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CARIBBEAN HOLIDAY TOURS AFFECTED BY HURRICANE HANNA
Added: (Mon Sep 08 2008)
Soaking Rains, Whipping Winds, and Strong Surf Predicted
NEWPORT, R.I. -- A cruise ship sailing towards the Carribean holidays islands was detoured to Newport after Hurricane Hanna whipped up the Atlantic and forcibly diverted the ship to move towards north.
When "Miracle" the Carnival Cruise ship left on Aug. 29 from New York, it was sailing to San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas.
But an eye kept on Hanna by cruise officials.
By Monday, Hanna was a hurricane that forced the cruise liner to change its route. After stoppages at Florida and the Bahamas, the ship began to sail north for Newport.
"It's always helpful when someone comes in and wants to spend time and money in our community," said Keith Stokes, executive director of the Newport County Chamber of Commerce.
Not only did Hanna did have an impact on Carnival's cruise ship, but Stokes said it will also have a financial impact on Carribean holidays tourism over the weekend.
"The number one determinant of tourism in New England is the weather -- especially the weekend. And if there's inclement weather, it's a problem," Stokes said.
Despite the predicted soaking rains, whipping winds, and strong surf Stokes said Hanna will certainly not shut down Newport.
"They may not be on the beach or on the harbor front but they are going to be visiting mansions, the restaurants and our other historical attractions," he said.
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Submitted by:
marktaylor