The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a third gastrointestinal illness outbreak aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird in less than 3 months. The latest incident occurred during the vessel's July 10th–15th, 2026 voyage in Alaska, when 18 of the ship's 62 passengers experienced symptoms including abdominal cramps and vomiting.
The expedition vessel, operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, had previously recorded outbreaks during sailings from May 26th–31st and June 25th–30th. The first two incidents were confirmed as norovirus, while the cause of the most recent outbreak has not yet been identified, although the reported symptoms were consistent with the earlier cases.
According to information provided to the CDC, the ship's crew implemented enhanced cleaning and disinfection procedures in accordance with the company's outbreak prevention and response plan. Additional measures included isolating affected passengers and crew, consulting with the CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program and collecting samples to assist with the investigation. The CDC continues to monitor the situation remotely.
Nat Geo Sea Bird operates seasonal expedition cruises along the coasts of Alaska and British Columbia during the summer months. The vessel accommodates up to 62 passengers in 31 cabins and specializes in small-ship nature-focused itineraries.
For more National Geographic Sea Bird incidents and accidents, see the ship's CruiseMinus page