• Gastrointestinal illness affected 89 passengers and two crew members
• Enhanced sanitation measures and isolation protocols were immediately implemented
• The specific virus remains unidentified pending CDC investigation
• The same vessel experienced two similar outbreaks during 2024

A gastrointestinal illness outbreak occurred aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Radiance of the Seas shortly after it departed from Tampa, Florida, for a week-long voyage. Approximately three days into the seven-day Western Caribbean itinerary, the vessel’s sanitation program reported the issue to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to the data, 89 passengers and two crew members experienced symptoms consistent with gastrointestinal distress, including diarrhea and vomiting. This represents a small percentage of the ship’s total capacity, which can accommodate over 2,100 guests and nearly 900 crew members.

While the specific cause of the outbreak remains unknown at this time, the CDC has collected stool specimens to aid in their investigation. Although Norovirus is a frequent cause of such symptoms on cruise ships, authorities noted that confirming the specific pathogen is a process that takes time. In response to the situation, Royal Caribbean implemented enhanced health and safety measures. To contain the spread of the virus, ill passengers and crew were isolated from the general population, and the ship underwent increased cleaning and disinfection procedures.

This incident adds to a recent history of health challenges for the 24-year-old vessel. The Radiance of the Seas experienced similar outbreaks during the previous year. In September 2024, during an Alaskan voyage, 180 passengers and three crew members fell ill with comparable symptoms. Additionally, a confirmed Norovirus outbreak occurred on the same ship in April 2024. Royal Caribbean emphasized that the safety of guests and crew is their top priority and stated that their rigorous cleaning protocols are designed to exceed public health guidelines to ensure a safe environment for travelers.