Baltimore's Key Bridge Collapse Already Impacting Port Operations, Cruises

The Maryland Port Administration announced on Tuesday the suspension of vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore until further notice. The port is not shut down and it's still processing trucks inside of the terminals.

As far as cruises go, the Cruise Lines International Association sent a statement to 11 News, saying any adjustments to current cruise activity at the port will be announced as soon as available by the individual cruise lines.

Carnival Cruise Lines said its evaluating options for the Carnival Legend's return, which is scheduled for Sunday.

Regarding future trips, Carnival has sailings scheduled in May. Carnival sent a statement to 11 News, saying: "Our thoughts are with those affected by this tragic accident. It is premature for us to comment on possible impacts to upcoming sailings."

WBAL-TV 11 News has also reached out to Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines and will update this article when a response is received. Royal Caribbean has a sailing scheduled to leave Baltimore in April.

The Cruise Lines International Association's statement follows: "We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Key Bridge that occurred last night and extend our support and heartfelt prayers to all those impacted. We join everyone in extending our thanks and appreciation to the first responders and emergency workers in Baltimore, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other professionals who are working with one goal in mind — to save lives. We are closely following this situation. Right now, the most important thing to do is to allow the emergency workers to do their work."

Based on published itineraries, there are 12 ships making 115 ship calls in 2024. Baltimore is the 29th largest cruise port in the U.S. with 378,000 passengers scheduled to move through the port.

The Baltimore Water Taxi released a statement, saying its service continues in the harbor: "Today, the entire Baltimore Water Taxi team is thinking of all those impacted by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse – families and friends of loved ones who are missing and the first responders at the scene working under dangerous conditions. Baltimore is a tough, brave community. Together, we will come out of this tragedy even stronger.

Source: WBLT TV