MSC Ship Forced to Abandon Port Call Amidst Deteriorating Weather Conditions
MSC Cruises’ MSC Splendida encountered severe weather conditions while navigating the Mediterranean. On January 7, 2026, the ship, carrying up to 3,900 guests, issued warnings about rough seas as it traveled from Palermo, Sicily, to La Goulette, Tunisia. Although the itinerary remained unchanged initially, weather complications led to a last-minute decision to cancel the scheduled stop in La Goulette on January 8.
Captain Giuseppe Maresca informed passengers that strong wind gusts reaching 35 knots made it unsafe to dock. The captain emphasized the importance of safety, stating that the decision to forgo the port call was made to ensure the comfort of everyone onboard.
In response to the cancellation, the MSC Splendida spent January 8 at sea, steering towards calmer weather, and added a port stop in Palma de Mallorca on January 9. Guests were informed that they could look forward to a day filled with the vibrant culture and beautiful scenery of the Balearic Islands.
The ship made its port call in Palma from noon to 8 p.m., allowing guests to explore before concluding their 7-night journey and returning to Barcelona on January 10.
Cruise tracking data indicated the MSC Splendida was navigating rough seas with swells of around 3.6 meters (approximately 12 feet) during the early morning hours of January 8. Passengers shared videos on social media showcasing the challenging conditions, which included significant wave activity and strong winds.
Crew members took additional safety measures, such as advising guests to remain indoors and exercise caution while moving around the ship. There were no reports of injuries or damages due to the weather, as the crew proactively managed the situation to ensure passenger safety.
Despite the unexpected weather challenges, guests appeared to enjoy their sailing experience aboard MSC Splendida.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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