Seatrade Cruise News is part of the Informa Markets Division of Informa PLC

This site is operated by a business or businesses owned by Informa PLC and all copyright resides with them. Informa PLC's registered office is 5 Howick Place, London SW1P 1WG. Registered in England and Wales. Number 8860726.

Lines monitor France port calls due to strikes, US travel advisory

5374b2b571a735bf6b83f1d39d4dd0ae_XL
Harmony of the Seas skipped Marseille on Tuesday due to a national strike in France (Photo: Anne Kalosh)
Strikes in France on top of crowds and reported rowdiness associated with the European Football Championship have cruise operators closely monitoring the situation. There have been periodic general strikes and work stoppages by Air France and the national railway.

Also, a State Department travel alert issued May 31 cautioned US citizens of the risk of potential terrorist attacks throughout Europe targeting tourist sites, restaurants, commercial centers, transportation and major events, specifically mentioning Euro Cup 2016. The football championships are taking place through July 10 at 10 venues in France, including Marseille.

Earlier this week, Royal Caribbean International's Harmony of the Seas dropped Marseille due to a national strike.

'We felt it would impact our guests' experience in port. We are continuing to monitor the situation, but have not made any additional itinerary changes at this time,' a Royal Caribbean spokeswoman said. Harmony's next call at Marseille is scheduled for June 21.

At Norwegian Cruise Line, all ships are currently sailing as scheduled. 'We will continue to closely monitor the situation and can make future itinerary adjustments as appropriate,' a Norwegian spokeswoman said.

And Carnival Cruise Line, whose Carnival Vista is sailing its inaugural Mediterranean season, told Seatrade Cruise News it is 'keeping in close contact with our partners in Marseille and advising guests as we learn of any potential strike activity that could impact their experience. We also remind our guests routinely about safety precautions when visiting ports of call,' Carnival added.

At this time, all of Carnival Vista's upcoming calls in Marseille remain as scheduled.