Makes sense, although I wonder if indeed large cruise ships are set up to meet small boats at sea, in moderate or better weather at lest? I suppose they are, or by helicopter like for medical evacs?
“””Makes sense, although I wonder if indeed large cruise ships are set up to meet small boats at sea, in moderate or better weather at lest? I suppose they are, or by helicopter like for medical evacs?”””
This was a tender port where the cruise ship uses their lifeboats to transport passengers from the ship to shore.
Yes, they are. This was a port like many, where the cruise ship anchors off the coast and passengers are ferried ashore in small boats. It's very common, especially for smaller ports.
This ship was still anchored when they refused to take the late passengers aboard. The reason cruise ships are extremely strict with this policy is to ensure passengers take it seriously. If everyone ashore thought they could get away with pushing the deadline, the ship would be late leaving every port. While it seems harsh, fear is a good motivator, and this story will probably help motivate some future passenger to be more punctual.