NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has made a last-minute adjustment to the itineraries of its ship, Norwegian Star, removing Antarctica from the upcoming routes. This decision has left passengers disappointed, as they will miss out on the opportunity to visit this unique destination.
Passengers aboard the Norwegian Star, currently heading to the Falklands UK, were informed over the weekend that the planned trip would need to be altered for operational reasons. Consequently, both the current sailing and another scheduled departure on February 18th will no longer include a visit to Antarctica, effectively shortening NCL’s season.
Additionally, the sailing on February 26th has replaced its stop in Antarctica with a visit to Admiralty Bay in the sub-Antarctic South Shetland Islands.
A notification sent to travelers explained that while efforts are made to maintain original itineraries, modifications are occasionally necessary to optimize the journey or accommodate unforeseen circumstances, ultimately aiming to enhance the guest experience.
The original stops at Paradise Bay and continental Antarctica have been replaced, with the ship now skirting past the tip of the South Shetlands and Elephant Islands. A spokesperson for the cruise line stated that while NCL endeavors to adhere to original itineraries, certain circumstances may necessitate unavoidable changes.
The spokesperson elaborated that the revised itinerary aims to provide guests with more time to explore Stanley, Falkland Islands, to enhance their experience. Consequently, the cruise by Paradise Bay Antarctica, has been substituted with a cruise by Admiralty Bay in Antarctica’s South Shetland Island chain.
Regarding the reduced speed of the ship, the spokesperson explained that this adjustment is in response to recent regulatory requirements in the area, impacting the original itinerary. The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) implemented slower speed restrictions during the summer of 2023-24 to protect migratory whales. While this regulation was introduced relatively recently, cruise operators like NCL have been made aware of the impending change since 2021.
The Norwegian Star, a 23-year-old ship accommodating 2300 passengers, is one of the larger vessels visiting Antarctica this summer.