The International Longshoremen's Association went on strike Oct. 1, impacting U.S. port operations from Maine to Texas. However, the union said cruise operations will not be affected.
ILA workers will continue working passenger cruise ships at all ILA ports in an effort to not inconvenience the tens of thousands of Americans who have booked trips in advance, said Harold Daggett, ILA president.
"We understand that many families plan and pay for cruise vacations on passenger ships more than a year out, and we don't want them to be disappointed or inconvenienced in any way."
The workers, who are using the strike to leverage for higher wages and protest automation, will also continue to service U.S. military cargo. However, all other cargo ships docking at 36 ports along the Atlantic and the Gulf Coast will go unloaded, which could lead to a shortage of goods on grocery store shelves and fewer car deliveries if the strike stretches for more than a few weeks.
A Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings spokesman said the company appreciates ILA's commitment to support cruise passengers. Asked how cruise lines will be affected if the strike is drawn out, the spokesman said, "Regarding potential impact to provisions, the cruise industry has the flexibility to source through various suppliers and locations."