Mystery Illness Strikes Over 100 Passengers on Celebrity Cruise: What We Know So Far
During a recent Christmas cruise aboard the Celebrity Eclipse, over 100 individuals reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness, making for a less than festive holiday experience. Out of 3,042 guests, 95 suffered from ailments such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramping, along with 9 crew members from a total of 1,235. This outbreak was significant enough to warrant reporting to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), crossing the 3% threshold for mandatory notification.
The cruise set sail from Port Everglades, Fort Lauderdale, on December 20, 2025, headed for various Eastern Caribbean destinations, including Antigua and St. Maarten. Shortly before the ship’s return on December 28, the situation was monitored closely, leading to swift actions to isolate those affected and enhance cleanliness protocols throughout the vessel.
Following the incident, the onboard team increased disinfection efforts, especially in high-touch areas, and collected samples in hopes of identifying the infection’s source. While a conclusive causative agent has not yet been identified, many gastrointestinal issues stem from viruses or bacteria spread through contact with contaminated surfaces.
This outbreak marked the first for Celebrity Cruises this year, though it’s the twenty-second across the cruise industry, with prior outbreaks largely associated with norovirus and other pathogens. Notably, the perception of cruise ships as "floating petri dishes" persists, despite numerous voyages running smoothly without reported illness.
Guests are advised to maintain hygiene practices, such as thorough handwashing, to mitigate the risk of illness while cruising.
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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.
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