There were no cases of cholera onboard the Norwegian Dawn, according to its owner and operator Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), after the vessels was barred from docking in Mauritius. 

Reports emerged on 26 February that more than 2,000 passengers were caught in limbo off the coast of the Indian Ocean state while officials worked to contain what was believed to be an outbreak of cholera onboard. 

“Although only six guests were being monitored due to mild symptoms of a stomach-related illness, the government of Mauritius required testing in an overabundance of caution, thereby delaying the ship’s original disembarkation scheduled for Feb. 25, 2024,” NCL told Ship Technology.

But the cruise line confirmed that tests were carried out on the six passengers and “no trace” of the waterborne diesease was found, so the ship was then allowed to dock at Port Louis. 

NCL added that it rescheduled onward travel arrangements for passengers, including more than 400 flights. 

“Complimentary hotel accommodations were also secured for those guests who have a return flight scheduled for Feb. 28, 2024.  Additionally, to compensate for this unexpected two-day delay, guests were provided with a future cruise credit,” NCL explained. 

“As always, the health and safety of our guests, crew and the destinations we visit is our top priority. We operate at the highest public health and sanitation standards and abide by all local health regulations,” NCL’s spokesperon added. 

NCL President David J. Herrera said: “We appreciate our guests’ patience during this time, as we navigate this fluid situation. We greatly value our onboard leadership team and crew, as well as our global shoreside team for going above and beyond to ensure the comfort of our guests during this unanticipated event.”

“We believe in doing the right thing and doing everything available to deliver the best vacation experience possible for our guests.”

All guests disembarked the Norwegian Dawn on 27 February.