A gastrointestinal illness outbreak has affected more than 90 people aboard the Radiance of the Seas, a Royal Caribbean cruise that was sailing through the Western Caribbean. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 89 passengers and two crew members exhibited symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting during the seven-day trip that departed from Tampa, Florida, on February 1.
Health authorities have yet to identify the exact cause of the outbreak, although norovirus is one of the main suspects. This highly contagious virus is a leading cause of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruises and can spread quickly through contact with contaminated surfaces, food, or water.
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In response to the emergency, Royal Caribbean implemented control measures to prevent the spread of the disease. Sick passengers and crew members were isolated, and cleaning and disinfection efforts throughout the ship were intensified.
Additionally, samples were collected from those affected to conduct laboratory tests and determine the agent causing the outbreak. The Radiance of the Seas, which features 13 decks and a capacity for more than 2,000 passengers, had scheduled stops in Cozumel (Mexico), Roatán (Honduras), Belize City, and Costa Maya (Mexico).
Despite the outbreak, the ship continued with its itinerary and is expected to return to Tampa on February 8, according to data from CruiseMapper. This incident marks the sixth outbreak of gastrointestinal illness reported on cruises so far in 2025, according to the CDC. In 2024, there were 18 outbreaks recorded, most of which were related to norovirus.
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The situation highlights the importance of following strict hygiene protocols on cruise ships, where diseases can spread quickly due to the close proximity of passengers. The CDC recommends cruise travelers take basic precautions to reduce the risk of infection.
Some of the recommended precautions are, washing hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding contact with sick individuals, and immediately reporting any symptoms to the ship’s staff. While awaiting test results, this new outbreak raises concern about the health challenges that cruise lines face at sea.