FORT LAUDERDALE — Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line has issued a statement advising the trade and clients that it has cancelled more sailings in September as it deploys one of its ships for Hurricane Dorian relief efforts.

The company deployed one of its ships, Grand Celebration, on a post-Hurricane Dorian humanitarian sailing to Grand Bahama Island.

“At that time, we became the first cruise line to dock in Freeport, taking with us 225,000 pounds of critical supplies and thousands of first responders and volunteers. We proudly returned with 1,100 Bahamian residents who had the proper vetted documentation, bringing them safely to Palm Beach.

“Today, we’ve announced that we are cancelling our Sept. 13, 15, 17 and 19 sailings. On Sept. 13, Bahamas Relief Cruise – a 501c3 non-profit – will mobilize Grand Celebration for another humanitarian cruise, continuing the effort we started in the days after Hurricane Dorian. Additional humanitarian cruises may follow.

“We remain open for new bookings and will protect travel agent commissions. We are committed to returning to Grand Bahama Island soon, working with our partners on the island to ensure a wonderful, memorable experience for our guests.”

Oneil Khosa, CEO of Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line, says Grand Bahama is the cruise line’s “home away from home”.

“As we all know, tourism is the most important industry in the Bahamas and we understand the lifeline it brings to residents across the islands,” said Khosa. “Grand Bahama is our home away from home. We are committed to providing aid to our brothers and sisters there and we look forward to returning to our traditional sailing schedule as soon as possible, as we know that will make the most positive impact on the island.”