Carnival Forecasts a Weaker Hurricane Season for Cruise Travelers

Hurricane season is here, and if you have a cruise planned, you’re probably wondering what it means for your vacation. Carnival Cruise Line just released a video update with some reassuring news.

What Carnival’s Weather Expert Says About 2026 Hurricane Season

Carnival’s weather contributor, Amy Sweezey, hosted the update. She explained what cruisers can expect this season and why there’s reason to feel good about it.

The big headline? A strong El Niño is back.

“The big weather story for this season is that El Niño is making a comeback. You’ve probably heard this one being called a ‘Super El Niño,’ which isn’t really a thing, but it is forecast to be a strong El Niño,” Sweezey said.

Fewer Storms Expected This Season

El Niño typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity. That’s great news if you’re cruising the Caribbean or Gulf of Mexico this year.

“But for the Atlantic hurricane season, it means fewer and weaker hurricanes,” Sweezey explained. The Atlantic basin covers the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean, and the Gulf.

To put things in perspective, a typical hurricane season produces 14 named storms. “Based on a 30-year climate period from 1991 to 2020, an average Atlantic season has 14 named storms. Seven of those would be hurricanes and three major hurricanes,” Sweezey noted.

NOAA’s 2026 Forecast

NOAA gives a 55% chance of a below-normal season this year. The agency predicts eight to 14 named storms, three to six hurricanes, and just one to three major hurricanes. A storm must reach Category 3 or higher to be considered a major hurricane.

How Cruise Ships Handle Hurricanes

Even in an active season, cruise ships have a big advantage over land-based vacations. Your ship can simply move out of a storm’s path.

“Regardless of the forecast, the good news about a cruise vacation is that your ship is a floating resort. It can sail away from any potential storm activity. That allows captains to sail into the safest water,” Sweezey said.

Carnival ships are also well-prepared for rough conditions. “Each Carnival ship undergoes strict inspections and is equipped with the latest technology, along with skilled officers and crew who undergo comprehensive emergency training,” Sweezey added.

When Is Hurricane Season?

Hurricane season runs through November 30. The Atlantic and Pacific seasons have different start dates, but both are now active. Peak activity typically happens in early September.

Carnival’s Fleet Operations Center in Miami monitors conditions around the clock. The team tracks weather 24/7 and stays in close contact with every ship in the fleet.

“If an itinerary change is necessary due to weather, information is communicated immediately to guests,” Sweezey noted. So if your port stops need to shift, you won’t be left in the dark.