Carnival Cruise Line recently published a video warning guests about potential fog-related delays for its ships operating out of Florida and Southern States.

Featuring the company’s Weather Contributor Amy Sweezey, the video also includes tips for passengers who may face fog forecasts.

“Florida is known as the ‘Sunshine State,’ but there is another winter weather phenomenon that’s lesser known, and that is fog,” Sweezey said.

She added that fog season runs from December through March in southern states and occurs under a certain weather scenario.

“Clear skies, light winds and ample moisture create ideal conditions, especially near bodies of water,” Sweezey explained.

There are different types of fog that form in similar yet specific ways, she continued. One example is sea fog, which forms over water and develops when warm, moist air moves over colder water.

“This is why you might drive towards your cruise ship under clear skies only to suddenly hit a wall of thick fog as you get closer to the water and the port,” Sweezey noted.

Modern cruise ships use advanced navigation systems to operate safely even in heavy fog, she added, noting that visibility limits are usually set by local authorities.

“Each cruise port enforces its own rules. Some ports are impacted by fog more than others due to geography and location.”

Sweezey said that Port Tampa Bay, for example, has “quite narrow” navigational channels, which require clear visibility for safe transit.

Port Canaveral is surrounded by inland waterways and nearby wetlands that can “trap fog,” she continued.

In Jacksonville, thick fog often rolls into Jaxport, especially near the St. Johns River entrance, Sweezey added.

Galveston is another port affected by fog, with its narrow and heavily trafficked shipping corridor, while the Port of Mobile deals with fog occasionally.

“If fog is in the forecast for your cruise, staying flexible is key,” Sweezey said, while offering tips for guests dealing with the weather phenomenon.

She recommended that if fog is in the forecast for a cruise, passengers should, if possible, arrive at their departure port at least one day early.

Passengers should also avoid booking tight travel connections on both embarkation and debarkation days, Sweezey continued. Another tip is to be patient with schedule changes for cruises that leave or return early in the morning.

“Always listen for onboard announcements and check your email or text communications prior to departure,” Sweezey explained.

“Fog is a normal part of winter weather here in Florida and across the Southeast U.S. Coast, but fog delays are usually temporary, and as soon as it lifts, you can be well on your way.”