In a dramatic move that has sent shockwaves through the travel industry, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has been forced to cancel all visits to a popular Caribbean destination following an urgent and severe warning from the UK Foreign Office.
The cruise giant has axed all scheduled stops in Guatemala after the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) issued a stark alert, warning of an "imminent threat of kidnapping" to foreign tourists in the region. The warning specifically highlights the Puerto Quetzal and Guatemala City areas.
Passengers Left in the Lurch
The sudden cancellation has left thousands of passengers on upcoming voyages facing last-minute changes to their long-awaited holidays. NCL has confirmed it is proactively reaching out to affected travellers to rearrange itineraries, replacing the Guatemalan port of call with an alternative destination.
An NCL spokesperson stated: "The safety and security of our guests and crew is our highest priority. As such, we have altered the itinerary of Norwegian Jade’s February 6, 2024 sailing... we are communicating with impacted guests."
Understanding the FCDO Warning
The FCDO's updated guidance paints a concerning picture for travellers, advising against all but essential travel to large parts of the Central American nation. The warning is explicit: “There is an imminent threat of kidnapping in the Puerto Quetzal and Guatemala City areas.”
The advisory further cautions that criminals have been known to target areas popular with tourists, with incidents of violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, being ‘common’.
What This Means for Your Holiday
For those booked on an affected cruise, the line will typically substitute the cancelled port for another, such as Costa Maya or Cozumel in Mexico. While this ensures the voyage continues, it undoubtedly causes disappointment for those looking forward to experiencing Guatemala's renowned Mayan ruins and rich culture.
The incident serves as a stark reminder for all UK travellers to rigorously check FCDO travel advice before booking and departing on any holiday, as situations in certain destinations can change rapidly and without warning.
