Norwegian Cruise Line has announced adjustments to the itineraries of two upcoming voyages on Norwegian Viva, a change impacting scheduled stops in Kralendijk, Bonaire. This update, shared with booked guests, concerns the sailings departing on February 16 and February 23, 2025, which will no longer include a visit to this popular Caribbean destination. This Travel Itinerary News highlights ongoing efforts by cruise lines to refine their offerings.
In a statement, Norwegian Cruise Line explained the decision as part of a broader strategy to “optimize itineraries for enhanced port and shore excursion availability.” The company emphasized its commitment to improving the overall guest experience, alongside considerations for “fuel optimization” and adherence to “global maritime regulations” as contributing factors to this itinerary modification. This adjustment reflects the dynamic nature of travel itinerary news in the cruise industry.
The affected voyages, which are roundtrip from San Juan, Puerto Rico, are designed to explore the Southern and Eastern Caribbean. While acknowledging the significance of destinations in travelers’ cruise choices, Norwegian Cruise Line reassured guests that these changes are made with “an optimal guest experience top-of-mind.” This travel itinerary news emphasizes the cruise line’s focus on customer satisfaction.
Despite the removal of Bonaire from the schedule, the revised itinerary now boasts extended stays in several other desirable Caribbean ports. Passengers can now enjoy more time in La Romana, Dominican Republic; Oranjestad, Aruba; Willemstad, Curacao; Castries, St. Lucia; and Basseterre, St. Kitts. This travel itinerary news presents a shift in focus to these alternative destinations.
For guests who had booked shore excursions in Kralendijk, Bonaire, through Norwegian Cruise Line, automatic cancellations and full refunds are being processed back to the original form of payment. The cruise line also mentioned adjustments to shore excursions in the revised ports to align with the updated schedules, ensuring a seamless transition for booked guests. This travel itinerary news includes important practical information for affected passengers.
Norwegian Viva, a relatively new ship launched in 2023, is currently based in the Caribbean region for the winter season, offering week-long cruises to the Southern and Eastern Caribbean from mid-December to mid-April. Its schedule typically includes visits to a variety of Caribbean gems, such as Tortola, St. Maarten, Barbados, and St. Thomas, in addition to others. This travel itinerary news provides context about the ship and its regular routes.