Another point to consider re: towing.

Technically this ship was maritime salvage - not able to make way, drifting. If "JB's Martime Towing" got there first and was able to put a line aboard, Carnival would have owed me a bucketload of cash. At least 10% of the value of the ship and contents.

As it was, they contracted with a company to tow the ship to where they wanted - home port is probably nearest to repair facilities/resupply/cleaning. Also, consider the passengers who had flights out of the nearby area.

I still have to wonder how much was paid to have it towed.