cruise ship rough seas inside

Stay in the Loop: The latest cruise DEALS & NEWS delivered to your inbox - Click Here!

CruiseOverload

The 8 Roughest Seas For Cruise Ships (RANKED!)

Going on a cruise is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation, a chance to explore the world from the decks of luxury.

However, traveling by sea comes with unpredictable moods and the possibility of rough seas. Modern cruise ships are engineered to withstand rough conditions, but knowing which seas are notoriously turbulent can help in planning your journey.

For those that are prone to seasickness or nervous about a rough voyage, there are certain seas they may want to avoid.

From the swirling currents of the North Atlantic to the icy gusts of the Southern Ocean, we’ll guide you through the roughest seas that even experienced cruise ships respect…

Table of Contents

Roughest Seas For Cruise Ships

The Drake Passage

If you’re looking to cross off all seven continents, you’ll have to board an expedition ship to step foot on Antarctica, as mainstream cruise lines only traverse through the Drake Passage.

The Drake Passage is one of the roughest seas in the world, and it’s located between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands.

It’s the shortest crossing between Antarctica and the rest of the world, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The area has no large landmasses, so there is a large, unimpeded flow of current that carries a huge volume of water through the passage.

When these strong currents meet high wind speeds, the result is a sea state that is notoriously rough. This combination of factors contributes to conditions where it is quite likely for passengers to encounter rough seas in this area.

These challenging conditions are a defining characteristic of Cape Horn, making it one of the most hostile waters for sea travel.

The Bay of Biscay

If you plan to take a European cruise, you should approach the Bay of Biscay with caution.

The Bay of Biscay is located off the west coast of France and the north of Spain.

The Bay of Biscay is home to parts of the continental shelf that extend far into the bay, resulting in some shallow waters.

This is an area that experiences the fiercest Atlantic weather, and the combination of powerful winds and a shallow seabed can produce large waves.

Traveling during the summer months can significantly enhance your chances of encountering smoother seas.

On the other hand, opting for a late spring journey may bring you face-to-face with the unique “June Gloom” phenomenon. This is characterized by a vast fog triangle that often envelops the southern part of the bay.

This seasonal atmospheric condition, most prevalent in June, results in a dense fog that adds a mystical ambiance to the area, though it doesn’t typically affect sea conditions significantly.

Cruises that often sail through the Bay of Biscay include those sailing from Southampton to Portugal and Spain. Transatlantic voyages that begin in the UK and Northern Europe will often sail south and visit the Azores before beginning to cross the ocean, too.

When cruising through the Bay of Biscay, be prepared for rough seas and pack accordingly. It is recommended to bring motion sickness medication and warm clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable.

The Gulf of Alaska

If you’re heading on a cruise around Alaska, you will be pleased to hear that most of the cruise will be spent on the beautiful calm waters of the Inside Passage, where a string of islands will provide shelter and a high chance of smooth sailing.

But, if you are heading for ports at Seward, Whittier, or Anchorage, you will have to cross the Gulf of Alaska.

These waters are much rougher than the protected waters of the Inside Passage due to strong surface currents and cold air.

This is a much rougher area where strong surface currents and cold arctic air meet to generate powerful storms that affect British Columbia and the western U.S. Storms can happen at any time, but the worst time is between October and February.

Note: the vast majority of Alaska cruises take place within the sheltered waters of the Inside Passage. If you want to avoid cruising through the Gulf of Alaska, consider a round-trip cruise from Seattle.

However, cruises that do traverse through the Gulf of Alaska tend to visit more remote parts of Alaska, providing a unique and adventurous experience.

The Atlantic Ocean

Whenever you cross a large body of water, you’re more likely to encounter some rough waves since there’s no land nearby to provide any protection.

The Atlantic Ocean is no exception. Transatlantic cruises tend to see their roughest waters in November, December, and February.

If you’re going to embark on a transatlantic cruise in the winter, it’ll most likely be on either a luxury cruise line like Oceania or Cunard from New York to Southampton and vice versa.

While the winter months are the most intense, it’s important to note that other times of the year can also be impacted, particularly during hurricane season.

It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare accordingly.

If you’re concerned about rough waters, it’s best to stick to more protected areas of the Atlantic, such as the Caribbean or Mediterranean, where the waters are generally calmer.

The Mediterranean

If you’re looking to stay in the Mediterranean and visit culturally rich ports of call like Barcelona, Rome, Naples, then you’re in luck.

While the sea itself is relatively sheltered, It can be surprisingly rough, subject to rough waters in the fall and winter, as this is when the winds are the strongest.

Rough seas can happen at any time, though, and spring and summer cruise passengers might experience some rough seas.

Cruises in the Western Mediterranean, often embarking from ports like Barcelona or Rome, might encounter a unique weather phenomenon known as a “medicane.” This term, a blend of “Mediterranean” and “hurricane,” describes a rare but intense storm that shares characteristics with hurricanes and can impact this region.

These medicanes, though not as common as typical hurricanes, can still significantly influence sea conditions and cruise experiences in the Western Mediterranean.

This is a tropical storm that usually hits the region about once a year, most commonly in the autumn.

The Caribbean

The allure of the Caribbean as a cruising hotspot is undeniable, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and inviting tropical cocktails. It’s a destination that appeals all year round, offering a blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

Yet, it’s important to note that the region does experience its share of stormy weather, particularly during the hurricane season, which spans from June to November.

The likelihood of encountering hurricanes and tropical storms is highest from August to September.

If the idea of navigating through larger waves or facing potential changes in your cruise itinerary is less appealing, it might be wise to plan your trip outside these months.

Additionally, in the Caribbean, where different bodies of water converge, such as the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, there’s an increased likelihood of encountering rough seas, especially during the storm-prone months.

The South China Sea

If you’re planning on taking an Asian cruise, you may be curious about the South China Sea.

This region is becoming increasingly popular for mainstream cruise lines, with Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both increasing their presence in Asia.

This area, part of the northwest Pacific Ocean, is known for its susceptibility to storms throughout the year, potentially leading to rough sea conditions.

Tropical typhoons and cyclones, most prevalent during the tropical storm season from July to November, are the primary causes of the biggest waves in this region. Storm activity tends to peak around late August and early September.

Key departure ports for cruises traversing this area include Singapore, along with other popular ports like Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, and Bangkok. Routes connecting China to destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, or the Philippines are particularly prone to typhoons, which can result in a turbulent journey and possible changes to port stops.

On top of this, the South China Sea encompasses a region known as “The Dangerous Ground.” This area is infamous for its hidden dangers, including low-lying islands and submerged reefs that can emerge unexpectedly from the depths.

Due to its complex geography and historical territorial disputes, this zone is typically avoided in Asian cruise itineraries, regardless of the starting port. This precaution is taken to ensure a safer and smoother cruising experience in the often unpredictable waters of the South China Sea.

The North Sea

If you’re planning a cruise to North Europe, the British Isles, or even Iceland, you’ll likely have to pass through the North Sea.

Sailing through the North Sea can be quite challenging due to its susceptibility to high winds and waves, which often result in rough waters and thick fogs.

Traveling through the North Sea, especially from ports like Southampton to destinations such as Edinburgh, cruisers may encounter rough conditions.

The waters here can get particularly choppy, causing ships to experience significant rocking, akin to the sensations of a roller coaster.

While modern cruise ships are designed to handle these rough seas, passengers should be prepared for potential changes in their itineraries.

What Is Considered Rough Seas For A Cruise Ship?

Rough seas for a cruise ship are typically characterized by high winds and significant wave heights, which can lead to noticeable ship movement and discomfort for passengers.

Generally, waves exceeding 7-8 feet (about 2-2.5 meters) are considered rough, but modern cruise ships are designed to handle much higher waves safely.

The Beaufort Wind Scale, which categorizes wind speed, is often used to gauge sea conditions; rough seas are usually indicated by wind speeds over 17 knots (about 20 mph or 31 km/h).

These conditions can cause a cruise ship to pitch (move up and down) or roll (tilt side to side), leading to a more turbulent experience on board.

The perception of roughness can can vary among passengers, depending on their susceptibility to seasickness and the design and size of the ship. Larger, more modern cruise ships are equipped with stabilizers that significantly reduce the rolling motion, making them more resilient to rough seas.

Despite this, in extremely high seas with waves reaching over 15 feet (4.5 meters) or in the case of severe storms, even large ships might experience noticeable movement.

Cruise lines closely monitor weather conditions and may alter itineraries to avoid rough seas for passenger comfort and safety.

What Time Of Year Are Seas The Roughest?

The roughest seas typically occur during the transition between seasons, particularly in regions prone to cyclones or hurricanes.

In the Atlantic and Caribbean, for instance, the hurricane season peaks from August to October, bringing turbulent seas with higher risks of storms and rough conditions.

Similarly, in the Pacific, typhoon season, which typically lasts from May to October, can lead to rough seas, especially around Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific.

In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere experiences its roughest seas during its winter months, from June to August. This is especially true in areas like the Southern Ocean, where cruises to destinations like Antarctica are affected.

The Drake Passage, known for some of the world’s most challenging sailing conditions, sees its roughest waters during this period.

On top of this, areas like the North Sea and the Mediterranean can also experience rougher conditions during the winter months.

Are Cruise Ships Safe in Rough Seas?

Yes, cruise ships are safe in rough seas. They are designed to withstand waves up to 15 feet high, and they have stabilizers to reduce the amount of rocking felt onboard. However, you may still feel the motion of the waves, especially if they are particularly large.

If the captain deems it necessary, they may order passengers to stay indoors. It is also a good idea to stay seated and take medication for motion sickness if necessary.

In extreme weather conditions, such as encountering 30-foot waves, cruise ships like the Anthem of the Seas have successfully navigated through with no major issues or injuries to passengers or crew.

Are Seas Rough in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean, renowned for its typically calm cruising conditions, does encounter rougher seas under certain circumstances.

The Atlantic hurricane season, spanning from June to November, presents the highest likelihood of experiencing turbulent waters in the Caribbean, particularly in zones where the Caribbean Sea converges with the Atlantic Ocean.

Despite these seasonal challenges, major cruise lines continue to operate numerous voyages to the Caribbean throughout the hurricane season.

They often modify their sailing routes to circumvent the most severe storms, which means that cruise itineraries may be more prone to alterations during these months.

Are Seas Rough On A Transatlantic Cruise?

Seas on a transatlantic cruise can indeed be rough at times, primarily due to the vast and open nature of the Atlantic Ocean. The experience of rough seas on such a cruise largely depends on the time of year and the specific route taken.

For example, during the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November, there’s a higher chance of encountering rougher seas, particularly in the North Atlantic. This is due to the increased likelihood of storms and turbulent weather patterns.

Are Seas Rough Around Japan?

The seas around Japan can be rough at certain times of the year, influenced by the region’s specific climatic conditions. The most significant factor is the typhoon season, which typically runs from May to October.

During this period, the waters around Japan can become particularly turbulent due to the increased likelihood of typhoons and storms.

These weather events can lead to high waves and strong winds, creating challenging conditions for sea travel.

Are The Seas Rough Around Cape Horn?

The seas around Cape Horn, located at the southern tip of South America, are notorious for being some of the roughest in the world.

This reputation is largely due to the confluence of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in this region, combined with strong winds, large waves, and unpredictable weather patterns.

The area is known for its challenging sailing conditions, characterized by what sailors call the “Roaring Forties” and “Furious Fifties” — strong westerly winds found in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly between the latitudes of 40 and 50 degrees.

Similar Posts

How To Know If You Will Get Seasick On A Cruise (& PREVENT IT!)

Calling All Sci-Fi Lovers: 8 Futuristic Features We Want On Our Next Cruise

Which Cruise Lines Allow You To Bring Alcohol Onboard

Do Cruise Ships Have Jails? (& What Happens If You Break The Law On-Board)

14 Smallest Cruise Ships in The World You Have To Sea (lol)

13 Best Cruise Destinations: Sailing the Dream Bucket List

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How Cruise Lines Handle Storms, Fog, Bomb Cyclones, and More

Water sloshing across the deck, waves lapping at cabin windows, furniture flying, dishes smashing. We’ve all seen terrifying videos of what happens when a cruise ship gets caught in a major storm. But the toughest reality might be this: generally, it looks worse than it is. Though we can’t control Mother Nature, when bad weather strikes, cruise lines are prepared. Want to know their strategies—how they handle it, and what that means for when you cruise? We talked to the cruise lines directly to find out.

Ships are made for moving

When in the throes of a storm—whether in a plane, a car, or a ship—it’s easy to get nervous about the turbulence and forget that today’s methods of transportation are fairly capable of enduring bouts of bad weather. “Ships can go through rough seas,” says captain Ben Lyons, who helmed small ships for Lindblad Expeditions for years, and is now CEO of Expedition Voyage Consultants, which advises cruise lines on best practices for planning and executing expedition sailings. “It’s more uncomfortable for the guests, but ships can take it.”

Cruise ships are made of heavy steel that’s even heavier with a full load of passengers and crew onboard. With all that weight, they can roll with the waves. In the roughest seas a ship may list, or tilt to one side, but even that’s unlikely—shipbuilders test things such as buoyancy and center of gravity during construction, which includes putting scale models of ships through all sorts of storm simulations. In short, those ships are built to handle storms, even in hurricane season.

Monitoring the weather

Take heed, budding armchair meteorologists: Modern cruise ships have the latest and greatest weather forecasting equipment—far beyond what you can look up on your phone. The bridge (the command center where the captain works) has an entire arsenal of weather maps, satellite images of storms, even computer models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and third-party meteorologists. The crew and officers monitor it all constantly.

Safety is a priority for all cruise lines, and even with these on-ship set-ups, many companies add additional layers of precaution. In January 2017, Royal Caribbean hired James Van Fleet as the first-in-the-industry dedicated cruise line meteorologist; he previously worked as a TV meteorologist for more than 20 years. During the hurricane and typhoon season, which is June to November, he’s in the Miami headquarters monitoring a 25-foot wall of weather screens and sharing information with the company’s 26 ships and the executive team.

In most cases, he says, he can see storms seven to 10 days out, and advise ships on avoidance strategies. “I know what the models are suggesting, and they [the crews] are getting the word sooner so they don’t have to scramble,” Van Fleet says. “If there is a typhoon in the western Pacific and we may need to reroute a couple of ships, I can be talking to them two or three times a day.”

Carnival Cruise Line , meanwhile, monitors weather from a multi-million-dollar command center that it opened last year. “One of the many ways that we keep our guests, crew, and vessels safe is through our new state-of-the-art Fleet Operations Center (FOC) at our Miami headquarters,” says Lars Ljoen, executive vice president of marine operations for Carnival Cruise Line.

The first facility of its kind in Southern Florida, the 35,000-square-foot operations center is staffed 24/7 and has a 74-foot-long video wall with 57 LED screens that shows the status of all the line’s 27 ships, including weather, itinerary, and safety updates—some captured by a software called Argos, a management tool developed in-house.

“During hurricane season, our Fleet Operations Center is an invaluable tool as it provides a comprehensive, at-a-glance look at the exact locations of our ships, allowing us to closely monitor their position in relation to the path of the storm and ultimately deploy vessels elsewhere,” says its director, John Rowley.

When to reroute a ship

Cruise ships tend to stick to destinations where they can avoid bad weather, such as the Caribbean in winter and Alaska’s inside passage and the Mediterranean in summer, but there are exceptions: cruising in the Caribbean in summer when the kids are out of school has become popular for families, for example, even though it’s during hurricane season. At any time of year, too, the weather can be unpredictable.

When seas get rough, modern cruise ships have onboard technology that helps stabilize them. But if it looks like a more serious storm is in their path, cruise ships generally try to outrun or avoid them.

“We’ve steered our ships around typhoons, hurricanes, fog, massive storms with rapid intensification—which gets the term ‘bomb cyclones,’” Van Fleet says. “But we’ve moved. If you are on our ship and there’s a hurricane out there, I can move you. I can get you to better weather,” he adds, noting that land-based hotels and resorts don’t have that option.

There are situations where a ship may have no choice other than encountering some weather, such as during a North Atlantic crossing in the fall. But even in these cases ships try to find the calmest patch of sea. If adverse weather is unavoidable, the cruise line may change your itinerary , possibly switching your Bermuda cruise with one along the coast of New England and Canada, or shortening or lengthening your cruise by a day or two.

Those decisions are made collaboratively with captains, with guest comfort in mind, Van Fleet says. For instance, to avoid heavy rain, he might suggest a ship stay at sea and arrive at a port a few hours later than planned. By contrast, a port may be skipped altogether if seas are too rough—especially if the port doesn’t have a deep-water dock, meaning passengers have to board tenders, or small boats to get to shore, which is a difficult and dangerous operation in windy conditions.

In those cases, the ship may dock at an alternative port, possibly one you didn’t expect to visit; change the order of the ports that are on the itinerary; or seek a sunny spot at sea. Cruise lines are adept at handling these situations and outline this possibility for guests, along with their policies for how they handle them. If this happens to you, talk to the cruise line directly about refunds or other means of recompense—especially if your ship’s return to its homeport needs to be delayed and affects your flights home.

What to expect if your ship hits bad weather

If you’re already on a ship and meet rough conditions, listen to the instructions of the captain and crew. It’s common for the crew to put down non-slip mats and add signage reminding you to exercise caution when walking. Van Fleet says part of his job is communicating with the crew when such procedures may be necessary.

Every day, listen to the captain’s report from the bridge, which includes a description of sea conditions, to decide what preparations you may need to make for the day. If you get seasick , be prepared with over-the-counter motion sickness medications, homeopathic remedies, or a prescription patch from your doctor.

Note that attractions such as the pool and waterslides may shut down, or the outdoor decks may be closed altogether. In very rare situations, the Captain may require all passengers stay in their cabins. In general, you’ll likely feel some rolling—but that goes for the entirety of your trip, too. “You’re on a ship on the ocean; you’re signing on for some movement,” Van Fleet says. “But my job is to make sure it’s an acceptable, safe amount that you can enjoy your vacation with.”

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

World’s Roughest Seas For Cruise Ship: How Rough Waters Impact Cruise Itineraries

Roughest Seas for Cruise Ships: We’ll examine some of the world’s toughest seas that cruise ships navigate, as there has been a lot of discussion regarding how rough seas affect cruise itineraries.

This will not only highlight the many difficulties these waters provide, but we’ll also go over some useful advice for preventing a bad trip on choppy waves.

Cruises provide travellers with the chance to engage in a very special kind of adventure, even though most people only think of them as opportunities for rest and pleasure. You have the option to reserve a vacation to a distinctive place and also get to spend time at sea.

Though there is undoubtedly excitement in this, not every sea in the world has the same conditions. Not only can sea conditions vary from calm to quite rough, but latitude also naturally affects water temperatures and climates.

Now let’s examine the world’s most hazardous oceans!

What Does A Cruise Ship Consider to Be Rough Seas?

High winds and large wave heights are typical indicators of rough seas for a cruise ship, which can cause considerable ship movement and discomfort for guests.

Though waves above 7-8 feet (about 2-2.5 meters) are often regarded as rough, contemporary cruise ships are built to safely handle even larger waves.

According to the Beaufort Wind Scale, which classifies wind speed, wind speeds over 17 knots, or roughly 20 mph or 31 km/h, are typically indicative of rough seas.

A cruise ship may pitch (move up and down) or roll (tilt side to side) due to these conditions, making the experience on board more erratic.

Depending on the passengers’ sensitivity to seasickness as well as the ship’s size and construction, the sense of roughness can differ. Modern, larger cruise ships with stabilizers greatly lessen rolling motion, increasing their ability to withstand choppy waves.

However, even massive ships may noticeably move in extremely high seas, with waves as high as fifteen feet (4.5 meters), or during strong storms.

Cruise lines keep a careful eye on the weather and may modify itineraries to avoid choppy waters in order to ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers.

What is Port Services? Understanding the Benefits

Roughest Seas For Cruise Ship

The passage of drake.

Regular cruise lines only travel via the Drake Passage, so if you want to visit every continent on Earth, you’ll need to travel on an expedition ship.

Nestled between Cape Horn and the South Shetland Islands is one of the world’s harshest waters, the Drake Passage.

It is the shortest route that connects the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and separates Antarctica from the rest of the world.

There are no significant landmasses in the area, so the river flows freely and carries a lot of water through the channel.

A sea state that is renowned for its roughness is created when these powerful currents combine with swift wind conditions. Passengers are likely to experience choppy seas in this area due to a mix of contributing factors.

One of the most difficult places to visit by sea is Cape Horn, which is known for its difficult conditions.

The Biscay Bay

A European cruise should be approached cautiously when nearing the Bay of Biscay.

Off the northern coast of Spain and the western coast of France is the Bay of Biscay.

There are sections of the continental shelf that reach deep into the Bay of Biscay, creating some shallow waters.

Large waves can be produced by the combination of strong winds and a shallow seabed in this region, which suffers the harshest Atlantic weather.

Summertime travel can greatly increase the likelihood of experiencing calmer waters.

However, choosing to travel in the late spring may expose you to the unusual “June Gloom” phenomenon. An extensive triangle of fog that frequently covers the southern part of the bay distinguishes this.

This seasonal atmospheric condition, which is most common in June, produces a thick fog that gives the place a mysterious feel, but it usually has little effect on the water.

Cruises from Southampton to Portugal and Spain are among the many that frequently pass through the Bay of Biscay. Before starting their oceanic journey, transatlantic journeys that start in the UK and Northern Europe frequently sail south and stop in the Azores.

Be ready for choppy waves when sailing the Bay of Biscay, and pack appropriately. Because to the variable nature of the weather, it is advised to pack warm clothing and motion sickness medication.

The Alaskan Gulf

You’ll be happy to learn that the majority of an Alaskan cruise will be spent in the stunning, serene waters of the Inside Passage, where a chain of islands will offer shade and a high likelihood of tranquil sailing.

But you will have to cross the Gulf of Alaska if you are going to ports in Whittier, Seward, or Anchorage.

Strong surface currents and chilly air make these seas far rougher than the Inside Passage’s protected waters.

violent surface currents and frigid northern air combine in this location, which is far rougher, to produce violent storms that impact British Columbia and the western United States. Although storms can occur at any moment, the worst months to expect them are October through February.

Note: The Inside Passage’s protected waters are home to the great majority of Alaskan cruises. Take into consideration a round-trip cruise from Seattle if you wish to avoid sailing across the Gulf of Alaska.

Cruises that do cross the Gulf of Alaska, however, typically go to more isolated areas of the state and offer a distinctive and thrilling experience.

The Atlantic Ocean

Since there is no surrounding land to offer protection, you are more likely to run across some rough waves when crossing a large expanse of sea.

This also applies to the Atlantic Ocean. The hardest months for transatlantic voyages are often February, November, and December.

Exploring Florida’s Cruise Ports: Unveiling the Unique Personalities and Adventures Awaiting You

If you want to take a transatlantic cruise in the winter, it will probably be from New York to Southampton and back on a luxury cruise line like Oceania or Cunard.

Although the strongest effects occur in the winter, other periods of the year might also be affected, especially during hurricane season.

It’s a good idea to monitor the weather prediction and make appropriate preparations.

Stick to more protected regions of the Atlantic, like the Caribbean or Mediterranean, where the waters are typically calmer, if you’re worried about choppy waters.

The Mediterranean

You’re in luck if you want to travel across the Mediterranean and stop in cities with a strong cultural heritage like Barcelona, Rome, and Naples.

Even though the sea is mostly protected, the fall and winter months might bring unexpectedly high waves because these are the times of year when the highest winds occur.

However, rough seas can occur at any time, and cruise passengers may encounter some rough seas in the spring and summer.

A “medicane,” a term that combines the words “Mediterranean” and “hurricane,” is a rare but powerful storm that resembles a hurricane and can affect this region. Cruises in the Western Mediterranean, which frequently depart from ports like Barcelona or Rome, may come across this unusual weather phenomenon.

Even though they are less frequent than regular hurricanes, these medicanes have a big impact on the Western Mediterranean’s cruise experiences and sea conditions.

Approximately once a year, usually in the fall, this tropical cyclone makes landfall in the area.

The Caribbean

The gorgeous beaches, glistening waters, and delectable tropical cocktails of the Caribbean make it an irresistible destination for cruisers. Offering a combination of leisure and natural beauty, this location is appealing all year round.

However, it’s crucial to remember that the area does see its fair share of bad weather, especially from June to November when hurricane season occurs.

Hurricanes and tropical storms are most likely to occur between August and September.

It can be a good idea to schedule your vacation for a time other than these if you find the thought of negotiating bigger waves or possibly having your cruise agenda altered tolerable.

Additionally, there’s a higher chance of experiencing choppy waves in the Caribbean, particularly during the stormy months, due to the convergence of many bodies of water, such as the meeting point of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean.

The South China Sea

An essential sea route for excursions throughout Southeast Asia is the South China Sea, which links the Pacific and Indian Oceans. Cruise ships and other large vessels may encounter considerable difficulties in the South China Sea, even though cruise ships frequently travel there. And this is on top of territorial conflicts over one of the world’s harshest waters.

This is partly because the area is vulnerable to strong tropical storms, monsoons, cyclones, typhoons, and other severe storms, particularly from July to November. Cruise ships that are planned to pass through this significant Pacific Ocean region may experience significant delays and interruptions due to the unpredictability and harshness of the weather.

The North Sea’s rough waters

The icy waters can become extremely turbulent when there are strong gusts, which happen frequently. In order to ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers, cruise ship navigation teams must closely monitor weather conditions; nonetheless, stormy waters may occasionally be inevitable.

This helps to explain why the North Sea is known for being somewhat turbulent. Crews will occasionally even suggest that passengers remain inside the ship.

One such instance of this happened in 2018, when the famous MS Marco Polo was sailing from the Netherlands to Norway when it was trapped in severe weather, with strong waves and swells. The crew of the ship responded by sounding sirens and ordering people inside.

When Are The Roughest Seas of the Year?

The season change is usually when the seas are the roughest, especially in areas that are vulnerable to hurricanes or cyclones.

For example, the hurricane season in the Atlantic and Caribbean peaks in August and lasts through October, bringing with it stormy seas and increased storm dangers.

Similar to this, typhoon season in the Pacific, which normally runs from May to October, can cause choppy waters, particularly in the Western Pacific and Southeast Asia.

In contrast, the winter months of June through August are when the Southern Hemisphere encounters its roughest waves. This is particularly true in regions such as the Southern Ocean, which has an impact on cruises to places like Antarctica.

The Drake Passage, which offers some of the most difficult sailing conditions globally, experiences the roughest waters during this time of year.

In addition, regions such as the North Sea and the Mediterranean may have more abrasive weather in the wintertime.

How Can a Cruise Vacation Prevent Severe Seas?

After looking at some of the world’s roughest waters, we would like to share some advice with you to assist you avoid feeling the up-and-down and side-to-side motion that comes with cruising in choppy waters.

Discover the 7 Best Spots on a Cruise Ship for a Peaceful Escape

Plan Your Cruise for the Appropriate Season

The roughest waves occur at different times of the year in each region. We advise completing your homework and making your reservations during the most advantageous months if you want to have a pleasant sailing experience.

Steer clear of hurricane season, and make sure you’ve done your homework on the place you intend to visit. Keep in mind that reservations made during these calmer months may be more costly, but if you are anxious about traveling in choppy waters, it may be a price worth making.

Be Ready for Motion Sickness

This advice can help you get ready for severe weather and choppy seas, but it won’t help you avoid them. Conditions can change fast, as anyone who spends any amount of time on the water will attest, so you should be prepared for the unexpected.

Take the initiative and prepare the necessary remedies in advance. Having them when you need them will make you happy!

Be Adaptable When Making Plans

While it’s always good to schedule your cruise around a special occasion, the more set in stone your dates and locations are, the more likely it is that you’ll find yourself sailing during the roughest parts of the sea.

Related Posts

Best time to book a Cruise

Cruise Ship Salaries: A Comprehensive Analysis

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hurricane Beryl causes cruise ships to adjust itineraries

Beryl was the easternmost hurricane to form in the atlantic basin in june and the earliest category 5 on record. the hurricane made landfall in carriacou, grenada, on july 1 as a powerful category 4 cyclone..

FOX Weather Hurricane Specialist Bryan Norcross: Texas should not let its guard down

Hurricane Beryl continues to barrel across the Caribbean but is forecast to weaken over the next 72 hours.

As Hurricane Beryl barrels through the Caribbean, popular cruise lines have been forced to alter their itineraries to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.

Cruise ships from Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Disney have all adjusted their Caribbean stops due to potential impacts from the storm. 

Record-warm waters, combined with atmospheric conditions, allowed the cyclone to strengthen into a Category 5 hurricane – the earliest ever recorded in the Atlantic basin.

Due to the storm’s severity, port stops in popular tourist destinations such as Jamaica, the Cayman Islands and the Yucatán have been altered. 

Carnival has announced that its Horizon ship will visit Nassau in the Bahamas instead of Cozumel, Mexico, and Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands.

Meanwhile, the Liberty has rescheduled its stop in Cozumel to maintain its distance from the storm.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas were all initially scheduled to stop at various locations within the impact zone but have since modified their itineraries.

And Disney’s popular Fantasy ship is no longer expected to stop in Jamaica during its 7-night excursion of the Caribbean and southwest Atlantic.

None of the cruise lines have canceled voyages – just simply have altered dates and destinations.

Hurricane Beryl broken records

(FOX Weather)

DON’T PACK IT QUITS: HOW HURRICANES IMPACT YOUR CRUISE ITINERARY

"Some of these destinations in the eastern Caribbean or southern Caribbean may be recovering from Hurricane Beryl and not in any position to accept passengers, so a lot of this stuff is still in flux," Stewart Chiron, The Cruise Guy, stated.

The companies use data from both the National Hurricane Center and their own forecasters to determine where to avoid rough seas.

In 2023, the development of a low-pressure system off the coast of the Southeast caught some off-guard, including Carnival’s Sunshine, which was tossed around in rough waves and wind.

The weather caused damage aboard the ship and delayed its return to port, but there were no significant injuries reported.

Saffir Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale and Damage

VACATION TURNS INTO NIGHTMARE FOR A SEATTLE MAN AFTER A ‘ROGUE WAVE’ PARALYZES HIM

Flights to airports such as Montego Bay and Kingston in Jamaica have also been canceled ahead of the worst impacts from Beryl.

The NHC expects the hurricane to weaken as it moves throughout the Caribbean. Beryl could either be a Category 1 hurricane or a tropical storm when it reaches the Yucatán Peninsula.

The FOX Forecast Center said it is still too soon to rule out any direct impacts in the U.S., but the storm is expected to be in a much weaker state than when it affected the Windward Islands.

Drone video from inside Hurricane Beryl

Saildrone Inc. said its uncrewed surface vehicle captured waves heights of 25 feet south of Puerto Rico. Hurricane Beryl was a Category 5, at the time, the strongest any hurricane had been in June.

• South America

More From Forbes

How to avoid seasickness on a cruise vacation.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Rough waters and a risk of motion sickness should be expected on smaller, expedition ships.

Cruising is an exciting and enjoyable way to explore the world. Modern cruise ships are akin to floating resort hotels with major production shows, glittering casinos, water parks, and a multitude of quality dining options.

The vast majority of the millions of people choosing to cruise every year experience smooth sailing. However, cruising in certain parts of the world, or sailing in the shoulder seasons or off-seasons, does increase the risk of poor weather, which could lead to seasickness.

Although modern cruise ships are fitted with stabilizers to counteract the impact of the waves on the vessel, some movement is inevitable when at sea, especially on smaller ships.

For those concerned about motion sickness, there are numerous effective prevention methods. Medications, seasickness patches, and pressure bands are popular options, along with strategic planning before the cruise even begins.

What Causes Seasickness?

Seasickness—as with other forms of motion sickness—is caused by a conflict between the senses. When you're on a ship, your inner ear detects motion due to the waves, but your eyes may see a stable environment, as the cabin will move with you.

According to the National Ocean Service , “agitated by this perceptual incongruity, the brain responds with a cascade of stress-related hormones that can ultimately lead to nausea, vomiting, and vertigo.”

Northern Lights Alert: Beware ‘Head-On’ Aurora Displays, Scientists Say

Nyt ‘strands’ hints, spangram and answers for wednesday, july 10th, microsoft windows deadline—you have 21 days to update your pc.

Understanding these root causes can help in taking proactive measures to prevent and manage seasickness effectively. Factors such as fatigue, anxiety, and poor ventilation can exacerbate the condition.

Never cruised? The National Ocean Service stated that anyone who suffers from motion sickness in cars, plane, or on amusement park rides “may be more susceptible to seasickness while aboard a vessel.”

While some individuals may be more susceptible to seasickness, many find that simple preparations make all the difference. Remember, every person is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, so be open to trying various methods to find the best solution for your cruise.

Before The Cruise

If you’re worried about motion sickness, the planning should start long before you set sail by picking the right ship, itinerary, and cabin.

As a general rule, you’ll feel movement less on bigger ships, but it depends on many factors. Modern cruise ships have stabilizers, and the technology has been retrofitted to many older vessels too. This helps counteract the rolling motion caused by the waves, but stabilizers won’t stop movement completely, especially in very rough waters.

If you have your heart set on sailing the Drake Passage to reach Antarctica, or joining a northern lights cruise to the far north of Norway, some movement should be expected regardless of the size of vessel.

One strategy for avoiding seasickness is to pick an itinerary with few, or no, sea days. For example, Canary Islands cruises departing from the U.K. will feature two or three sea days in both directions. Instead, opt for a fly-cruise.

This will reduce the amount of time you’ll have to enjoy the facilities of the ship, but you’re less likely to feel sick.

Picking the right cabin in advance can also help. On many cruise lines it costs a bit more to choose a specific cabin, but it’s well worth it to avoid being allocated a cabin right at the front or back of the ship, where you’ll feel the movement more.

Think carefully before booking an inside cabin. Although they are the cheapest accommodations and are often well-located low down and in the middle of the ship, the lack of a window can add to any feelings of disorientation.

If you do suffer from motion sickness, this is when to speak to your doctor to see if medications may be appropriate for you.

During The Cruise

Once the cruise is underway, keep an ear out for the captain’s daily announcement. This will often include a weather and ocean forecast for the forthcoming days.

Some frequent cruisers swear by seasickness bands that apply pressure to the wrist. Designed to be worn for the entire cruise, producers of seasickness bands claim they can relieve nausea and prevent vomiting, but the scientific evidence is confusing at best .

Seasickness medicine is a common prevention method used by frequent cruisers. There are several options available, including both patches and oral medications available on prescription and over-the-counter.

One thing most medications have in common is the need to start taking them before significant motion begins. If you wait until the ship starts swaying or even until you start to feel unwell, the majority of motion sickness medication will have little effect.

If the ship starts to get rocky, find a spot towards the middle to sit and watch the horizon to help your brain understand what’s happening.

It’s a good idea to stay hydrated and avoid strong foods, specifically anything spicy, greasy, or with a strong odor, and to avoid or limit your alcohol intake.

Should you start to feel unwell, try to distract yourself with activities such as listening to music, although you should bear in mind that reading could make things worse.

If Seasickness Strikes

A severe bout of seasickness can leave you feeling exhausted and constantly dizzy. Eating can be a challenge, especially if vomiting occurs.

Try to nibble on a bread roll or dry crackers. Ginger biscuits and green apples are also recommended, and staying hydrated is important. Should symptoms persist, call the medical team on the ship.

According to the CDC , motion sickness is more common in young children. However, be aware that some motion sickness medication is not suitable for children. The official CDC advice is to “ask your doctor if you should give your child a test dose before traveling.”

The majority of cruise voyages take place without severe motion and on some of the biggest, newest vessels, guests can feel very little movement at all. With some careful planning and sensible precautions, even those people susceptible to motion sickness should be able to enjoy smooth sailing on a cruise vacation.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

• How to Tie a Tie
• Best Coffee Beans
• How to Shape a Beard
• Best Sweaters for Men
• Most Expensive Cognac
• Monos vs Away Luggage
• Best Luxury Hotel Chains
• Fastest Cars in the World
• Ernest Hemingway Books
• What Does CBD Feel Like?
• Canada Goose Alternatives
• Fastest Motorcycles in the World

Hurricane Beryl forces route changes for Caribbean-bound cruise ships

This is how hurricane beryl is affecting cruising.

Hurricane Beryl is on a path toward the Caribbean , causing several cruise lines to alter routes. The Category 1 storm (74-95 mph winds) made landfall in Texas today with powerful wind and rain causing power outages for thousands. Cruise ships must find a way to steer clear, whether switching course or rescheduling port calls.

By adopting contingency plans, cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian aim to keep passengers safe and avoid ship damage. Here’s what their plans include.

Steering clear of Hurricane Beryl: Each cruise line’s strategy

When you take a cruise, you picture open ocean horizons and sunrise deck walks. Sometimes, Mother Nature has other plans and cruise lines have to adapt. Many ships are changing course with Hurricane Beryl on course for the Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean changed the routes for five ships — Wonder of the Seas, Grandeur of the Seas, Celebrity Beyond, Icon of the Seas ( the biggest cruise ship in the world ), and Harmony of the Seas. This involves making port calls on different days or replacing (or delaying) scheduled visits.

Harmony of the Seas and Grandeur of the Seas plan to visit Cozumel, on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, on different days, avoiding the storm’s projected path. The other ships will replace or delay visits to Roatan, Honduras, and Kralendijk, Bonaire, with stops in Nassau, Bahamas, and Oranjestad, Aruba.

Carnival and Norwegian have similar plans. The Carnival Horizon canceled its scheduled July 3 port visit to Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands. Additionally, its July 4 trip to Cozumel, Mexico was replaced with a trip to Nassau on July 5. The Carnival Liberty rescheduled its July 5 Cozumel trip to Tuesday. 

Norwegian changed plans for two of its ships — Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Breakaway — calling off trips to the Cayman Islands, Belize, Jamaica, and Mexico’s Cozumel and Costa Maya. 

Editors’ Recommendations

• This luxury cruise is perfect for Aston Martin, F1 fans
• 5 most drool-worthy overwater bungalows for a dream Caribbean vacation
• New Mexico road trip itinerary: These 3 incredible routes feature highlights and hidden gems
• Travel tips: Getaway House lets you get off the grid for as long as you want without changing your whole life
• Dreaming of a Caribbean vacation? These are the islands least likely to be affected by hurricane season
• Destinations

There's honestly nothing more relaxing to me than laying beachside, soaked in sunshine, with the sound of waves crashing in the background, but I also want to make the most of the money it takes to achieve a perfectly planned beach vacation. When it comes to vacation planning, simplicity is the name of the game. Long gone are the days of trekking to a travel agency to sit desk-side while a stranger plots and plans a trip for you. Now, the internet holds nearly unlimited access to desirable locales worldwide. When you want to get away, a few taps on a keyboard will get you there. But what about when you want the best of the best on a budget?

Look no further than CheapCaribbean Vacations' latest innovation: the Budget Beach Finder. The new trip planning tool is here to revolutionize how travelers book their next tropical escape, revealing the best travel deals on beach vacations to the Caribbean islands and beyond. Whether you're a spontaneous traveler, a budget-conscious explorer, or simply eager to uncover hidden gems on your next trip without breaking the bank, the Budget Beach Finder has you covered.

From the hotel to the airbnb to the plane — the second we step inside wherever it is we're about to park our body while traveling, we start looking at the cleanliness of things. From checking under the top sheet to seeing what the bathroom situation is like, if it's not cleaner than our own home, we don't want it. But if you're stuck at sea, you really don't want to be stranded on a gross cruise ship where you won't even have the option to leave the unclean conditions. Before you book your next cruise trip, know which ships will offer you pristine conditions so the only thing you'll need to worry about is which activity to do next.

How the rankings ranked For the rankings, there is a CDC-operated program called the Vessel Sanitation Program, or VSP, that checks out eight specific areas of the cruise ships. Think of it like the health inspector for your favorite restaurant making sure you won't get food poisoning or when a retail store gets a visit from a Regional VP to make sure the store looks the way it should. What they look for

Bonaire — Wait, where? Bonaire is the “B” of the ABC Islands that include Aruba and Curaçao. Located on the south side of the Caribbean Sea, Bonaire is a Dutch island that seamlessly blends Dutch traditions with Caribbean culture and wild natural beauty that make this island a remarkably unique diamond in the rough.

If you’ve always wanted to visit the Caribbean but you’ve never really wanted the traditional touristy resort experience, Bonaire island offers you a unique opportunity to escape to a different kind of tropical getaway. Are you ready to get away in a whole new way?

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise news

Horrifying Footage Shows Cruise Ship Battered by 30ft Waves

New footage inside Royal Caribbean ship which ran into high winds and rough seas in the Atlantic last year has emerged.

The video shows a cruise passenger looking out the window as 30ft waves submerged the vessel during the hurricane force storm.

The ship, Anthem of the Seas , carrying more than 4,500 guests and 1,600 crew members, was heading to Port Canaveral in Florida but was forced to turn back and return to New Jersey due to the rough weather. 

It forced frightened passengers into their cabins overnight as their belongings flew about, waves rose as high as 30 feet, and winds howled outside.

In the video that surfaced on Reddit, a passenger is seen leaning against the window saying, 'We're just staying in one place, hoping not to die.'

Four passengers were injured in the storm and the ship was damaged in some of its public areas. 

Hurricane-like conditions caused items inside the ship to fly off shelves and smash into one another as the vessel leaned at least 45 degrees off center in the swells. 

The cruise line provided a full refund to passengers, as well as a discount for a future cruise.  

The trip was originally supposed to be a week-long round-trip from New Jersey to Florida and the Bahamas, but the hurricane-force storm cut the vacation short. 

The National Weather Service's Ocean Prediction Center had issued an alert for a strong storm four days in advance and questions were raised as to why the cruise ship travelled through the treacherous conditions. 

Royal Caribbean said the ship experienced 'extreme wind and sea conditions' that were not expected. 

However it apologized to passengers following the February 7 2016 incident, saying 'we have to do better.' 

But in September that year, Anthem of the Seas was caught up in another extreme storm.

Terrifying footage showed the 1,100ft-long Anthem of the Seas undulating through huge swells and 90mph winds en route to Bermuda as it encountered the tropical storm Hermine.

World's largest cruise ship forced off course by deadly Hurricane Beryl

T he world's largest cruise ship is among at least 10 vessels that have had to change course to avoid the tropical storm ravaging through the Caribbean.

Royal Caribbean's Icons of the Seas, which is currently considered the largest cruise ship, was the first to report that the Category 4 storm forced the captain to change its intinerary to keep passengers safe.

The storm, which broke records as both the earliest Category 4 and Category 5 hurricane, has already killed six people in the eastern Caribbean.

• Hurricane Beryl forcing major cruise line to change itineraries - listed
• Royal Caribbean share the biggest danger facing cruise ships around the world

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean did not specify the exact number of ships impacted but assured guests will be notified directly about itinerary changes.

"The safety of our guests, crew and communities we visit is our top priority," the spokesperson said.

"Along with our Chief Meteorologist, we are closely monitoring the progression of Hurricane Beryl, and are making adjustments to some of our Caribbean sailings for the comfort and safety of our guests and crew."

DON'T MISS...

The unexpected word you never want to hear cruise ship workers say [CRUISE NEWS]

Cruise captain shares unexpected tip to avoid sea sickness [CRUISE NEWS]

Carnival Cruise shares gross reason for 'strict' rule [CRUISE NEWS]

Passengers have taken to social media to share their experiences.

"We left out on Harmony of the Seas this afternoon and they changed our itinerary to avoid the storm," one passenger wrote on Facebook.

"Cruise director said captain and crew will just find some great sunny weather and plan plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy onboard for 3 sea days."

Another user poster: "This is the reason I NEVER cruise during Hurricane season." Hurricane season ranges from June through November in the Atlantic.

• Norwegian Cruise Line

Rough Seas through Inside Passage?

By mksgfly , January 12, 2011 in Norwegian Cruise Line

Recommended Posts

I'm am a first time cruiser going with a large family group on the Star in June to Alaska out of Seattle. I was thinking that being so far inland we probably wouldn't experience many rough seas, but I'm starting to wonder about that. Has anyone been on that particular cruise and experienced real problems with rough seas? We've had some issues with motion sickness in the past. I know about the need to start taking Bonine a day or two before you leave, but does that help if the ship is tossing about? Do I need to worry about it in the Inside Passage? My MIL assurres me that the ship is too big and the stabilization mechanism will prevent any problems.....she's quite the optimist. Thanks!

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

Misunderstood sorry!

islandsinmyblood

Hi, when we cruised the inside passage june of 2009 out of seattle it was as calm as a a pond, we had the most beautiful weather . Most of the passage is protected by islands... But mother nature, is unpredictable. I have to say i was completely mesmerized and in awe of the natural beauty, it was so much better then i had imagined,we were so impressed we cruised the south bound from anchorage the next summer, and hope to do it again soon enjoy....

KandJCruising

We did that itinerary on the Star in Sept and it was the smoothest cruise we've been on...by a wide margin. It may not happen that way every time, but the water was smooth during our time at sea.

dow cruiser

We sailed on the Star last September and had very calm seas. You are close to the shore. But we encountered a storm on the sea day just after Prince Rupert and the waves were rough. The highest we noticed on the ship's report on the television was 18 feet high. The ship does take the waves easy and we were OK without any seasick medication. Maybe you should take your seasick pills on the sea days or when you feel any movement where you are uncomfortable. You will love the Alaskan cruise. We could have gone right back on the ship the day we disembarked.

Traveller20074

Last May, it was fine.

I am looking at my Inside Passage map..

You start out of Seattle going through Puget sound..very calm. Entering the Straits Of Juan De Fuca...also pretty darn calm. At no time really do I see the ship entering "open ocean" all the way to Skagway. You are pretty close to land most of the time. The one part that looks a little "open" is the opening after you head out from the Penninsula (the tip of Washington) and toward Victoria..it's a bit open. The rest is hugging land for the most part.

The Pearl was very steady, I never really felt anything other than slight bumping. I did take non-drowsy bonine once, and basically lost the whole day sleepin' on a bench next to a door down one of the halls LOL

mr&mrscruiselover

DH and I did the Alaska cruise on the Star last May. This was our second cruise to Alaska and I did not get seasick on either cruise. To be on the safe side, since I am prone to seasickness, I alway take sea sick medicine prior to boarding and adjust according to the seas. Enjoy your cruise!!!

Sherri and Clay

surroundedbyboys

I've done 4 Alaska cruises (3 of them roundtrip from Seattle). The one last year was in August. We did get a little rocky and my brother & I both got seasick. That was only one day though, and felt fine the next morning. All of the other cruises were very calm and we felt fine.

Thank you for all the replies. Having never been in a ship on the ocean I really didn't know what to expect. I've been on small fishing boats that went out a little ways, and I've been on a very large ferry boat in Canada, but that's it.

I feel much better knowing most of you have experienced calm waters during this type of cruise. I realize if a storm comes through all bets are off, but now I'm looking forward to it even more than before, if that's possible!

terrymtex01

DH and I did the Alaska cruise on the Star last May. This was our second cruise to Alaska and I did not get seasick on either cruise. To be on the safe side, since I am prone to seasickness, I alway take sea sick medicine prior to boarding and adjust according to the seas. Enjoy your cruise!!!   Sherri and Clay

We did this same cruise as Sherri and Clay and it was wonderful meeting them and spending time with them. This was our second Alaskan cruise on this same ship, same itinenary and the ONLY time we ever had rough seas was the first time after we left Prince Rupert going back to Seattle. The seas were ROUGH. and for me to say they were rough.. they were ROUGH. Other than that, no problems at all. So 1 day out of 14.. not bad.. 8-)

Our Alaska cruise was super smooth on the first week of June. However, entering the Gulf on the Spirit out of New Orleans, the first night and half the next day we rocked and rolled a bit, enough to make walking a bit difficult. These ships do have stabilizers and that keeps it to a minimum. They tend to roll more than pitch. Stay midship to minimize the action if there is any...along with the bonine several times a day.

This whole cruise is a gift, so rooms were chosen for us. We are in 10006-12 even and 10003-5 odd which is in the front right corner of the ship.

I guess the leg of the trip I'm most worried about is the last one - Prince Rupert to Seattle because we go west of the islands. It could be a rather long 2 nights and a full day if it's rough. We'll probably be able to get our land legs back on though because we'll stay that night in Seattle and fly home Sunday.

My kids (14 and 11 now) usually takes bonine for car trips and plane rides and it doesn't seem to make them very sleepy, so I don't think they'll sleep through the cruise. :rolleyes: We've never done it several days in a row though. Does continued use make you sleepier?

Did have a bad experience once... We were on the Pearl and there was something wrong with the ships stabilizers, we had to anchor in the water and have a crew fix the problems. For an hour or so during bingo we were very rocky, even the cruise director got a bit sick and had to hold on... It wasnt as bad as some may make it out to be, it was an experience to say the least... Been to Alaska 3 times tho and had no other problems...

My wife takes bonine on the night before the cruise and then 2 or 3 times a day during a cruise. Bonine (meclizine) doesn't seem to create drousiness. And actually, once I got use to the rolling motion on the rare times we've experienced it, it was kind of pleasent in bed. I relaxed and just let it happen. And even during the day, the motion let me know i was actually on a ship. Most of the time, you have no sense of motion or travel at all.

InternetAgeTraveler

I compiled a number of time lapse videos from 2010 and have the entire NCL Star set. Assuming it continues going to the East of Vancouver Island, you are correct that the main area where you "might" see rough weather is the last leg (although sometime is can be rough for a few hours as you reach the Prince Rupert area going north as well).

Here is an example of what you might expect (the past doesn't predict the future however).

Norwegian Star July 24th, 2010

You can also click on the time lapse link in my signature and then search on "Star" to see all 21 of the Star cruises from 2010.

I compiled a number of time lapse videos from 2010 and have the entire NCL Star set. Assuming it continues going to the East of Vancouver Island, you are correct that the main area where you "might" see rough weather is the last leg (although sometime is can be rough for a few hours as you reach the Prince Rupert area going north as well).   Here is an example of what you might expect (the past doesn't predict the future however).   Norwegian Star July 24th, 2010   You can also click on the time lapse link in my signature and then search on "Star" to see all 21 of the Star cruises from 2010.

Thank you!!!!! The videos were amazing, beautiful and very reassuring.

After watching these amazing images I don't know why I ever worried! Smooth as a baby's bottom 99.5% of the time. I never saw a real wave! How in the world did you ever put those together?

(I am glad we bought rain gear!)

ddljcruisers

Yes, your video is amazing! We will also be on the NCL Star to ALaska in June.

The Strait of Juan de Fuca can be bumpy, but the Star is a smooth sailer -- propulsion by azipods rather than big props and the stabalizers are state-of-the-art. And you have the best of all possible cabins for an inside-passage cruise.

We did the Inside Passage a few years ago. The only rough seas we encountered was when we were sailing from Skagway to Sitka...there was a big storm we went through that night; wave/winds were quite high. The Captain did say that the seas to that port were usually not that rough. The rest of the cruise (Vancouver to Anchorage) was absolutely smooth and perfect! Enjoy.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Special Event: Q&A with Laura Hodges Bethge, President Celebrity Cruises
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com Summer 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 6 hours ago

LauraS · Started 12 hours ago

LauraS · Started 17 hours ago

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 09:08 PM

LauraS · Started Monday at 08:46 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

How rough is it outside the inside passage?

By nazpaz , June 6, 2009 in Alaska

Recommended Posts

Our Rhapsody of the Seas cruise travels "outside the inside passage" on it's way north. How concerned should we be about rough seas and sea sickness this first night and day of our cruise?

Thanks in advance for any helpful replies.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

mountainhouse

Current wave heights and history can be viewed here:

http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/

Just zoom in and click on a diamond.

Maybe others would have opinions on what size waves equates to a rough ride. However, it also depends on what direction the ship is going in relative to the wave. Plenty of folks have said West and North of Vancouver Island can be rough. Right now, it's only a 3.3' swell, so sounds pretty smooth.

SeattleCruiselover

Current wave heights and history can be viewed here: http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/ Just zoom in and click on a diamond.   Maybe others would have opinions on what size waves equates to a rough ride. However, it also depends on what direction the ship is going in relative to the wave. Plenty of folks have said West and North of Vancouver Island can be rough. Right now, it's only a 3.3' swell, so sounds pretty smooth.

Whereas the other day there was a Force 4 gale out there and 10-12 foot swells, quartering from the south-southwest. This time of year, and in September, it can be pretty rough on the northbound when you are out with the current going against you, but, as the previous poster said, rough is relative.

Im leaving this time of year, next year. That was my biggest concern leaving from Seattle. Hope I have smooth seas.

Thanks for the replies - I'll keep an eye on conditions the week or so prior to the trip. I wish the cruise line stayed inside the inside passage!

We left from Seattle on May 24 and we had smooth seas the whole way. Another reson this was one of our best cruises.

all is good

Just did the outside the inside passage a few weeks ago! Although you basically are out in open water and the seas werent that rough I did get bothered with a queezy stomach. Fortunately I travel with the "seasick wristbands" and that solved the problem for me! They do work. I was however disappointed that we werent on the inside part of the passage - my bad for not realizing that was the route traveled before the cruise with that itinerary. I assumed we would be in the beautiful inside cruise. Grab the wristbands at any drug store, even small seas can bother some.

Current wave heights and history can be viewed here: http://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/ Just zoom in and click on a diamond.

Thanks for the link - I'll keep an eye on it. However, never having been on anything bigger than the Texas Ferry at Galveston, I'm not sure what having 7 foot waves means so far as the motion of the ship!

It can get rough, but remember that you will always feel better if you are breathing fresh air. Get outside and breathe for a while. The ship is 'making time' going north. It really isn't the height of the seas that matters the most, it is the direction of the waves relative to the direction the ship is going.

My husband gets sea sick very easily, but he did fine on a cruise to Alaska. It can get rough in the inside passage as well. Just being 'inside' doesn't promise an easy ride.

Well, if they did, you wouldn't be able to sail out of Seattle and you wouldn't be able to go to Whittier or Seward (and therefore to Anchorage and the interior). You would be limited to sailing out of Vancouver to Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier and back and you would miss Alaska, really.

WE have done both a roundtrip out of Seattle and oneways to both Whittier and Seward. WE had no rough weather on the roundtrip but several days of rolling on the other 2 cruises, both times in the Inside Passage. It was nothing like sailing through the edges of a tropical storm on the way to Bermuda though. If you have a tendency to be seasick, come prepared. After all, you will be on a ship.

whale-watcher

We found it to be no worse than any other open ocean sailing...we have experienced rougher seas on Caribbean itineraries.

We've had rough seas on two of our five Alaska sailings. The first time was a r/t out of Vancouver, but we hit a storm as we were leaving the Hubbard Glacier. There were quite a few passengers who were getting seasick; although we weren't affected. We also did a r/t out of San Francisco and had one day of high seas when they closed the Promenade Deck because the swells were hitting the deck and water was coming through the doors at times. That time there were envelopes of dramamine laying around the ship for those who needed it.

If you don't want medicine and the bands don't work for you there is also ginger gum which can be purchased at some drug stores and ginger chews which I saw in at least on grocery store. (In fact I bought some and really liked them so they never made it on a cruise.)

I read that the tv show Mythbusters checked out all the sea sick remedies and concluded that ginger as as good at helping with sea sickness as over the counter drugs.

I'll check out the ginger chews! Thanks.

Budget Queen

This question pops up frequently. Bottom line, you are on WATER, and asking a question that can not be answered- for your sailing.

As general- round trip Seattle has the roughest sailing potential. I just had a "smooth sailing" trip last week, and guess what- there were STILL sick passengers. Prevention is the only advice worth giving. Contact your health care professional for determining what will be best for you.

This question pops up frequently. Bottom line, you are on WATER, and asking a question that can not be answered- for your sailing.   As general- round trip Seattle has the roughest sailing potential. I just had a "smooth sailing" trip last week, and guess what- there were STILL sick passengers. Prevention is the only advice worth giving. Contact your health care professional for determining what will be best for you.

I'm sorry I asked a question that pops up frequently. I've been reading the forum for some time now and havn't seen it asked. Also, my efforts at searching didn't help. However, I know there are many thousands of posts, so I understand that just about any question can be said to have been asked frequently.

I appreciate yours and the other responses. I don't know that it's a question that can't be answered though. I asked how concerned should one be and the answers have helped me evaluate what is a reasonable level of concern.

Thanks again.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Special Event: Q&A with Laura Hodges Bethge, President Celebrity Cruises
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com Summer 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 6 hours ago

LauraS · Started 12 hours ago

LauraS · Started 17 hours ago

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 09:08 PM

LauraS · Started Monday at 08:46 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps gets powerful ships to confront adversaries well beyond the Persian Gulf

• Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is building a fleet capable of operations on the high seas.
• Its new missile corvettes are the most heavily armed combatant ships in its fleet.
• It also converted a container carrier into a mothership for drones and special forces.

In the last three years, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy has commissioned hundreds of new vessels. Most are newer variants of the missile, rocket, and heavy machine-gun-clad speedboats that have long formed the backbone of the IRGCN's fleet, but beginning in 2022, the IRGCN began commissioning new classes of warships capable of operating on the high seas.

The vessels, four newly designed missile-armed catamaran corvettes and a container ship converted into an expeditionary sea base, bring new capabilities to the hardline force known for carrying out dangerous missions like attaching mines to ship hulls and hijacking merchant ships, giving Iran options to keep adversaries with advanced navies and air forces like Saudi Arabia and the US off-balance.

The largest ships ever to be commissioned into its service, the vessels enable the IRGCN to operate major surface combatants with long-range anti-ship and anti-air weapons, and also helps the historically littoral force to pursue a new mission only recently given to it: to project power into the high seas via expeditionary operations.

With a fourth catamaran missile corvette on the way and another container ship being converted into a drone carrier , the IRGCN's future fleet is gaining the larger ships and firepower needed to confront its adversaries beyond the Persian Gulf.

Catamaran missile corvettes

Founded in 1985, the IRGCN is the naval branch of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a paramilitary organization that operates as the ideological steward of Iran's revolution separate from the national military and which answers directly to Tehran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Numbering around 25,000 personnel, in 2007, the IRGCN was tasked with the security of the Persian Gulf, while Iran's national navy was given responsibility for the waters of the inland Caspian Sea, the Gulf of Oman, and beyond. Responsibility for the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth that dog-legs into the Persian Gulf, is shared between the two forces.

Since its inception, the IRGCN has employed an asymmetric doctrine that utilizes swarm and guerilla tactics with an emphasis on numbers, speed, mobility, and geographical advantages. They are known for provocative tactics that harass and threaten US Navy warships and civilian merchant vessels.

Operating in conjunction with Iran's land-based missiles and aircraft, the IRGCN can mount rapid sea assaults that exploit the islands and contours of Iran's coast. They rely extensively on hundreds of smaller vessels, namely fast attack craft (FAC) and fast inshore attack craft (FAIC) like those of the Tondar and Peykaap -classes which are armed with heavy machine guns, rockets, anti-ship missiles, and torpedoes to swarm enemy warships that may also be under attack from loitering munitions.

On September 5, 2022, the IRGCN diverged from its usual procurement practices when it commissioned the Shahid Soleimani , the lead ship of a new class of corvettes named after the leader of the IRGC's elite Quds Force who was killed in a US drone strike in 2020. At 213 feet long, 47 feet wide, and displacing an estimated 600 tons, it is one of the largest surface combatants the IRGCN has ever adopted.

The class utilizes a unique twin-hulled catamaran design. The design offers increased speed and stability at the expense of volume to carry more fuel or armaments. Though rare for frontline warships, some major navies do possess catamaran corvettes, including China, Russia, Taiwan, and Norway.

The IRGCN itself has been operating a single catamaran called the Shahid Nazeri since 2016. Despite being lightly armed, it has a record of harassing US vessels and civilian ships in the Persian Gulf.

But while Shahid Nazeri has few armaments, the Soleimani-class corvettes are the most heavily armed vessels in the IRGCN fleet, with an armament of 28 missiles, four 23mm Gatling guns (two in front of the bridge and two amidships), and one 30mm auto-cannon at the bow. Their formidable missile armaments are designed to threaten ships and aircraft.

Twenty-two of the missiles are stored in vertical launch systems (VLS), making the Soleimanis the first vessels in Iranian service with vertical launch capability. Believed to all house surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), they are arranged in two groups of eleven cells (eight small and three large) on the port and starboard sides just behind the bridge.

The six large cells are believed to house medium-range SAMs with a range of 92 miles each, while the sixteen small cells are believed to house short-range SAMs. Six box launchers amidships (three on each side) house anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs); likely four long-range ASCMs like the Ghadir or Noor, with ranges of 184 and 74 miles, respectively, and two short-range ASCMs like the Nasr, which has a range of 21 miles.

A helicopter deck is located just behind the box launchers and mast. Below it is a hangar reportedly large enough for three IRGCN FIACs; these fast inshore attack boats can be lowered into the water and picked up by an internal crane.

Made out of aluminum, Iranian officials have said that the ships have a range of 5,500 nautical miles. They have also said that the catamaran layout provides stability in rough seas and reduces the ships' radar cross-sections, making them harder to detect and track.

Three Soleimani-class corvettes, Shahid Soleimani, Shahid Hassan Bagheri, and Shahid Sayyad Shirazi, have been commissioned, while a fourth, Shahid Ra'is-Ali Delvari, is under construction. One month before the Hassan Bagheri and Sayyad Sirazi's commissioning last February, the IRGCN commissioned a new type of catamaran corvette, the Shahid Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis .

At 157 feet long, 39 feet wide, and displacing around 300 tons, it is smaller than the Shahid Soleimani-class and vastly different in appearance; it has no internal hangar capable of holding FAICs, no VLS cells, and the landing deck behind the bridge appears to be too small for helicopters, likely meaning it is intended for drones.

Its armament consists of 14 missiles; six ASCMs stored in box launchers at the stern and eight more ASCMs in two quad-tubed launchers on the port and starboard sides. It is also equipped with four 23mm Gatling guns and one 30mm auto-cannon.

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, the commander of the IRGCN, described the Shahid Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis as an "invisible boat" because of its catamaran design, and said it had a range of 2,300 miles.

Iran's IRGC published a video today of launching a ballistic missile from their forward base Shahid Mahdavi (converted container ship). pic.twitter.com/400Y8DYPlr — Mehdi H. (@mhmiranusa) February 13, 2024

Converted container ships

Though the newest, the catamaran corvettes are not the first sea-faring vessels the IRGCN has operated. The service has unofficially operated the cargo ships MV Saviz and the MV Behshad which, although officially registered as civilian vessels, are used as forward base and command ships to coordinate support for Houthi rebels in Yemen and to gather intelligence. The IRGC smuggles weapons to the Houthis and train them on their use.

In 2020, the IRGCN commissioned its first official sea-going vessel, the Shahid Roudaki . A converted roll-on/roll-off ship, the Shahid Roudaki is capable of carrying FAICs, drones, and military vehicles, and has space for a helicopter on its deck. It is armed with four ASCM box launchers and is believed to play an intelligence-gathering and support role.

Roudaki was briefly the largest ship in the IRGCN fleet until March 2023, when the Guard commissioned the Shahid Mahdavi , a converted container ship formerly known as Sarvin.

Related stories

At 787 feet long and 105 feet wide, Mahdavi's role is that of an expeditionary sea base and support/mothership. Equipped with a phased array radar and capable of carrying two helicopters, drones, loitering munitions like the Shahed-136, and FAICs, Mahdavi can also be used as a base from which IRGCN special forces can be inserted, and act as an intelligence-gathering vessel.

It is often compared to the US Navy's Lewis B. Puller-class expeditionary mobile bases, the lead ship of which has spent ample time in the Persian Gulf in view of Iranian forces.

Iran's navy has a similar vessel, the IRINS Makran, a forward base ship converted from an oil tanker. Commissioned in 2021, it has conducted multiple long-range voyages, including one that saw it circumnavigate the globe.

Mahdavi made international headlines in February when it launched two ballistic missiles from shipping containers placed on its deck as part of the Great Prophet 18 military exercise. Fired from the Gulf of Oman, the missiles were reported to have successfully hit mock targets in a desert in central Iran, demonstrating an at-sea launch capability for Iran's ballistic missiles.

The ship again made headlines in May when it sailed into the Southern Hemisphere, proving definitively that the IRGCN's reach now extends to the high seas .

Mahdavi will eventually be joined by another converted container ship, the Shahid Bagheri. Formerly known as the Perarin, the vessel has been undergoing conversion into a drone carrier for the IRGCN since 2021.

Measuring 787 feet long, the ship's width has been increased slightly with the addition of a cantilever deck on its port side. In 2023, a ski-jump ramp was fitted to the bow at an angle toward the starboard side in line with the cantilever deck, suggesting that wheeled drones will take off and land by avoiding the ship's towering superstructure that houses the bridge.

The makeup of Bagheri's future unmanned air wing remains a matter of speculation, and could include Shahed 171 and 191s (which are reverse-engineered Iranian copies of a captured American RQ-170 Sentinel), or Mohajer-6 and Shahed 129 drones, all of which can reportedly be used as reconnaissance and strike platforms.

The Bagheri's flight deck measures about 590 feet. The main recovery method for the drones will likely be an arrestor net or cable system of some type, though drones with short takeoff and landing ability may be able to conventionally land in calm seas.

Like the Mahdavi, Bagheri could also be used as a launch platform for loitering munitions like one-way attack drones. In addition, Rear Adm. Tangsiri has said that Bagheri will be able to store 30 FAICs below its deck.

An expanded mission

Altogether, the ships represent radical upgrades for the IRGCN — upgrades that the force has desperately wanted.

Though its asymmetric tactics and assets have successfully shot down an American drone, damaged and seized merchant ships, and taken American and British naval personnel prisoners, the last major combat engagement the IRGCN fought was a humiliating defeat for Iran, due in large part to hostile missile-equipped surface combatants and airpower.

Now sailing with large surface combatants armed with anti-air and anti-ship missiles, as well as new FIACs with better anti-ship and anti-air capabilities, the IRGCN poses a greater threat than it did in the 1980s.

"They know they are going on missions that require defense against aerial threats as well as surface threats, so they have to be prepared to defend against those threats by themselves," Farzin Nadimi, a senior fellow with the Washington Institute for Near East Policy told Insider.

But the IRGCN's new ships are not just intended for protecting the Persian Gulf — they are also for helping the IRGCN in its new mission: Projecting its power into the high seas.

Previously a mission reserved for Iran's national navy, this expansion of duty was ordered by Ayatollah Khamenei himself in 2020 . Though no direct reason has been given for the change, Iranian officials often talk about how the ships will better secure Iran's maritime interests.

"In general, they have portrayed their new mission as protecting the safety and security of Iran's vital maritime routes," Nadimi said.

But it's more likely that the IRGCN needs high-seas capability to better support the IRGC's goal of furthering Iran's strategic interests. Iran is a rival to Israel and Saudi Arabia and arms groups across the region like Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas in Gaza, and the Houthis in Yemen.

While Iran's navy is involved in anti-piracy missions and international voyages to show its flag, it is the IRGC that is responsible for supporting Iran's proxy groups abroad. The Guard is also the frontline force for Iran's efforts in Syria.

In the event that its allies need supplies, the new catamaran corvettes "would be able to escort Iranian ships, tankers, or cargo ships that carry important cargoes," Nadimi said. The Mahdavi and Bagheri, converted container ships themselves, could even carry the cargo and deliver it directly.

And while the MV Saviz and MV Behshad have likely been unofficially aiding the Houthis, the fact that they are not officially Iranian military vessels exposes them to the possibility of being attacked in gray zone operations, as happened to Saviz in 2021 , when a suspected Israeli limpet mine attack crippled it, causing it to be towed back to Iran.

The IRGCN's new ships, by contrast, are official vessels of the regime. "By law they are sovereign territory of Iran," Nadimi said. "They have the threat of serious escalation behind them if Israel directly attacks them."

The ships can also serve Iran's possible tactical goals as well. As a mobile sea-based ballistic missile launch platform with a long range, the Mahdavi poses a particularly potent threat. An IRGCN surface group made up of the Soleimanis, Madhavi, and Bagheri may even be able to pose a threat to US bombers based in Diego Garcia, an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

If tensions in the region continue to escalate into a direct conflict with Israel, these ships could pose a big enough threat that they could become high-priority targets for Israeli submarines operating in the Red and Arabian seas.

With Bagheri finishing construction and a fourth Soleimani-class catamaran being built, the IRGCN's fleet is only expected to get larger as it embraces its new high-seas mission.

"Our oceangoing warships can be present in every location across the world, and when we can fire missiles from them, there is accordingly no safe spot for anyone intending to create insecurity for us," Tangsiri said after the successful missile launches from Mahdavi.

Benjamin Brimelow is a freelance journalist covering international military and defense issues. He holds a master's degree in Global Affairs with a concentration in international security from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. His work has appeared in Business Insider and the Modern War Institute at West Point.

Watch: How the Iranian-backed Houthi militia compares to the US-led task force in the Red Sea

• Main content