Norwegian Cruise Line delays sailing after illness outbreak

Norwegian Cruise Line has been forced to delay a sailing after an illness outbreak on board one of its ships.

The line said a “small number of guests” experienced mild symptoms of a stomach-related illness while sailing a South Africa cruise on Norwegian Dawn.

The ship was scheduled to dock in Port Louis, Mauritius on February 25 but was unable to do so after local authorities denied entry until additional testing was carried out.

More: Norwegian Cruise Line cancels autumn 2024 European sailings

As a result, disembarkation of the current sailing and embarkation for the next cruise have been delayed until February 27.

The line said it is providing complimentary hotel accommodation for affected passengers and “elevated” sanitation procedures will be implemented on the ship.

“We have deployed additional team members to support the guests scheduled to embark on Norwegian Dawn’s February 25 voyage from Port Louis, Mauritius, as well as providing them with complimentary hotel accommodations until they are able to board,” a spokesperson for the line said.

“In addition, we are assisting guests currently aboard the ship with their modified travel arrangements.

“The health and safety of our guests, crew and the destinations we visit is our top priority. We operate the highest public health and sanitation standards and encourage our guests to practice good hygiene and to report any illness-related symptoms to the on board medical team immediately.

“Additionally, we have elevated our sanitation procedures aboard the ship as part of our routine measures to ensure a safe environment for all on board and will continue to take any necessary measures to protect our guests, crew and destinations we visit.”