Norovirus Outbreak on HAL’s MS Rotterdam: 119 Cases Reported

A recent norovirus outbreak aboard the MS Rotterdam, operated by Holland America Line, has led to approximately 120 passengers and crew falling ill. Out of a total of 2,614 guests, 107 exhibited symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea, alongside 12 staff members as confirmed by the CDC.

Currently, the MS Rotterdam is on a 12-day Sunfarer cruise through the Panama Canal, which commenced on February 2 and will conclude on February 14, departing from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

In response to the outbreak, Holland America Line has communicated that most of the cases are mild and have been resolved quickly. The company is working closely with the CDC to enforce enhanced sanitation protocols, which include thorough disinfection of the vessel and the isolation of affected individuals.

This incident marks the seventh gastrointestinal outbreak on a cruise ship in 2025 that has met the CDC’s criteria for public notification, following 18 similar cases in 2024, many of which were also linked to norovirus.

For more details on incidents involving the MS Rotterdam, you can visit the CruiseMinus page.

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