Hurricane Joaquin Sends Cruise Lines Packing

At least three cruise lines have rerouted their ships sailing in the Caribbean to avoid Hurricane Joaquin, according to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism.

Carnival Cruise Lines has altered its Eastern Caribbean itineraries for Pride and Valor, Princess Cruises replaced Royal Princess’ call at the line’s private island, and Norwegian Cruise Line has canceled Getaway’s Nassau call scheduled for later this week.

Recent reports from a U.S. Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft investigating Hurricane Joaquin indicate that the maximum sustained winds have increased to near 105 mph – a strong Category 2 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

Additional strengthening during the next 48 hours is forecast, and Joaquin is expected to become a major hurricane during the next 24 hours.

Joaquin is centered about 95 miles east of San Salvador in the Bahamas. A general motion toward the southwest near 7 mph is expected through Thursday, followed by a turn toward the northwest and north Thursday night or Friday.