A luxury Royal Caribbean cruise turned into a health disaster after 140 passengers fell ill with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhoea, forcing the ship into emergency protocols.
The affected travellers, aboard the Adventure of the Seas, were struck down by what officials suspect is a highly contagious norovirus outbreak. Crew members scrambled to contain the spread, isolating sick passengers and intensifying sanitation measures.
Chaos Onboard as Illness Spreads
Passengers described scenes of panic as the ship’s medical team struggled to cope with the sudden influx of cases. "It was absolute chaos—people were collapsing in corridors," one eyewitness reported.
Royal Caribbean confirmed the outbreak in a statement, saying: "We are taking all necessary steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew."
Norovirus Suspected
Health experts believe the culprit is norovirus, a notorious cruise ship menace known for its rapid transmission in confined spaces. Symptoms include severe stomach cramps, nausea, and dehydration.
The ship’s medical staff worked around the clock, distributing rehydration salts and anti-nausea medication. Meanwhile, crew members conducted deep-cleaning operations to disinfect high-traffic areas.
Passengers Demand Compensation
Angry holidaymakers are now demanding refunds and compensation, with many branding the cruise "a holiday from hell." One passenger fumed: "We paid thousands for this trip, only to spend it locked in our cabin."
Royal Caribbean has yet to confirm whether affected guests will receive reimbursement, but industry insiders suggest the company may offer future cruise credits to appease disgruntled customers.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the health risks associated with cruise travel, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
