A UK-operated cruise liner, the Ambition, is currently holding over 1,000 passengers in Bordeaux, France, following an outbreak of gastrointestinal illness that has affected dozens onboard. Local health authorities have intervened, preventing passengers from disembarking as a precautionary measure while investigations are underway. The vessel, operated by Essex-based Ambassador Cruise Line, has 1,187 guests and 514 crew members.

As of Wednesday morning, 48 passengers and one crew member were exhibiting symptoms consistent with gastrointestinal illness, which typically includes diarrhea and vomiting and is often caused by norovirus or food poisoning. The cruise line reported an increase in cases shortly after guests boarded the ship in Liverpool, following its departure from Belfast on May 8th. In response, Ambassador Cruise Line has implemented heightened sanitation and prevention protocols across the ship, including increased cleaning in public areas and ongoing guidance for guests on hand hygiene and symptom reporting.

French health authorities in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region have dispatched a medical team to the Ambition to assess the situation. Samples have been taken for analysis at Bordeaux University Hospital, with results expected within at least six hours. The suspension of disembarkation was deemed necessary due to the contagious nature of such illnesses. One passenger, David Munster from County Down, expressed the uncertainty among guests, stating, “At this stage we don’t know if we will be kept on the ship and just have to sit here until this is dealt with, or whether we’ll be allowed to get off and see Bordeaux.”

Separately, Ambassador Cruise Line confirmed the passing of a 92-year-old man onboard on Sunday. However, the company clarified that the individual did not report any symptoms related to the gastrointestinal outbreak, and the cause of death is pending a coroner’s report. The cruise operator emphasized its commitment to the health, safety, and well-being of its guests and crew, extending condolences to the deceased’s family and friends during this difficult time. Authorities have also stated there is no link between this incident and a hantavirus outbreak reported on a different cruise ship.