport due to the storm's damage to Port Tampa Bay.

As a result, Carnival Paradise has been forced to remain at sea, seeking an alternative port for debarkation and embarkation.

The cruise line has already canceled the ship's scheduled departure on October 10 and is actively exploring options to disembark the approximately 2,124 passengers currently onboard.

One possibility under consideration is embarking guests from Port Canaveral, located about 130 miles away from Tampa, which is about a 3 hour drive.

While the final decision is pending, Carnival Paradise is currently heading for PortMiami to debark guests from the October 6 sailing.

Those who wish to return to Tampa will be provided with a complimentary shuttle, while others may choose to remain onboard the ship until October 14.

Carnival Cruise Line has been in contact with guests to gather information about their debarkation preferences and to ensure that all necessary arrangements are made.

Despite the disruption, the ship's services, including hotel, restaurant, and entertainment options, remain fully operational.