Ships & Fleet Caribbean Royal Caribbean

Storm Austen Forces Three Cruise Ships Into Southampton Early

Key Aspects: P&O Cruises’ Arvia and MSC Cruises’ MSC Preziosa and MSC Virtuosa will all arrive in Southampton, UK, earlier than planned due to Storm Austen.

Cruise Hive
Royal Caribbean — Storm Austen Forces Three Cruise Ships Into Southampton Early

Why Now

The three ships will all arrive late Thursday evening, October 22, instead of on Friday and, in the case of MSC Virtuosa, Saturday, as originally planned.

Key Highlights

  • From Royal Caribbean
  • Destination: Caribbean
  • New ship or fleet announcement

Royal Caribbean has announced new developments that are relevant to travelers planning a Caribbean cruise. Key Aspects: P&O Cruises’ Arvia and MSC Cruises’ MSC Preziosa and MSC Virtuosa will all arrive in Southampton, UK, earlier than planned due to Storm Austen.

Key Aspects: P&O Cruises’ Arvia and MSC Cruises’ MSC Preziosa and MSC Virtuosa will all arrive in Southampton, UK, earlier than planned due to Storm Austen. The three ships will all arrive late Thursday evening, October 22, instead of on Friday and, in the case of MSC Virtuosa, Saturday, as originally planned. Alerts have already been issued for the southern UK and coastal areas for strong wind gusts up to 50-70 miles per hour on Friday, October 23. Thousands of cruise guests on three ships have now had their itineraries altered as they head for Southampton, UK ahead of Storm Austen. P&O Cruises’ Arvia as well as MSC Cruises’ MSC Preziosa and MSC Virtuosa have all adjusted their routes and arrivals for Southampton to stay ahead of the storm’s worst impact. The Associated British Ports schedule for Southampton confirms the early arrivals for the three vessels, which are now expected into Southampton late Thursday evening, October 22, 2026.

New ships represent significant investments in passenger experience, typically featuring updated dining venues, entertainment options, and cabin configurations. Travelers interested in sailing on newer vessels should check availability early, as inaugural sailings often book quickly.

*Source: Cruise Hive. This article is based on an official announcement. Visit the cruise line's official website for complete details, current pricing, and booking information.*

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Source: Cruise Hive