Hundreds of British and Irish nationals are currently in lockdown aboard a cruise ship moored in Bordeaux, southwestern France, following the death of a passenger in a suspected norovirus outbreak. The vessel, operated by Ambassador Cruise Line, is holding more than 1,700 passengers and crew as a precautionary measure after dozens of potential cases were identified.
A 92-year-old passenger has died, and approximately 50 individuals have exhibited symptoms of the virus, according to French health officials. The cause of death has yet to be confirmed, pending a coroner's full report, the cruise line stated.
The 14-night voyage departed Belfast on Friday and Liverpool on Saturday before arriving in Bordeaux on Tuesday, where it remains immobilized until medical test results are available. The regional health authority has clarified that this suspected stomach flu outbreak is unrelated to a previous hantavirus cluster reported on the luxury Hondius ship.
Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is highly contagious and presents symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. While typically not severe, it can lead to dehydration. In contrast, hantavirus has a high fatality rate but rarely spreads between humans.
Ambassador Cruise Line issued a statement on Facebook: 'We would like to reassure guests that we take any illnesses aboard our fleet extremely seriously. Enhanced sanitation and prevention protocols were immediately implemented across the ship in line with established public health procedures following the initial reports of illness.'
The company outlined comprehensive health and safety measures, including increased cleaning and disinfection in public areas, assisted service in selected dining venues, and ongoing guidance on hand hygiene, such as regular hand washing and use of hand sanitizers. Passengers are urged to promptly report any symptoms to the onboard medical team.
'While the investigation and testing are ongoing, all guests and crew have been instructed to remain onboard under the direction of the local shore authorities. Once clearance is granted, guests will be permitted to disembark,' the operator added.
Medical staff are currently tending to passengers and crew, and samples are being sent to Bordeaux University hospital for laboratory testing. All shore excursions have been cancelled, and everyone has been ordered to stay on board. Gastrointestinal illnesses are not uncommon on cruise ships; the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has documented four outbreaks this year, including two of E.coli and two of norovirus.
