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Hurricane-force winds force cruise ship to turn back
A Royal Caribbean cruise ship has been forced to turn back to port after an ‘horrendous’ night in hurricane-force winds.
Passengers on board the Anthem of the Seas reported a collapsed ceiling, broken glass, damaged furniture and debris as rain and wind battered the ship due to a storm off the coast of Florida.
The ship, carrying 4,529 passengers and 1,616 crew, will now sail back to Cape Liberty in New Jersey due to further bad weather forecasts which are likely to ‘impact the ship’s original itinerary’.
Royal Caribbean said that all guests would be given a full refund of the fare paid for their cruise as well as a voucher for 50% off a future cruise.
A spokesman said: ""We are also sensitive to the fact that our guests have already been through an uncomfortable ride. Returning to Cape Liberty minimizes the risks of further bad weather affecting our guests’ voyage; we are optimistic that they will have a smooth sail home.
"We appreciate the patience and cooperation of our guests. We know it was tough day on Sunday and apologize for their discomfort. We also thank our captain and crew for guiding the ship safely back to better weather.
"Safety is our highest priority and ships are designed to withstand even more extreme circumstances than Anthem of the Seas encountered. While the weather was unpleasant, the ship remained seaworthy at all times."
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