Norwegian Cruise Line has cancelled the last planned sailing of Norwegian Sky, originally set to depart from Piraeus (Athens), Greece, on September 9, 2026. The cancellation affects a repositioning cruise initially planned as a 21-day voyage to Dubai, later shortened to an 18-day sail concluding in Muscat, Oman.
Middle East Conflict Prompts Itinerary Changes and Cancellation
The cancellation follows escalating tensions and conflict in the Persian Gulf region. Norwegian Cruise Line had shortened the voyage to avoid the Persian Gulf but ultimately decided to cancel the sailing entirely due to an inability to safely deliver the planned cruise experience amid ongoing regional uncertainties.
Passenger Refunds, Future Cruise Credits, and Airfare Handling
Norwegian Cruise Line is providing
full refunds to all guests booked on the cancelled voyage, automatically returning payments to the original payment methods. In addition to refunds, passengers will receive a future cruise credit totaling 50% of the current voyage fare, adjusted from a previously offered 15% credit after the itinerary was shortened. Future cruise credits are valid for use on any Norwegian Cruise Line sailing worldwide until December 31, 2027.
Guests who booked airfare through Norwegian Cruise Line will have flights automatically cancelled and refunded. Passengers with independently booked flights may claim reimbursement for eligible change or cancellation fees up to $300 USD per
person. Norwegian Cruise Line also permitted penalty-free cancellations for guests who cancelled following the earlier itinerary adjustments.
Norwegian Sky Transitions to Cordelia Cruises in India
Norwegian Sky will exit the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet and begin operations under India-based Cordelia Cruises in October 2026, renamed Cordelia Sky. The ship, with a passenger capacity of 2,004 guests, is set to operate routes from Mumbai to Goa, including stops in Lakshadweep and short cruises to nowhere. Cordelia Cruises is offering both roundtrip and one-way departures on the vessel.
Official Statements Emphasize Guest Safety and Appreciation
Norwegian Cruise Line stated the decision was driven by guest and crew safety. “Given the ongoing uncertainty in the region, we no
longer have the level of confidence needed to deliver the experience you expect and deserve,” the company said. “While this was a difficult decision, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew guided every step of the process, and we believe it is the right one.”
The cruise line also acknowledged customer understanding during the process: “We recognize the flexibility, grace, and understanding so many of you have shown throughout this process, and we are sincerely grateful.”
