Cruise ships stranded in Middle East as Iran closes Strait of Hormuz

Thousands of cruise ship passengers are stranded in the Middle East due to escalating military conflict.
The U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran have resulted in Iranian retaliation. Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz, preventing vessels from reaching safe waters.
MSC Euribia remains docked in Dubai under the guidance of regional military authorities, while three 7-night voyages scheduled for Mar. 14, Mar. 21 and Mar. 28 from Doha, Qatar and Abu Dhabi, UAE have been cancelled.
“Our priority is the safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew, and we continue to follow the guidance of the regional military authorities for the ship to remain in the port of Dubai,” the cruise line said in an update on its website.
The company said it continues to remain in contact with Embassies and Foreign Offices to ensure they have relevant information on their nationals onboard and update them on developing plans to return home.
Meanwhile, two TUI Cruises ships remain stranded due to the strikes on Iran. Mein Schiff 4 remains in Abu Dhabi and Mein Schiff 5 in Doha. The cruise line cancelled sailings starting Mar. 9 and Mar. 12. Booked guests will be contacted immediately.
“We are continuing to monitor developments in the Middle East very closely and are in close contact with the relevant authorities and international security experts,” the company said in a statement.
As of Mar. 4, 2026, the situation remains unchanged including travel and safety advice issued by the German Foreign Office. TUI Cruises’ crisis management team is coordinating with airlines to arrange flights home for affected passengers.
Celestyal Cruises also released an update on its cruise ships Celestyal Journey and Celestyal Discovery voyages that are stuck in the Middle East.
“Considering the current geopolitical situation in the region, we have taken the decision to cancel the remaining Arabian Gulf departures on Celestyal Journey,” the cruise line said in a statement on Facebook.
Celestyal Discovery remains in Dubai and Celestyal Journey in Doha. The company said guests onboard will receive debarkation plans within 24 to 48 hours.
“Our onboard teams will support guests with onward travel arrangements and provide assistance with transfers or accommodation where required,” Celestyal said.