Six Cruise Ships Remain in Arabian Gulf Amid Strait of Hormuz Disruption – 29 March 2026

Six cruise vessels remain berthed across ports in the Arabian Gulf following the suspension of regional cruise operations in late February 2026. Heightened geopolitical tensions and security concerns affecting maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz have delayed planned repositioning voyages for multiple international operators, with all passengers safely disembarked and repatriated.

Cruise lines continue to coordinate with maritime authorities and monitor developments regarding safe passage through the Strait. All affected vessels are receiving full berthing, provisioning, and logistical support while held in port.

Affected vessels

• MSC Euribia (MSC Cruises) — berthed in Dubai since 27 February; scheduled for repositioning to Northern Europe for Norwegian fjords season
• Celestyal Journey (Celestyal Cruises) — berthed in Doha; planned relocation to Greece for Eastern Mediterranean itineraries
• Celestyal Discovery (Celestyal Cruises) — berthed in Dubai; expected to relocate to Greece for Eastern Mediterranean operations
• Mein Schiff 4 (TUI Cruises) — berthed in Abu Dhabi; planned for Mediterranean operations
• Mein Schiff 5 (TUI Cruises) — berthed in Doha; planned for Mediterranean operations
• Aroya (operator not specified) — berthed in Dubai following winter deployment; expected to resume sailings from Jeddah before transitioning to Mediterranean routes

The suspension of cruise operations and repositioning voyages is linked to heightened geopolitical tensions affecting maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical corridor connecting the Arabian Gulf to global shipping routes. Reduced vessel traffic through the strait prompted cruise lines to suspend departures as a precautionary measure.

Passengers

• All passengers have been safely disembarked and repatriated; cruise lines coordinated travel arrangements amid reduced flight capacity in the region.

Crew

• Crew members remain onboard all six vessels to maintain vessel operations and systems while ships are held in port.

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• None reported.

Rescued

• All passengers safely disembarked and repatriated.

All six vessels remain in port pending clearance for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Ports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha continue to provide full berthing, provisioning, and logistical support. Cruise operators continue to monitor geopolitical developments and coordinate with maritime authorities regarding future vessel movements and repositioning schedules.