Oceanwide Expeditions’ MV Hondius has successfully completed a deep cleaning and disinfection program and has been cleared to resume operations by the Dutch public health authorities. The cleaning took place in Rotterdam, culminating with an inspection on May 29th and official approval on May 30th.
The vessel underwent a meticulous cleaning process to ensure it met health and safety standards before its planned departure to Longyearbyen on June 6th. The project involved collaboration among health authorities, maritime regulators, and specialists to establish an effective biosecurity approach. A specialized team from EWS Group, consisting of thirteen biosecurity experts, managed the extensive cleaning across the ship’s eight decks.
During the cleaning, the focus was on eliminating residual organic material, followed by disinfecting hard surfaces using approved cleaning agents and hydrogen peroxide. Soft furnishings were treated with high-temperature steam. Strict protocols were enforced to maintain separation between clean and contaminated areas, upholding high procedural integrity.
The authorities confirmed that the vessel had been effectively cleaned and posed no public health risks, allowing it to resume service. Oceanwide Expeditions expressed gratitude for the professionalism shown by everyone involved in the process, highlighting that the hantavirus exposure noted previously was unrelated to the ship’s operations.
Following the deep cleaning and inspection, crew changes have occurred, with quarantined personnel from the last trip remaining off the vessel. The newly assigned crew has had no contact with those in quarantine. With clearance granted, MV Hondius is now finalizing maintenance and is set to depart from Rotterdam, embarking on its Arctic season from Longyearbyen on June 13th.
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