Winter Storm Delays Odyssey of the Seas’ Departure from New Jersey: Ship Forced to Stay at Homeport Amid Blizzard Warnings

A significant winter storm is wreaking havoc on travel plans for those aboard Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas. Passengers eagerly awaiting their 7-night Bahamas cruise from Bayonne, New Jersey, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, will have to hold off on their sea voyage for just a bit longer due to adverse weather conditions. The ship, which is homeported at Cape Liberty, New Jersey, will remain docked overnight at its homeport due to the storm’s intensity. While the situation may cause frustration for some, safety is paramount, and passengers have been notified that the ship will not set sail as initially planned.

Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas, a Quantum-Ultra Class ship, was scheduled to depart on Sunday, but an incoming blizzard storm has delayed these plans. Guests still need to arrive during their assigned time slots for embarkation, and the ship will maintain its boarding schedule. However, despite the storm holding the ship in port, passengers are expected to remain on board while waiting for the weather to subside. For those hoping to catch a glimpse of their ship heading out to sea on Sunday, the journey will be postponed due to safety concerns. But with the latest storm-related developments, guests can rest assured that their safety is the cruise line’s top priority.

Heavy Snowfall and Severe Winds Pose Risk to Passengers and Crew

A major winter storm is set to hit the Bayonne, New Jersey area, forcing the Odyssey of the Seas to remain at port. The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning, effective from Sunday afternoon until Monday evening. With snow accumulation expected to reach between 12 and 18 inches and wind gusts reaching up to 50 miles per hour, the storm presents a significant challenge for the cruise industry, which has already been impacted by several severe winter storms in the past month.

Royal Caribbean made the decision to keep Odyssey of the Seas docked at its homeport for the night in light of the potential hazards. The blizzard conditions expected to develop by Sunday evening could endanger the ship’s voyage, particularly due to high winds and rough seas that would make it unsafe to set sail. Although the cruise ship will not depart on schedule, Royal Caribbean has reassured guests that their embarkation process will not change, and they must arrive on time for the planned boarding.

As of now, the ship’s departure is set to be postponed until the weather improves. The scheduled 7-night Bahamas cruise was meant to depart at 2:00 PM on Sunday, but the blizzard conditions expected to set in during the late afternoon made it impossible for the ship to sail. With winds rising to 25 miles per hour and the storm strengthening through the evening, Odyssey of the Seas’ crew must prioritize passenger safety and wait until the situation improves.

Strict Boarding Procedures Remain in Place Despite Delay

Despite the weather-related delay, the scheduled embarkation process for Odyssey of the Seas will proceed as planned, meaning passengers should adhere to their assigned check-in times. The cruise line has clearly stated that no late arrivals will be permitted on board, as the gangways will be closed according to the original boarding schedule. Guests arriving after their designated time will not be allowed to board the vessel, which can accommodate up to 5,510 passengers when fully booked.

Royal Caribbean has taken extra precautions to ensure that the boarding process remains seamless despite the storm. The ship will remain docked overnight in Bayonne, New Jersey, with all onboard amenities and services available to guests until departure is possible. Guests are being kept informed through regular updates, and once the weather clears, Odyssey of the Seas will depart for its scheduled Bahamian journey.

This delay reflects the unpredictable nature of cruising during the winter months, especially along the northeastern coast of the United States, where winter storms can quickly alter travel schedules. For the thousands of travelers awaiting departure, this storm is an unfortunate disruption. However, their safety, as well as the safety of the crew, remains the priority for Royal Caribbean.

An Ongoing Challenge for Cruise Lines Along the Atlantic Coast

Winter storms have caused significant disruptions to cruise itineraries along the Atlantic coast in recent weeks, with multiple ships delayed or canceled due to severe weather. Odyssey of the Seas is one of several vessels that have had to alter their departure plans in response to these unpredictable storms. The cruise line industry has faced challenges as it navigates the delicate balance between maintaining schedules and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew during winter months.

The decision to keep Odyssey of the Seas at the Bayonne homeport overnight is not taken lightly. Royal Caribbean has a reputation for prioritizing passenger safety, and this weather-related decision underscores that commitment. With strong winds and heavy snow expected in the coming hours, this proactive decision aims to prevent potential hazards and ensure that the ship departs only when it is safe for both the passengers and the crew.

Safety Takes Priority as Storm Forces Delay for Odyssey of the Seas

In light of the upcoming blizzard, Odyssey of the Seas will stay docked at Bayonne, New Jersey overnight, delaying its departure for the 7-night Bahamas cruise. With strong winds, heavy snow, and a blizzard warning in effect, the ship’s departure will be postponed until the weather conditions improve. Royal Caribbean has taken every precaution to ensure the safety of both its passengers and crew, and guests are being informed of the updated schedule. While this delay may cause some inconvenience for travelers, their safety is the cruise line’s top priority.

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