Passengers claim that conditions began to deteriorate on Friday afternoon.
The captain made an announcement, warning them of possible delays in reaching Charleston due to adverse weather conditions.
Taylor mentioned that the crew assured the passengers that they would minimize any discomfort caused by the inclement weather. Shortly after the announcement, vomit bags were placed by the elevators.
As the day progressed, the ship encountered increasingly large swells, with crashing sounds heard even over the music at an onboard show.
The ship’s structure was visibly affected, as the stage lights shook, the disco ball swung wildly, and the LED wall on the stage began to roll on its own. During the Friday dinner buffet, plates and cups were sent flying by the ship’s violent movements.
Passengers lost internet service. And staff began closing off public deck areas.
By 11:15 p.m., the Carnival Sunshine was hit by winds reaching 80 mph, leading the captain to alter the ship’s course directly into the eye of the storm system.
Passengers complain
Passengers became alarmed as they witnessed water leaking from cabin ceilings, and communication with the outside world became impossible as the ship’s internet connection failed. The vessel continued to face relentless large swells, causing concern among the passengers.
