Norovirus Outbreak on Serenade of the Seas: What UK Cruisers Need to Know
A recent Royal Caribbean cruise has seen over 70 passengers fall ill due to a gastrointestinal outbreak. The Serenade of the Seas departed from San Diego on 19th September 2025, embarking on a 13-night journey through the Panama Canal. The cruise is set to conclude in Miami on 2nd October. So far, 71 passengers and one crew member have shown symptoms associated with norovirus. With 1,874 guests on board, this represents 3.79% of the passengers.
Response and Preventative Measures
Royal Caribbean has taken swift action to manage the situation. Affected passengers and the crew member have been isolated. Enhanced cleaning protocols are in place, and stool samples are being analysed to confirm the illness. Passengers are advised to wash their hands frequently and rest adequately to avoid infection. Despite the outbreak, the cruise remains on schedule. The ship’s last port of call was Cartagena, Colombia, on 29th September, before heading to Miami.
Frequency of Outbreaks on Cruise Ships
Gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships, while newsworthy, are relatively uncommon. Cruise lines must report any outbreak affecting 3% or more of the ship’s population. In 2023, there were only 14 reported outbreaks, and 18 in 2024. With this incident on Serenade of the Seas, the total for 2025 has reached 19. Royal Caribbean has experienced similar outbreaks on two other ships this year, Radiance of the Seas in February and Navigator of the Seas in July. Its Silversea brand also reported an isolated E.coli case on Silver Ray in January, though not all required official reporting.
Implications for Cruise Holidaygoers
Norovirus is highly contagious but typically short-lived, with most people recovering without serious issues. Cruise lines are well-versed in handling such outbreaks through rigorous cleaning and health protocols. Given that millions of passengers cruise annually, the likelihood of encountering an outbreak is low. The Serenade of the Seas continues its voyage, with the majority of guests unaffected and enjoying their Panama Canal adventure.
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The post Norovirus Outbreak Hits Royal Caribbean’s Serenade of the Seas appeared first on Cruise Mummy.
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