As per the communication sent to patrons booked for the ship’s forthcoming voyage, deliberations are ongoing with the U.S. Coast Guard, the Maryland state authorities, and Baltimore Port officials.
The company elaborated, stating that significant headway has been achieved in the clearance of the channel, and there is a strong sign that cruise operations can resume in Baltimore before the close of May.
Following advice received from port authorities, Carnival intends to inaugurate the Pride’s next trip from Norfolk on May 19, 2024.
Nonetheless, the cruise is now anticipated to culminate in Baltimore, as mentioned in the written announcement by the company.
To facilitate this operational strategy, Carnival is recommending guests to utilize their complimentary shuttle service linking Baltimore and Norfolk for boarding purposes.
By doing so, guests planning to drive to the cruise will eliminate the necessity to return to Norfolk to retrieve their vehicles, as highlighted by the company.
“Carnival will be arranging transportation via buses for all participants who register in advance for the provision,” the cruise operator further emphasized.
As a gesture of gratitude for their understanding, patrons will be granted a $100 onboard credit for each stateroom, the company further stated.
On May 19, 2024, the Carnival Pride is slated to embark on a seven-night cruise, heading to the Bahamas and making stops at Nassau, Freeport, and Princess Cays.
The Port of Baltimore had been shut to cruise ship activities for the past two months following the failure of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
The mishap took place when the container vessel Dali collided with the bridge during the early hours of March 26, 2024, causing the closure.
Having previously operated year-round voyages from Baltimore, the Carnival Pride was redirected to Norfolk in the meantime.
Meanwhile, undergoing refurbishment in the Bahamas, Royal Caribbean’s Vision of the Seas was also rerouted to Norfolk in the aftermath of the incident.