Story Highlight
– MS Ambition docked in Liverpool before French outbreak.
– 49 people ill; 1,700 still onboard.
– 92-year-old passenger died; cause unknown.
– Enhanced sanitation protocols implemented on the ship.
– All shore excursions cancelled; guests to remain onboard.
Full Story
A luxury cruise liner known as the MS Ambition has encountered significant health challenges during its latest journey after calling at Liverpool. The ship, which is operated by Ambassador Cruise Line, is currently docked in Bordeaux, France, where it is being monitored following reports of gastrointestinal illness affecting a number of passengers and crew.
This situation developed after the MS Ambition, which had welcomed passengers at Liverpool Cruise Terminal on April 26, set sail towards France and Spain on a planned 14-night voyage. On board were 1,187 passengers and 514 crew members. However, complications arose when 49 individuals, including 48 passengers and one crew member, reported symptoms consistent with gastroenteritis.
Authorities in Bordeaux have mandated that all those on board remain on the vessel while health samples are analysed. A tragic incident occurred on Sunday when a 92-year-old male passenger passed away; officials confirmed that he did not exhibit symptoms of the ailment, and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of death. A spokesman from Ambassador Cruise Line indicated the circumstances surrounding this incident are being handled with the utmost care.
On May 8, the MS Ambition departed Belfast and made a brief stop in Liverpool before continuing to Bordeaux. It was anticipated that the ship would leave Bordeaux on May 14 for Ferrol, Spain. However, passenger reports of gastrointestinal illness began to increase following the Liverpool embarkation, raising alarms among health officials.
Gastroenteritis, commonly associated with the “winter vomiting bug” or stomach flu, manifests symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and fever. Most often, adult cases are attributed to norovirus or food poisoning. Given the circumstances, Ambassador Cruise Line has stated its commitment to health and safety, assuring passengers that all illnesses on board are treated with seriousness. Enhanced sanitation measures were implemented immediately, aligning with public health protocols following the first reports of illness.
The cruise line released a statement asserting, “We would like to reassure guests that we take any illnesses aboard our fleet extremely seriously.” The measures include intensified cleaning regimes in communal areas, a shift to assisted service in specific dining venues, and clear instructions for guests regarding hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing and the use of hand sanitiser. Passengers exhibiting symptoms are receiving care from the ship’s medical staff and are being isolated in accordance with EU SHIPSHAN public health protocols.
Experts have been dispatched to the ship to assist the current medical team, and a specialist group is performing tests on samples collected for evaluation at Bordeaux University Hospital. The testing process is rigorous and requires a minimum of six hours to produce results, meaning the current lockdown for passengers and crew may extend until health officials deem it safe for disembarkation.
Consequently, all planned shore excursions scheduled for the day have been cancelled, with affected guests promised a full refund. The cruise line has expressed gratitude for the understanding and cooperation shown by all those on board during this challenging period, reiterating that the health and safety of passengers and crew remain the highest priority.
In an additional note of reassurance, a spokesperson for the cruise line has confirmed that this outbreak bears no connection to a recent hantavirus case reported on a different cruise ship, the MV Hondius. The MS Ambition had previously visited Liverpool last May on a different journey, which involved a series of explorations around Iceland.
The MS Ambition is a notable vessel within the fleet, aptly referred to as the second “lady of the sea.” It has a capacity for 1,200 passengers and features 680 cabins, including 125 with balconies and 113 designated as suites. The onboard dining experience is enhanced by two main restaurants and a café styled on bistro services, alongside four bars, lounges, and a traditional pub. For leisure activities, the ship offers a theatre, card room, library, craft studio, wellness centre, gym, and two swimming pools, along with various retail options for passengers.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by cruise lines in maintaining health standards while accommodating large numbers of passengers. As the situation continues to evolve, Ambassador Cruise Line is committed to working closely with health authorities to ensure the safety and well-being of all those aboard the MS Ambition. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available, but the immediate focus remains on the health investigation and the care of individuals affected by the illness.
Our Thoughts
To prevent the gastrointestinal illness outbreak on the MS Ambition, several measures could have been taken prior to the voyage. A thorough health screening of passengers before embarkation at Liverpool, including assessment for any recent illnesses or symptoms, would have been prudent. Enhanced sanitation protocols should have been implemented not just after reports of illness, but as a standard procedure prior to setting sail, particularly given the close quarters of a cruise ship.
The outbreak suggests potential breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which mandates ensuring the health, safety, and wellbeing of employees and passengers. Moreover, inadequate enforcement of food safety regulations under the Food Safety Act 1990 may have contributed to the illness.
Key lessons include the importance of early detection and response protocols, regular health safety training for staff, and stringent hygiene practices. Regular assessments and drills in line with the UK Public Health Advice for Cruise Ships can strengthen preparedness against similar incidents in the future.
