The cruise industry is no stranger to the unpredictable nature of weather, but the recent events involving the Royal Caribbean's ship, Odyssey of the Seas, have taken unexpected twists. Originally set to embark on a tropical journey to the Bahamas, the ship found itself stranded in New Jersey, blanketed in snow due to Winter Storm Hernando. This situation provides a unique glimpse into how weather can significantly impact cruise operations and passenger experiences.

Weather Disruptions in the Cruise Industry

Winter Storm Hernando has been a major disruptor in the travel sector, affecting thousands of passengers across various modes of transportation. The cruise industry, in particular, has felt the brunt of this storm, with ships such as Odyssey of the Seas and MSC Meraviglia forced to remain docked, unable to adhere to their planned itineraries.

Odyssey of the Seas, part of the Quantum Class fleet, was slated to leave Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey, on February 22. However, high winds and rough seas prompted Royal Caribbean to delay the ship's departure, setting the stage for an unusual sight: a cruise ship covered in snow.

Surprising Scenes on Board

Passengers who anticipated waking up to the vast blue of the ocean instead were greeted by the rare spectacle of snow-covered decks and overcast skies. This unexpected winter wonderland provided a unique backdrop for those onboard, shifting the atmosphere from a tropical getaway to a cozy, snowy retreat.

Thanks to contributions from passengers Jerel Donovan and Warren Caesar, we have a collection of images showcasing Odyssey of the Seas enveloped in snow, capturing the surreal contrast between a cruise ship's typical sunny image and the harsh winter conditions.

Current Status of Odyssey of the Seas

As of February 23, 2026, at 12:10 p.m. EST, the Odyssey of the Seas remains docked in New Jersey. The ship's intended path included a stop at Port Canaveral, Florida, on February 24, followed by visits to Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau. However, with the ship's departure delayed, further changes to the itinerary are anticipated, depending on the storm's progression and conditions at sea.

Planned Itinerary: February 22: Depart from Cape Liberty, New Jersey February 24: Arrival at Port Canaveral, Florida Following stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau

During this unplanned dock time, onboard amenities such as shops and the casino must remain closed due to local regulations, further impacting the experience for those on board. Despite these restrictions, passengers are making the best of the situation, enjoying the unique circumstances and sharing their experiences with fellow travelers.

Comparison with Other Cruise Lines

Odyssey of the Seas is not the only ship affected by the storm. MSC Meraviglia also experienced delays, remaining docked at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. Similar to Odyssey, Meraviglia's itinerary includes a stop at Port Canaveral followed by a visit to the cruise line’s private island in The Bahamas. The impact of severe weather on multiple cruise lines highlights the industry's vulnerability to natural elements, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in travel planning.

Impact of Winter Storm Hernando on the Northeast

The effects of Winter Storm Hernando have extended beyond the cruise industry, with over 500,000 homes and businesses in the Northeast losing power amidst heavy snow and powerful winds. According to The Weather Channel, the storm has brought record snowfall to the region, with Central Park receiving over 15 inches, marking the city's most significant snowfall in over five years.

Should New York receive an additional 2.4 inches of snow, this storm will be remembered as the heaviest since January 2016. Passengers aboard Odyssey of the Seas and other vessels must navigate not only their travel plans but also the realities of severe winter weather, which could lead to extended stays at port.

What Passengers Can Expect Moving Forward

As the cruise industry continues to adapt to changing travel conditions, passengers must remain informed about their itinerary and be prepared for potential alterations. Royal Caribbean is committed to ensuring the safety of its guests and crew, and as such, timely communication will be crucial for those aboard the Odyssey of the Seas as the storm progresses.

Conclusion: Navigating the Unexpected

The unexpected scenario faced by Odyssey of the Seas serves as a reminder that while cruising is often synonymous with sunny skies and idyllic destinations, the reality of travel can sometimes include unpredictable weather challenges. As the storm continues to impact the Northeast, both passengers and crew are demonstrating resilience and adaptability. The commitment of cruise lines like Royal Caribbean to prioritize safety ensures that, once conditions improve, travelers can look forward to resuming their tropical adventures.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the cruise industry, staying informed and prepared can make all the difference for travelers, turning unforeseen circumstances into memorable experiences. As we await updates on Odyssey's departure, we are reminded that every journey has its unique story—sometimes, even a snowy one.

--- **Source Attribution:** This article is based on information from [Royal Caribbean Blog](https://www.royalcaribbeanblog.com/2026/02/23 -caribbean-cruise-ship-blizzard-photos). We appreciate their original reporting and encourage readers to visit their site for more cruise industry coverage. *Port Side Left aggregates and enhances cruise industry news from multiple sources to provide comprehensive coverage for cruise enthusiasts.*