Home » CRUISE NEWS » Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Norovirus Outbreak Sickens Over 150 on Star Princess Cruise
Published on
March 15, 2026
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Fort Lauderdale, Florida – March 10, 2026 – A norovirus outbreak has sickened more than 150 passengers and crew members aboard the Star Princess cruise ship during its Western Caribbean voyage, which departed from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 7, 2026. The outbreak was officially reported to health authorities on March 11, 2026, and was confirmed by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as being caused by norovirus, a highly contagious gastrointestinal virus. This outbreak highlights ongoing concerns about health risks aboard cruise ships and the importance of quick response measures to prevent further illness.
Extent of Illness Aboard the Star Princess
According to the official CDC report, the Star Princess had 104 out of 4,307 passengers (about 2.4%) and 49 out of 1,561 crew members (about 3.1%) report symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, which are typical of a norovirus infection. Norovirus, which causes gastroenteritis, spreads rapidly in confined spaces like cruise ships, and is known for causing outbreaks in settings with close living quarters, such as nursing homes, schools, and cruise vessels.
Response to the Outbreak
In response to the outbreak, the ship’s medical team immediately implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures in coordination with the CDC. The Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP), a CDC initiative that investigates gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships, launched a field investigation to assess the situation and help contain the spread of the virus. Sick passengers and crew members were isolated to prevent further transmission, and stool samples were collected from those showing symptoms to confirm the presence of norovirus.
Princess Cruises has assured passengers that areas of the ship were thoroughly sanitized, with additional disinfection steps taken throughout the ship during the voyage. The company has been cooperating with the CDC’s recommendations to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew members.
Voyage Itinerary and Affected Destinations
The Star Princess embarked on a week-long cruise that included stops in Honduras, Belize City, and Riviera Maya, Mexico, and was scheduled to return to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 14, 2026. Despite the illness outbreak, the ship maintained its scheduled itinerary, with no cancellations to port visits. However, the company’s response efforts focused on minimizing further impact on passengers’ health and travel experience.
Understanding Norovirus: A Common Cruise Ship Illness
Norovirus is known to be a common cause of gastrointestinal illness, particularly aboard cruise ships. It spreads through contaminated food, water, or by contact with infected surfaces. The virus can quickly spread in crowded environments, leading to high infection rates. Symptoms usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. It typically resolves within 1 to 3 days, though it can be very uncomfortable and disruptive during that period. The CDC emphasizes prompt reporting of symptoms and immediate isolation of affected individuals to help contain outbreaks.
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Previous Norovirus Outbreaks on Cruise Ships
This outbreak aboard the Star Princess marks the fourth norovirus-related event reported on cruise ships in recent months. Earlier outbreaks in 2026, including those on another Princess Cruises vessel, had similar symptoms and responses. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program continuously monitors and investigates outbreaks on cruise ships, working with cruise lines to ensure that necessary health and safety measures are implemented swiftly.
Health and Safety Measures for Future Voyages
In the wake of this outbreak, Princess Cruises has reiterated its commitment to the health and safety of its passengers and crew. The company has promised to continue working with the CDC to improve its sanitation protocols and prevent further incidents. The cruise line is also reinforcing its commitment to quick isolation of sick individuals and conducting regular cleaning procedures to minimize the spread of infections. Passengers are encouraged to report any symptoms early to ensure timely treatment and isolation.
Summary: Norovirus Outbreak on the Star Princess
A norovirus outbreak aboard the Star Princess has affected over 150 passengers and crew members during a Western Caribbean voyage that began in Fort Lauderdale on March 7, 2026. The CDC confirmed the presence of the virus, and enhanced cleaning and isolation measures were implemented to contain the spread. This incident marks the fourth cruise‑associated norovirus outbreak in recent months, highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining health and safety on cruise ships. Passengers are urged to stay informed and follow health and safety guidelines to minimize the risk of infection during travel.
