The expedition cruise ship Hondius is nearing the Canary Islands amid a hantavirus outbreak. With three fatalities and several symptomatic passengers, EU health officials are coordinating urgent quarantine measures. Spain will accept the ship, mandating isolation for all disembarking individuals to prevent further transmission of the virus.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the hantavirus outbreak linked to the cruise ship Hondius as a “serious incident,” though public health risks remain low. A suspected case has emerged from a passenger not aboard the ship, prompting global health officials to trace contacts and monitor isolated individuals.
The MV Hondius remains stranded off Cape Verde following a hantavirus outbreak that claimed three lives, including a Dutch couple. With nearly 150 passengers onboard, the ship is scheduled to depart for Spain soon. Health officials stress the public risk is low, urging passengers to maintain hygiene and social distancing.
Health authorities have confirmed that all 38 Filipino crew members aboard the cruise ship Hondius are safe and have tested negative for hantavirus. Albert Domingo, spokesperson for the Philippine Department of Health, assured the public during a briefing that there are no reported infections among the crew, thanks to collaboration with the WHO.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has addressed the hantavirus outbreak on the MV Hondius cruise ship, where three passengers tragically died. Plans are underway for the urgent evacuation of a British crew member. Starmer reassured the public about minimal risk to the wider population, emphasising the government’s commitment to citizens’ safety.
Two tragic falls from cruise ships occurred in U.S. waters over consecutive days, raising safety concerns. A female passenger fell from the Carnival Firenze near Catalina Island, while a crew member fell overboard from the Norwegian Breakaway off Cape Cod. Investigations are underway to determine the causes of these incidents.
The Sapphire Princess altered its course in the Mediterranean after a crew member spotted an orange object, initially feared to be a man overboard. Upon investigation, it was identified as a lifejacket. Tragically, five bodies were discovered nearby, believed to be migrants, prompting a somber atmosphere aboard as the crew handled the distressing situation.
The Aroya, a cruise ship operated in partnership with Cruise Saudi, recently navigated the Strait of Hormuz, joining five other vessels amid regional tensions. Acquired by Saudi Arabia in 2023, it marks the first large cruise ship owned by a Middle Eastern nation, set to resume service from Jeddah on May 14.
Meyer Werft has introduced “Vision,” the world’s first fully battery-electric cruise ship, measuring 275 meters and accommodating 1,856 passengers. Unveiled at Seatrade Cruise Global in Miami, it boasts a 95% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. With potential delivery by 2031, it represents a significant step towards sustainable maritime travel.
Fincantieri has unveiled the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, at its Ancona shipyard. Set for delivery in late 2026, the 54,300-ton vessel will accommodate 998 passengers. Its hybrid propulsion system promises zero-emission operations, aligning with the industry’s shift towards sustainable practices amid stricter regulations.
On December 27, 2025, the cruise ship Coral Adventurer ran aground near Dregerhafen, Papua New Guinea, due to a malfunction in its ECDIS. The chief mate’s modified route plan failed to load, causing delays and ultimately leading the vessel into hazardous waters. Despite attempts to regain control, the ship struck shallow ground.
A crew member tragically lost their life in a fire aboard the World Legacy cruise ship en route to Singapore on February 20. The Maritime and Port Authority reported that of the 224 passengers, 185 were Singaporeans. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among other crew members or passengers.
On February 10, 2026, a harbour pilot fell into the sea while boarding the Emerald Princess cruise ship near Kauai. Quickly rescued by the pilot boat crew, he appeared unharmed. The incident led to the cancellation of the ship’s visit to Nawiliwili Harbour due to hazardous sea conditions.
Meyer Turku has unveiled the AVATAR, a pioneering net-zero cruise ship concept that achieves over 90% reduction in lifecycle carbon emissions compared to the IMO baseline. Part of the NEcOLEAP initiative, AVATAR emphasizes energy efficiency with features like streamlined structures and bio-methanol fuel, showcasing advanced technologies for sustainable cruising.
Fincantieri and Oceania Cruises recently celebrated the keel laying of the Oceania Sonata at Marghera shipyard. This inaugural vessel of the Sonata class, set for delivery in 2027, will accommodate 1,390 guests and emphasize luxury travel. The program includes three additional ships, enhancing Oceania’s premium offerings.
