The operator of the MV Hondius cruise ship has broken its silence following a suspected Hantavirus outbreak that has claimed three lives and left a British tourist fighting for his life. Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed it is managing 'a serious medical situation' aboard the vessel, which remains anchored off the coast of Cape Verde.
Fatalities and Critical Cases
Three Dutch nationals, including a couple aged 69 and 70, have died from the suspected virus. A British passenger is in intensive care in a Johannesburg hospital, while two crew members still on board require urgent medical care. The outbreak has raised concerns about the spread of Hantavirus, which is typically contracted through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva.
Repatriation Efforts Underway
Oceanwide Expeditions stated that Dutch authorities have agreed to lead a joint repatriation effort to transfer two symptomatic individuals from Cape Verde to the Netherlands. The body of one deceased passenger is also planned for repatriation, along with a non-symptomatic guest closely associated with the deceased. However, the operation depends on authorization from Cape Verdean health authorities.
In a statement, the company said: 'As of 23:00hrs CET on 3 May 2026, no authorization from Cape Verdean authorities has been given to disembark guests requiring medical care or to support with medical screening.' The firm is working with the World Health Organization, the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, relevant embassies, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Passengers Stranded Offshore
A letter to passengers revealed that the ship is 'anchored offshore of Cape Verde and awaiting approval to disembark.' Crew admitted there is no clarity on when help will arrive. Hantavirus gained notoriety after killing Gene Hackman's wife, Betsy Arakawa, in February last year. Rodent nests were found at her New Mexico home.
