Explorer of the Seas has been hit by a gastro outbreak while cruising a 14-night New Zealand voyage. 182 people got the sickness while onboard the large vessel. The gastrointestinal virus which is also common on land can cause vomiting and diarrhea, in some cases, guests onboard can be confined to their cabins to stop the spread.
Authorities have said it’s more than likely to be the Norovirus but that is yet to be confirmed. The public health director, Dr Ferson said that the outbreak began just 2 days after the ship departed Sydney for the 14-night cruise.
As a result of the virus spreading throughout the ship, the cruise line has said the crew is doing extra cleaning and sanitizing ready for the next scheduled voyage.
Explorer of the Seas arrived back in Sydney today where many of the sick passengers disembarked. They were met with Ambulances at Sydney’s Ocean Cruise Terminal at around 6 AM local time. The ship’s next cruise has already departed after a slight delay.
Due to the extra sanitation, there should be no issue with guests being hot with the virus for the next cruise. Explorer of the Seas will sail an 8 Night South Pacific Cruise which will arrive back in Sydney, Australia on December 24. Explorer of the Seas is a 138,000 gross ton ship that can carry over 3,000 passengers at double occupancy.
Cruise Hive’s last report on Explorer of the Seas being hit with a Norovirus outbreak back in January 2014 where almost 700 people got sick. For tips on Norovirus while cruising take a look at these tips.
