Crown Princess Reroutes Africa Cruise, Adds Durban Stop Amid Severe Weather

Princess Cruises’ Crown Princess is currently navigating an array of severe weather systems along the southern coast of Africa, prompting a series of route adjustments for its 113-night world cruise. Originally departing Auckland, New Zealand, on May 31, 2025, the 3,080-passenger, 113,561-gross-ton vessel was scheduled to visit Cape Town on June 25 but has since modified its itinerary to avoid gale-force winds and high swells near South Africa’s southern tip.

Severe Weather and Safety Measures

According to Captain Christopher Lye, “The current weather forecast is still showing a series of adverse weather systems causing strong winds and heavy swells,” making it inadvisable to traverse the area as planned. In a letter distributed to guests, Princess Cruises confirmed a tactical shift to South Africa’s east coast to “allow the worst of the weather to pass” before entering Cape Town.

South African Weather Service alerts highlighted damaging wave warnings for the southern coast and gale-force wind advisories for both the west and east Cape coasts, with winds reaching 35–45 knots. Captain Lye emphasized that passenger and crew safety remains the primary concern as the ship’s bridge team adjusts speed, routing, and port schedules in real time.

Itinerary Changes and Updated Port Calls

Crown Princess added Durban, South Africa, on June 25 (7 a.m.–7 p.m.), replacing the previously scheduled Cape Town stop on that date. Cape Town itself was postponed to an overnight call from June 28 (7 a.m.) to June 29 (6 p.m.). This delay in Cape Town’s visit also caused Walvis Bay, Namibia, to shift to July 1 (9 a.m.–6 p.m.).

Further modifications followed for the Atlantic leg. The July 6 call to Mindelo, Cape Verde, was canceled to accommodate a sea day. Gran Canaria, originally set for July 9, was replaced by Santa Cruz de Tenerife, maintaining a stop in the Canary Islands. Casablanca, Morocco, was pushed back by one day, while Gibraltar, scheduled for July 12, was removed from the itinerary to accommodate the Casablanca shift.

Operational Adaptations and Previous Incidents

Earlier in June, the Crown Princess encountered a 7-degree tilt when traveling between Sydney and Adelaide, causing onboard activity disruptions. A similar 14-degree tilt occurred in February while navigating high winds in New Zealand’s Milford Sound. These incidents underscore the unpredictable nature of extended voyages through diverse weather regions, reinforcing the importance of operational adaptability and contingency planning.

Princess Cruises assured guests that the Crown Princess is built to handle rough seas, with the bridge team continuously monitoring conditions and adopting safety-first route alterations. “We will delay our arrival into Cape Town, South Africa, and will remain on the east coast to allow the worst of the weather to pass through the area,” noted Captain Lye in his public address, highlighting the cruise line’s commitment to cautious navigation.

Passenger Impact and Local Economies

Many travelers were looking forward to ports of call in South Africa, Namibia, Cape Verde, and elsewhere. Although these regions often benefit from passenger spending, the detours and cancellations may reduce tourism revenue in affected ports. Princess Cruises has worked with local authorities in Durban and Cape Town to implement alternative docking arrangements, mitigating further scheduling disruptions.

Guests booked on shore excursions in canceled destinations, such as Mindelo and Gibraltar, receive automatic refunds credited to their onboard accounts. Excursions for rescheduled stops (including Casablanca) remain valid on the revised dates. Additional shipping updates and letters are delivered to staterooms as the final itinerary evolves.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Crown Princess alter its South Africa schedule?

The ship encountered multiple adverse weather systems near South Africa, including gale-force winds and high swells. Captain Lye deemed it unsafe to round the southern coast as originally planned, prioritizing passenger safety.

Which ports of call were changed or canceled?

Durban was added on June 25, Cape Town was delayed until June 28–29, and Walvis Bay was moved to July 1. Mindelo (Cape Verde) and Gibraltar were canceled, and Gran Canaria was replaced by Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Casablanca’s visit shifted by one day.

How are passengers compensated for canceled excursions?

Princess Cruises automatically refunds ship-organized tours in affected ports to guests’ onboard accounts. For ports like Casablanca that have been rescheduled, existing tickets are still valid on the new date.

Is the ship safe in these conditions?

Crown Princess is designed to withstand rough seas, and its bridge team closely monitors weather patterns. The captain adjusts speed and routing to avoid the most severe conditions, adhering to strict maritime safety protocols.

Will the Crown Princess continue its 113-night world cruise as planned?

Yes. The vessel intends to complete its global itinerary, adapting stops as needed. Princess Cruises remains committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience while communicating changes promptly to all onboard guests.

Following the revised calls in South Africa and Namibia, Crown Princess will continue toward the Canary Islands, North Africa, and beyond, with the crew and shoreside teams refining schedules as weather permits. Passengers can expect further updates through daily announcements, ensuring transparent communication until the ship completes its journey in September 2025.