Instead, another U.S. flag-ship, the Pride of Aloha, will start cruises July 4 and the cruise line will alter plans for the launch of its ships.

The start of Pride of America cruises will be delayed for months, but precisely how long is not known.

"This unfortunate event has certainly challenged us and there is a great deal to be done to ensure our passengers receive the vacation they have planned in spite of what has happened," said Colin Veitch, Norwegian’s president and chef executive in a written statement.

"While this is certainly a hurdle in the process, we will not be deterred from launching our U.S. Flag operation this year and ensuring the continued employment of the 1,000-plus U.S. seafarers who have already been hired. Reversing the order of the two ships allows us to do this."

Passengers holding tickets for the 2,156-passenger Pride of America will be rebooked on the Pride of Aloha and the Pride of Aloha's itinerary will be cancelled.

Those holding tickets for 2,000-passenger Pride of Aloha cruises will be asked to take a different cruise on the ship’s new schedule - a seven-day itinerary instead of a three- or four-day itinerary.