Illness Outbreak Forces Cruise Ship to Enact Enhanced Safety Measures

A recent gastrointestinal outbreak aboard the Seven Seas Mariner, a luxury cruise ship from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has sickened 21 individuals comprising both guests and crew. This incident marks the first reported illness outbreak of 2026.

The Seven Seas Mariner, carrying just 1,089 passengers and crew, was sailing from Miami to Honolulu during the outbreak. The ship departed Florida on January 11, 2026, transited through the Panama Canal, and visited several ports in Central America and Mexico before reaching Hawaii on February 1.

According to reports, 3.3% of the 631 guests and 1.3% of the 458 crew members reported symptoms including diarrhea. The cause of the outbreak has yet to be confirmed, but outbreaks in U.S. waters are mandated to be reported to the CDC when more than 3% of either guests or crew present gastrointestinal symptoms.

Given the length of the cruise, it is important to note that the symptoms might not have been reported simultaneously, meaning the reported cases span over the entire voyage rather than indicating a simultaneous outbreak.

The cruise has continued its itinerary without interruption, embarking on a 154-night roundtrip world cruise that leads through destinations in French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia, Asia, India, and Africa before returning to Florida in June.

Response to the Outbreak

In response to the identified cases, Regent Seven Seas implemented standard protocol to curb the potential spread of illness. Preventative measures included enhanced cleaning and disinfection practices, especially for high-contact areas. Guests and crew showing symptoms were isolated while testing was arranged to confirm the cause of the outbreak, although results are still pending. Passengers were also encouraged to follow strict hand hygiene practices.

This outbreak is particularly notable given that 2025 saw a total of 23 reported outbreaks across various cruise lines. The most recent occurrence linked to Regent Seven Seas was on the Seven Seas Explorer in mid-2025.

For additional insights into the rising trend of outbreaks on cruise ships, see Cruise Ship Outbreaks are On the Rise – Should Cruisers Worry?.

Set sail on a voyage of discovery with CruiseShip.net – your ultimate destination for all things cruising! Explore the latest news, insightful reviews, and thrilling cruising adventures from around the globe. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time traveler, CruiseShip.net is your go-to source for expert advice, insider tips, and inspiring stories to fuel your wanderlust. Embark on a journey like no other with CruiseShip.net – where every wave brings new excitement and endless possibilities on the high seas.

Editorial Team

At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising.

Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry.

Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.