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A hurricane, a severe tropical storm, forming in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Eastern
Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea, & Gulf of Mexico feed off of tropical oceans,
moisture and the winds above them. Hurricanes can produce violent winds of at least
75 miles per hour, huge waves, and torrential rains with flooding. A hurricane rotates
in a counterclockwise direction around the eye. On the average there are 6 Atlantic
hurricanes every year. Heavy waves are known as a storm surge. A storm surge is
the cause for evacuation from the ocean area during a hurricane warning or hurricane.
Visit the National
Hurricane Center to stay updated on all storms and hurricanes.
Cruisers beware that cruising the Caribbean during the summer and fall months otherwise
known as hurricane season can create a wet and stormy vacation. Sailing during hurricane
season offers pricing at the lowest point of the year. The best cruise deals are
during the fall months including late August to mid December. The chances that your
cruise is going to be affected by a hurricane is very slim.
The Season:
Technically, hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30 with peak the
season in the eastern Caribbean and the east coast of the U.S. from mid-August through
mid September. In the Western Caribbean, the peak season is later, running mid-September
through early November. The average hurricane season brings 8 to 11 tropical storms.
Cruise Ship Safety During Hurricanes:
Cruise lines have specific hurricane & tropical storm emergency response plans
including state-of-the-art satellites for up to the minute tracking. Re-routing
an itinerary to escape a hurricane or tropical storm is common. Cruise ships can
outrun a storm as a storm moves at about 8 - 10 knots, while a cruise ship can reach
speeds of up to 22 knots.
Hurricane Travel Delays:
Often hurricanes & tropical storms cause travel related problems for those en
route to their port of embarkation. If cruising during hurricane season, it is always
suggested to arrive in port a couple of days early should difficulties arise.
Seasickness Caused by Rough Waters:
Symptoms of seasickness include nausea, stomach cramps and vomiting. If you have
a history of motion sickness it is suggested that you use preventive measures. The
following are suggested:
Transderm Scopola, a chemical within an adhesive patch that is worn behind the ear.
This is available only by prescription, and lasts approximately 72 hours and can
help prevent symptoms. This medication has possible side effects, including dry
mouth, blurred vision, & drowsiness.
Dramamine, Meclizine and Diphenhydramine, are available at shipboard infirmaries
as well as stronger and more effective prescription drugs are available. Since the
cost is that of an office visit plus the medication, you are better off seeing your
personal physician before the cruise.
Sea-Band wristband, wraps around the wrist and should be worn before embarkation.
The acupressure inspired product has a plastic piece that pushes against the Nei-Kuan
pressure point, on the palm side of your wrist. Helping to curb nausea and vomiting,
and has zero side effects. These wristbands are available in adult and children's
sizes.
Important Hurricane Links:
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