NEW YORK — Royal Caribbean is once again facing criticism after one of its ships sailed into rough weather over the weekend.

Anthem of the Seas encountered 180 km/h winds and 40-foot swells as it sailed out of New Jersey for Bermuda on Sunday.

Back in February the same ship was caught in a storm off the coast of North Carolina.

This time around Anthem of the Seas “was basically in the worst quadrant of post-tropical Hurricane Hermine” reported Florida-based meteorologist Ryan Maue.

Ship passengers said dishes “were all over the place” and several passengers were ill, although there were also reports of a norovirus outbreak.

Passengers David Hughes called the situation “inexcusable”. Interviewed by North Carolina’s WNCN, Hughes added that “at least half or more of the passengers and crew are sick and it’s getting worse.”

Another passenger, Robert McHugh, accused Royal Caribbean of “putting money and profits ahead of safety”.

Royal Caribbean said the captain told guests that the ship experienced higher winds and gusts for a two to three hour period.