MS Ryndam Will Return To Harwich For Deep Clean

A 14-day cruise onboard Holland America’s MS Ryndam cruise ship has been cut short after a large number of passengers required reported to the infirmary following a suspected norovirus outbreak.

The 1,266 passenger ship will return to Harwich tomorrow (3 July) where staff will perform a deep clean, before the ship departs on 4 July for another 14-day voyage.

Holland America said a large number of guests reported to the ship’s infirmary during the cruise and that the pattern of illness suggested a norovirus outbreak.

“At the first sign of an increase in cases, we immediately initiated enhanced sanitation procedures to interrupt the spread of this virus,” the company added.

Elizabeth Tetzner, an expert travel illness lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, who has represented passengers affected by illnesses onboard cruise ships, said:

Expert Opinion

The reports of a suspected norovirus outbreak onboard the MS Ryndam are concerning. <br/> <br/>“The virus can spread quickly in environments like cruise ships and we have seen from our work that norovirus can have a significant impact on the day-to-day lives of those affected and some people may go on to suffer long-term health complications. <br/> <br/>“We welcome the decision to return early and arrange for a deep clean of the ship before any further voyages. However, those affected will undoubtedly want answers about the cause of the outbreak and how it spread to such a large number of passengers. <br/> <br/>“Therefore, it is vital a thorough investigation is conducted to discover the cause of the virus. Elizabeth Tetzner - Partner