Coast Guard detains MSC cruise ship in Miami for ‘expanded examination'

The MSC Poesia was detained during an "expanded examination of the vessel," the U.S. Coast Guard Southeast District said.

A cruise ship was detained at PortMiami by the U.S. Coast Guard on Sunday, as officials verify its "compliance with international standards and U.S. regulations," according to a statement.

The MSC Poesia was detained during an "expanded examination of the vessel," the U.S. Coast Guard Southeast District said.

"The Coast Guard is tasked with verifying safe and secure commerce," a statement read. "It is the Captain of the Port's priority to ensure the safety of passengers, crew, the vessel, and the environment. USCG teams are verifying the cruise ship's compliance with international standards and U.S. regulations."

It was not immediately clear if the examination was initially part of a standard procedure, and what regulations may not have been met.

Its 11-night sailing that was supposed to depart from Miami on Sunday was canceled, and guests are being allowed to remain on the ship until Thursday to make travel arrangements, the cruise line said.

In a statement to NBC News, MSC said it had made the "difficult decision" to cancel the sailing.

"We recognize how disappointing and frustrating this news is for our guests, and we sincerely apologize for the disruption to their holiday," the cruise line said. "Prior to departure, a regulatory matter arose that required resolution. Despite our efforts to address the matter, we were unable to resolve it in time for the sailing to proceed. Guests will receive a full refund of their cruise fare, and we are providing support to assist with their journey home."

The MSC Poesia holds 3,223 guests and 1,039 crew members, and according to CruiseMapper, its itinerary included Jamaica, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras and Belize.