Royal Caribbean International has cancelled a cruise on the Rhapsody of the Seas because one of the ship’s lifeboats was damaged.

The cruise was supposed to depart from Puerto Rico on 15 September 2024, but it was called off to ensure everyone’s safety.
The lifeboat, which is also used as a tender boat to transport passengers to shore, was damaged on a previous trip, so the ship can’t meet safety regulations.
Royal Caribbean promptly informed passengers about the cancellation. They are providing a full refund and a Future Cruise Credit (FCC) equal to the original cost. This credit can be used for another cruise at a later date.
The company will also reimburse non-refundable travel expenses, such as flights or train tickets, up to $200 per person for changes within the country and $400 for international changes.
The Rhapsody of the Seas was scheduled for a seven-night trip through the Southern Caribbean, stopping in destinations such as Puerto Rico, St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and Barbados.
Obviously it’s an awful experience having a cruise cancelled at such short notice before it sets sail, but cruise lines can’t take risks with guests’ safety.
The fact that guests will get a refund, as well as Future Cruise Credit to essentially give them a free cruise in future, hopefully mitigates the disappointment.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Royal Caribbean offers…
Related posts
- Cruise Ships DO NOT Have Enough Lifeboats! (But Here’s Why It’s OK)
- Cruise Myths Debunked
- Rhapsody of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Celebrity Cruises Unveils ‘The Bazaar’ on Celebrity Xcel, Blurring the Line Between Ship and Shore
Celebrity Cruises has announced an exciting new concept for its upcoming ship, Celebrity Xcel, with the introduction of ‘The Bazaar’. This will be a multi-level, ever-evolving space designed to immerse…
Will This Next Cruise Ship Energy Innovation Spoil A Key Feature Of Your Stateroom?
As the cruise industry continues its push toward sustainability and energy efficiency, a team of engineers has introduced a new solar energy system that could help cruise lines reduce their…
Ballerina Performs Stunning Dance on the Bow of a Cruise Ship in Antarctica
Dancing on pointe is challenging enough on a warm, well-lit stage, but French ballerina Victoria Dauberville took it to an entirely new level – performing on the bow of a…
Free Cruise Holiday Backfires As Passenger Shocked By $47,000 Bill For Flu Treatment
A Minnesota man is facing a staggering $47,000 medical bill after seeking flu treatment aboard Norwegian Encore, a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship, during a weeklong Caribbean cruise. Mike Cameron…