Norwegian Getaway Can't Get Away And Remains Docked in New York Due to Nor’easter

As a powerful Nor’easter continues to impact the U.S. East Coast from Delaware to Maine, several cruise ships have been forced to delay their departures — including Norwegian Getaway, which remains docked in New York City due to severe weather and port restrictions.

Immediate Impacts on Cruise Ships (as of October 12, 2025)

The Sandy Hook Pilots, who guide vessels safely in and out of New York Harbor, have suspended pilotage services due to strong winds, heavy rain, and rough seas brought on by the Nor’easter.

They announced that no ships will be sailing or docking until at least 11 a.m. on October 14, impacting multiple cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean.

Norwegian Getaway, which was scheduled to depart New York on Sunday, October 12, for a 7-night New England & Canada itinerary, has been delayed as a result.

In a letter to guests, Norwegian Cruise Line explained:

“A Nor’easter is forecasted to impact the region beginning Sunday afternoon, bringing strong winds and rough seas. As a precautionary measure, local authorities have suspended pilotage services in New York — a necessary step to ensure safe navigation in and out of the port.”

With pilot services paused, Norwegian Getaway was unable to sail on Sunday evening as planned. The ship will remain overnight in New York, with a tentative departure now scheduled for Monday, October 13, depending on when conditions improve and pilotage resumes.

Revised Itinerary

Because of the delay, Norwegian Getaway’s calls to Newport, Rhode Island (October 13) and Boston, Massachusetts (October 14) have been canceled.

The revised schedule now begins with a sea day on Tuesday, as the ship sails north toward Bar Harbor, Maine, followed by calls at Saint John, New Brunswick (October 16) and Halifax, Nova Scotia (October 17). The ship is still expected to return to New York on Sunday, October 19, as originally planned.

All shore excursions booked through Norwegian Cruise Line for Newport and Boston will be automatically canceled and refunded to guests’ onboard accounts.

Guests Staying Onboard Overnight

Passengers on Norwegian Getaway are currently staying overnight onboard in New York, with the ship remaining fully operational. All dining venues, entertainment, and onboard amenities are open, though outdoor activities may be limited due to the weather.

Guests have reported calm conditions inside the ship, with crew keeping spirits high and activities continuing as normal while everyone waits for the storm to pass.

Other Cruise Ships Impacted

Norwegian Getaway isn’t alone in facing disruptions.

• Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas, scheduled to depart Bayonne, New Jersey, on Sunday, is also remaining docked overnight at Cape Liberty due to the same suspension of pilotage services.

• The ship’s 7-night Bahamas itinerary may see adjustments depending on how long the closure lasts.

• Meanwhile, Carnival Sunshine is experiencing delays returning to Norfolk, Virginia, and will now depart a day later than planned — transforming its 6-night Bermuda sailing into a 5-night cruise.

Safety First

While these changes may disappoint guests eager to set sail, safety remains the top priority for all cruise lines. Navigating through high winds and rough seas in congested ports like New York Harbor poses serious risks, and the decision to delay departures ensures the wellbeing of passengers and crew.

Once weather conditions improve and authorities lift restrictions, Norwegian Getaway and other impacted ships are expected to continue their voyages safely northward — albeit on revised itineraries.