Transatlantic Journey Delayed For Deep-Clean Onboard

A P&O cruise ship has been docked at Southampton to be deep-cleaned due to a Norovirus outbreak onboard.

The Azura ship, with a capacity for 3,096 passengers was due to depart on a 15-hour Transatlantic crossing to the Caribbean when it was halted today (30^th October).

Passengers are being asked to arrive five hours later than planned with the cruise ship due to set sail at 8:30pm tonight.

There has been a gastrointestinal illness onboard and it is believed to have been caused by Norovirus which is the second most common illness after the common cold.

P&O posted a statement on their Facebook page yesterday (29^th October) which said: "If you are joining Azura tomorrow we have some important information for you.

“As a result, embarkation will be starting later in the afternoon so we can clean the ship appropriately. We are asking guests to arrive 5 hours later than the arrival time given to them. We will be crediting all board accounts with £20 per person to allow you to get some refreshments on the way to Southampton.

“For those guests travelling on a P&O Cruises organised coach please arrive at the coach as planned.

“We are really sorry about the disruption but we do need this time so we can manage our cleaning appropriately."

If you have fallen ill whilst on a cruise ship, our accident and illness abroad claims team could help you to secure compensation. See our Cruise Illness Claims page for more information.

Expert Opinion

“While there remains uncertainty over the exact number of people affected by these problems, it is clear that many passengers will be seeking answers over this outbreak and its impact on those onboard. <br/> <br/>“We would urge the cruise ship operator to work quickly and thoroughly to ensure they are doing everything they can to minimise the risks faced by passengers, as the welfare of those still on board remains a top priority, as should the welfare of those due to embark on the next voyage.” <br/> Suki Chhokar - Partner