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July 19.2025
2 Minutes Read

Norovirus Outbreak Sickens 140 Passengers on Royal Caribbean Cruise: What Seniors Need to Know

Norovirus outbreak Royal Caribbean cruise ship at port with CDC inset.

Gastrointestinal Outbreak Affects Royal Caribbean Cruise

In July 2025, Royal Caribbean's Navigators of the Seas experienced a significant gastrointestinal outbreak that sickened 140 passengers and crew members, marking the second such incident on the ship this year. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this incident involved 134 passengers and 7 crew members falling ill during a 7-night cruise journey from Los Angeles, California, to the picturesque Mexican Riviera.

Although the CDC did not officially confirm the culprit, indicators suggest the presence of norovirus, a virus notorious for being highly contagious and capable of spreading rapidly through contaminated food, water, or surfaces. Symptoms typically associated with the illness include diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, which can severely detract from the enjoyment of a cruise vacation.

Enhanced Safety Measures Implemented

In response to the outbreak, Royal Caribbean has swiftly enacted enhanced cleaning protocols. The cruise line has not only conducted exhaustive cleanings but also taken initiatives such as collecting stool samples for epidemiological testing and isolating affected passengers. A spokesperson emphasized the company's commitment to health and safety, highlighting that their cleaning procedures consistently exceed public health guidelines.

Rising Trends of Outbreaks on Cruises

This incident reflects a disturbing trend—2025 has seen an increase in gastrointestinal cases across cruise ships compared to the prior year, which experienced 18 outbreaks across all lines. The CDC mandates that outbreaks be reported when 3% or more of passengers or crew report gastrointestinal symptoms:

  • The first outbreak of 2025 occurred on Holland America's Volendam back in January, confirming a pattern of vulnerability among cruise ships.
  • Additionally, another Royal Caribbean vessel, the Radiance of the Seas, reported similar incidents earlier this year.

With preventative measures heightened, prospective travelers, especially retirees looking to cruise, are advised to stay informed about health standards and practices in the cruise industry. Such knowledge can help ensure a more enjoyable and safer vacation experience at sea.

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