• The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has physically prevented cruise ships from exiting the Persian Gulf.
• Multiple cruise lines have cancelled all departures scheduled for early March 2026 due to regional volatility.
• A missile strike near a docked vessel in Abu Dhabi prompted emergency safety protocols for passengers and crew.
• Stranded ships are currently rationing or stockpiling essential supplies to prepare for extended periods in port

The escalation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East following military actions on February 28, 2026, has left several cruise ships and thousands of passengers stranded in the Persian Gulf. As of March 1, 2026, at least six vessels from multiple cruise lines are unable to leave their current ports due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the high risk of retaliatory attacks. The situation is further complicated by the suspension of operations at regional airports, making it currently unsafe for international travelers to fly home.

MSC Cruises has halted the MSC Euribia in Dubai, cancelling its scheduled March 1 departure from Doha. While guests are permitted to go ashore, they have been advised to remain within the immediate vicinity of the cruise terminal. Similarly, Celestyal Cruises has instructed Celestyal Journey to remain in Doha until at least March 7, while Celestyal Discovery is being held in Dubai under local authority instructions that currently prohibit passenger disembarkation.

TUI Cruises has faced significant operational challenges with two impacted ships. Mein Schiff 4 was in Abu Dhabi and Mein Schiff 5 in Doha when the conflict intensified. Passengers on these vessels were initially instructed to shelter indoors and stay away from windows for safety. On March 1, a missile strike in Port Zayed, Abu Dhabi, caused a brief emergency aboard Mein Schiff 4, during which passengers were mustered in the ship’s theater. While operations have resumed, the crew is currently stockpiling at least a week’s worth of essential supplies, including medications and infant care items, in anticipation of a prolonged stay.

Aroya Cruises’ vessel, Aroya Manara, is also hunkered down in Dubai alongside other impacted ships. Across all affected lines, upcoming sailings for early March have been officially cancelled. Cruise operators are maintaining constant communication with maritime authorities and the security departments of their parent companies. Most lines have established family hotlines and promised full refunds or future cruise credits to those on cancelled voyages. The industry remains in a “wait-and-see” posture, with further itinerary changes expected as the regional security environment evolves.