Embarkation for the Crown Princess in Sydney on May 20 was delayed due to sanitation protocols following a gastrointestinal illness outbreak on the previous sailing.
Contacting Passengers
In a letter to booked guests, Princess said: “Please be advised there will be a slight delay in the embarkation process for your upcoming Crown Princess voyage departing Sydney on Tuesday, 20 May.”
It went on to say, “During the previous voyage, cases of gastrointestinal illness were reported. While most guests were unaffected, we have implemented a thorough disinfection program in coordination with international health authorities. As an extra precaution, the ship will undergo additional disinfection on 20 May.”
Despite the Crown Princess sailing outside the United States and not being included in CDC data, there have been 16 confirmed norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships from 2025 through May, the highest total for this period since pre-pandemic reporting began.
Norovirus in 2025
Norovirus remains the leading cause of gastrointestinal illness at sea, transmitted via surface contact and close human proximity.
Coral Princess reported two outbreaks, one affecting 148 individuals. Rotterdam recorded 170 cases in February.
Nearly 100 people became ill on Queen Mary 2 and Radiance of the Seas, respectively. Poor sanitation, rapid turnover, and enclosed environments accelerate the transmission of norovirus.
Cruise lines have implemented enhanced cleaning schedules, isolated symptomatic passengers, and reinforced procedural hygiene. Standard operations now include onboard health surveillance and post-case deep cleaning.
Crown Princess is sailing a 12-night South Pacific itinerary with stops in Noumea, Suva, and the Bay of Islands.
