A MAGOR family’s “holiday of a lifetime” cruise in the Caribbean was stopped short after a terrifying storm with 10 metre waves.

The Anthems of the Seas cruise set off from the USA on Saturday February 6 carrying more than 4,500 passengers - with Chloe Demaret and her family among them.

But after what the captain said was his “worst day at sea” on February 7, the huge ship was forced to return to New York less than 24 hours after setting off.

The family were forced to stay in their staterooms for 18 hours while the ship was battered with 120mph winds and towering waves.

Ms Demaret’s brother-in-law, Phil Partridge, said that when passengers were eventually allowed out on Monday morning, they saw damage including smashed glass, collapsed ceilings and balconies ripped apart.

The ship’s satellite had also crashed down onto swimming pool deck and luxury jewellery and watch shops aboard had their displays ruined.

Mr Partridge said: “It was certainly a pretty frightening experience and the severity of the storm is only really becoming apparent now we are on dry land.

“The following morning, the captain stated that the events yesterday and through the night were his ‘worst day at sea’.”

The rest of the eight day cruise was cancelled and the ship headed back to Cape Liberty in New York.

South Wales Argus: Some of the damage caused to the cruise ship during the terrifying storm.

The Magor family said passengers were told they would receive a full refund and a 50 per cent discount on a future cruise.

But Mr Partridge said: “As a first time cruiser, this could be a discount that we won’t be cashing in. Holidaying on firmer ground seems very attractive.”

The Anthems of the Seas ship is run by company Royal Caribbean International.

The company said in a statement: “We apologize for exposing our guests and crew to the weather they faced, and for what they went through.

“Our ship and our crew performed very well to keep everyone safe during severe weather. Of more than 6000 people on board, only four minor injuries were reported.

“As for Anthem of the Seas, much of the superficial damage caused by the storm has been repaired. We expect to resume her planned itinerary for next week's cruise.”

Mr Partridge uploaded a blog detailing the family's experience onboard which can be found here.