Carnival Horizon Brings Hurricane Relief to Jamaica Instead of Regular Port Visit

Carnival Cruise Line made a heartwarming decision to help Jamaica recover from Hurricane Melissa. The cruise line changed the Carnival Horizon’s November 4th visit to Ocho Rios into a relief mission.

The ship is still heading to Jamaica as planned. But instead of a regular port call, it’s bringing much-needed supplies to hurricane victims.

Hurricane Melissa Changes Everything

Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica hard in late October. The storm brought flooding, dangerous winds, and damaging storm surges to the island.

John Heald, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador, explained the situation in a video update. “The island is still healing from the devastating effects of flood water, high winds and storm surges,” he said.

The Carnival Horizon left Miami on November 2nd for its six-night Western Caribbean cruise. This time, the ship carries more than just passengers and their luggage.

Supplies and Support on Board

Carnival loaded the ship with emergency supplies for Jamaica. “Onboard the ship right now are much-needed supplies, which will be offloaded and taken into the island of Jamaica,” Heald explained.

The crew might use tender boats to deliver the supplies. This depends on whether the hurricane damaged the piers in Ocho Rios.

Heald shared the cruise line’s hopes for the mission. “We have supplies and all sorts of things ready, which will hopefully put a little smile on the people’s faces there and help them get through these very challenging days,” he said.

More Help Coming from Carnival Family

Carnival Cruise Line isn’t working alone on this relief effort. Carnival Corporation has already made donations to help Jamaica recover.

The Miami Heat Basketball Team joined the effort too. The Micky and Madeleine Arison Family Foundation also contributed to the cause.

These groups are working together to support Jamaica during this tough time.

Passengers Can Help Too

Carnival gave passengers on the Horizon a chance to join the relief effort. Guests can donate money to Jamaica’s disaster fund while they’re on the ship.

“We are also giving guests onboard the Carnival Horizon a chance to donate to the disaster fund for Jamaica,” Heald added.

Passengers have two ways to donate. They can visit guest services or add extra money during the Groove for St. Jude event.

Carnival sweetened the deal for passengers who want to help. “Carnival will match the donations made during this cruise. So, everybody on Carnival Horizon has a chance to donate,” Heald said.

This means every dollar passengers give will become two dollars for Jamaica’s recovery.

When Cruises Help Communities

This relief mission shows how cruise lines can help Caribbean communities during emergencies. Cruise ships can quickly transport supplies to islands that need help.

The Carnival Horizon’s changed itinerary might disappoint some passengers who wanted to explore Ocho Rios. But many cruisers appreciate being part of something bigger than their vacation.

Hurricane season affects the Caribbean every year. Cruise lines often adjust their schedules to help communities recover from storms.

Carnival’s quick response to Hurricane Melissa shows the company’s commitment to the Caribbean islands it visits regularly.