Royal Caribbean, Holland America Avoid Middle East Unrest
By Theresa Norton Masek
September 14, 2012 1:41 PM
Cruise lines were closely monitoring the angry anti-American protests in the Middle East, with Royal Caribbean International and Holland America Line adjusting itineraries. Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas, which departs Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, on Sept. 15, will no longer call on Alexandria, Egypt, on Sept. 18. Instead, the ship will call at Sicily, Italy, on Sept. 16, and Valletta, Malta, on Sept. 17. The company said it changed the itinerary “in an abundance of caution” and that it will contact guests or their travel agents in case of additional modifications.
Holland America’s Ryndam called at Sardinia, Italy, Sept. 14 instead of La Goulette, Tunisia. “This change was made out of an abundance of caution due to La Goulette’s proximity to Tunis and the potential for continued protest activity there,” the company said. “The safety of our guests and crew is our top priority.
9/17/12
Liked Murphy's video about AMAwaterways ship in Mekong.
HATE Jame's blaring voice when I open Pulse to read a story.
Thanks for the pleasant change and the informative short video.