Thousands of UK cruise passengers saw their Caribbean holidays upended this weekend after sudden US air strikes on Venezuela triggered temporary airspace restrictions across the region.
Three TUI Airways flights chartered by P&O Cruises for Arvia sailings were forced to turn back mid‑Atlantic, with further services cancelled before departure. P&O says most guests have now reached Barbados, with remaining passengers due to arrive Monday, as the line works to rebook 5,000 travellers on new flights.
The FAA restrictions also caused delays at key cruise ports including Bridgetown and San Juan, leaving ships adjusting itineraries. Virgin Voyages’ Valiant Lady has dropped Aruba and Curaçao in favour of Barbados and St Lucia, while Norwegian and Princess Cruises delayed departures from San Juan, prompting further schedule changes.
The UK Foreign Office has advised against all travel to Venezuela and warned travellers to expect ongoing disruption in Barbados as airlines and cruise lines reschedule services.