RIers stuck at sea following Harvey

August 28, 2017 7:01 pm

By: Rebecca Turco

Email: rturco@abc6.com

GALVESTON, Texas – Several cruise ships are stuck at sea, waiting for the port of Galveston to re-open in Harvey’s wake.

Dozens of Rhode Islanders are on one of those ships, the Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas, including the Martin’s of Harrisville.

"I thought I was only getting a seven day vacation and now it’s magically 12 days," said Liam Martin, 13, who starts school soon.

The Liberty of the Seas was supposed to dock Sunday, but the port closed Friday to brace for the hurricane.

Scott Martin, Liam’s father, learned about Harvey in real–time, while the cruise ship trailed it. "We found out, almost live, that it was a category two, and oh my gosh it’s a [category] three, and holy smokes it’s a [category] four and it’s going to hit."

Three Carnival Cruise ships are also sitting in limbo. Despite this strange circumstance, Scott Martin tells ABC6 News he never felt unsafe. "We’ve only felt minor rolling and rocking,” he said. “When the wind was going across the ship, from the port to starboard side, the whole ship was listed a little bit…I am happy to be on this ship as opposed to what the alternatives are.
"My thoughts and prayers go out to the people that are actually in Texas, having to actually deal with something right now,” he continued. “We’re very fortunate."

Scott Martin tells ABC6 News there are 50 or so Rhode Islanders on the ship. He learned this when he was introduced for a belly flop contest and was met with loud cheers from dozens of people, when the announcer said Martin was from the Ocean State.

The Liberty of the Seas is expected to dock in Miami Tuesday afternoon to refuel, drop off some passengers and wait out the storm, before heading back to Galveston for Friday – weather permitting.

A spokesperson for Royal Caribbean International sent ABC6 News a statement, saying in part:

We are doing all we can to help guests adjust their travel arrangements and appreciate their patience during a stressful time.

The next sailing of Liberty of the Seas, originally scheduled for Sunday, August 27 has been cancelled, and all guests will have their fares fully refunded and have been provided with a future cruise credit.