In May 2025, the CDC/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a GI/gastrointestinal illness outbreak on RSSC-Regent Seven Seas Cruises' vessel Seven Seas Explorer.
The outbreak occurred during an 18-night voyage from Tokyo (departure April 26th) to Vancouver (BC Canada).
Out of 666 passengers, 22 reported symptoms consistent with acute gastroenteritis, including diarrhea and vomiting. Additionally, two crew members were affected. The causative agent of the illness remains unidentified.
In response to the outbreak, Regent implemented several measures in consultation with the CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program. These actions included isolating ill individuals, collecting stool specimens for laboratory analysis, and enhancing sanitation protocols throughout the vessel.
Following the conclusion of the voyage, Seven Seas Explorer underwent a comprehensive deep cleaning process before embarking on its subsequent itinerary to Alaska. This procedure aimed to mitigate the risk of further transmission, considering that pathogens such as norovirus can persist on surfaces for extended periods if not adequately disinfected.
This incident represents the 17th gastrointestinal outbreak reported on cruise ships within the CDC's jurisdiction in 2025, approaching the total number of outbreaks recorded in the entire previous year.
In a separate event, Virgin Voyages' ship Resilient Lady experienced a GI outbreak during a cruise from Greece to Croatia and Montenegro, which concluded on May 11. Reports indicate that approximately 3% of passengers exhibited symptoms consistent with the stomach flu. In response, the company postponed disembarkation to allow for enhanced sanitization procedures and isolated affected individuals to prevent further spread.
These occurrences underscore the importance of stringent hygiene practices and prompt reporting of symptoms to onboard medical personnel to effectively manage and contain outbreaks of gastrointestinal illnesses on cruise ships.
For more Seven Seas Explorer incidents and accidents see the ship's CruiseMinus page.