According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a norovirus outbreak on the Rotterdam, a Holland America Line cruise ship, resulted in 81 passengers and 8 crew members becoming ill during the voyage. The cruise ship had a total of 2,593 passengers and 1,005 crew members on board.

©Holland America

The outbreak occurred on the sailing from December 28th, 2025, through January 9th, 2026. Holland America reported the outbreak on January 8th, 2026. In total, about 3.1% of the passengers were ill during the voyage, and 0.8% of the crew were ill during the voyage.

In response to the outbreak, Holland America Line increased cleaning and disinfection procedures, collected stool specimens from gastrointestinal illness cases, isolated those infected, and consulted with the Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) about sanitation cleaning procedures. VSP is remotely monitoring the situation, including the ship’s response and sanitation procedures.

©Holland America

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, norovirus is highly contagious and causes vomiting and diarrhea. Some people may also experience a fever, headache, and body aches. It is often called the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug.” Usually, someone infected with norovirus gets better in 1-3 days, but they can still spread the virus for 2 weeks or more after feeling better. Norovirus spreads through direct contact with someone with norovirus, eating or drinking contaminated food or liquids, or touching contaminated objects or surfaces, and then putting your fingers in your mouth. The most common settings for norovirus outbreaks include: healthcare facilities, restaurants, schools/childcare centers, and cruise ships.

©CDC

Even though cruise ships account for only 1% of all reported norovirus outbreaks, they often receive media attention. Outbreaks are also harder to control on cruise ships due to the close quarters, shared dining areas, and rapid passenger turnover. There were 23 reported norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships in VSP’s jurisdiction in 2025. If you are heading out on a cruise and worried about norovirus, there are a few precautions you can take. Wash your hands often and well with soap and water. Using hand sanitizer alone will not be effective against norovirus. Be careful not to put your hands on your face or in your mouth after touching surfaces. Raw or undercooked shellfish can contain norovirus.

©CDC

We are always on the lookout for the latest travel news, so stay tuned to DFB for more.