Holland America Rotterdam Skips Port Limon Due to Weather

The Holland America Line Rotterdam faced high swells and strong winds from the west-southwest during its scheduled visit to Port Limon, Costa Rica, on Monday, March 24, 2025. These adverse conditions created unstable gangways and put excessive strain on the ship's mooring lines, prompting the crew to deem the port unsafe. As a result, the Rotterdam skipped Port Limon entirely and spent the day at sea to ensure the wellbeing of its passengers and crew.

Weather and Docking Challenges

The Rotterdam attempted to dock at 8 a.m. local time but was met with challenging conditions, including elevated water levels and unpredictable harbor swells. According to captain’s announcements, strong wind and swells compromised the stability of the gangways and exerted excessive tension on the mooring lines. Crew members, along with the local harbor pilot, assessed the situation and ultimately determined passenger disembarkation was not safe.

TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 1 also arrived in Port Limon that day but was better protected on the inland side of the port. In contrast, the Rotterdam was more exposed to the gusty conditions, contributing to the difficult decision to cancel the port visit.

Impact on Passengers

Most guests awaiting shore excursions assembled in the ship’s theater when the announcement about canceling the port call was made. All Holland America Line-sponsored excursions were automatically canceled and refunded, with the funds credited directly to onboard accounts. According to statements from passengers, the process remained orderly, with no significant unrest.

Later that day, a written statement was delivered to staterooms, explaining the circumstances and reinforcing the commitment to safety. “We recognize that the cancellation of a port of call, regardless of the circumstances, can be disappointing, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding,” read the letter, signed on behalf of the ship’s officers and crew.

Safety First: Mooring Line Incidents

Extreme weather can put substantial stress on a vessel’s mooring lines. If these lines snap, they can pose considerable safety risks, including the possibility of a ship drifting from the pier or destabilizing gangways. Past incidents, such as one involving MSC Cruises’ MSC Musica in Brazil in February 2023 and another with Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Prima in Belgium in July 2023, highlight these dangers, though neither resulted in injuries.

Due to proactive measures by the Rotterdam’s officers and crew, passengers remained safe, and the decision to forgo docking circumvented further hazards.

Next Steps for Rotterdam

After bypassing Port Limon, the Rotterdam continued its 12-night Panama Canal Sunfarer itinerary, heading out for a day at sea before the next scheduled port of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. That stop marks the final port before the cruise concludes in Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Friday, March 28.

This docking challenge follows two earlier norovirus outbreaks aboard the Rotterdam in 2025, testing the crew’s crisis management efforts. Despite these issues, many passengers have praised Holland America Line’s consistent focus on safety, expressing trust in the company’s operational standards.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why was Rotterdam unable to dock at Port Limon?

Strong winds from the west-southwest and high swells created unsafe conditions, leading to instability in the gangways and excessive strain on mooring lines. Concern for passenger and crew safety prompted the cancellation.

Were passengers compensated for the canceled port stop?

Holland America Line automatically refunded all shore excursions booked through the cruise line. These refunds were issued to passenger onboard accounts without requiring any additional steps.

How do mooring line incidents occur and what are the risks?

High winds and strong swells can create excessive tension on the ropes securing the ship to the dock. If a line snaps, the ship may shift unexpectedly or cause gangways to become unstable, posing safety risks.

What is Rotterdam’s itinerary after skipping Port Limon?

The ship continued its route with a day at sea, then headed toward Ocho Rios, Jamaica, before returning to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on March 28.

How often do cruise ships encounter such weather challenges?

Extremely rough conditions are not commonplace, but they can occur in any global port. Cruise lines apply rigorous operational protocols to protect passengers and crew whenever they face adverse weather.