Norwegian Dawn. (Photo Credit: Norwegian)
Mauritius has
barred a vessel belonging to Norwegian
Cruise Line Holdings from docking at its ports, citing concerns over
potential health risks. The port authority took samples from roughly 15
passengers who were being isolated on board, the agency confirmed on Sunday.
The Norwegian
Dawn, originally slated to dock in Port Louis on Sunday, arrived a day early
due to its failure to make a scheduled stop at Reunion Island, the Mauritius
Ports Authority stated in a release.
"The decision
to deny the cruise ship access to the quay was made to mitigate any potential
health hazards," the authority stated.
It further
underscored, "The health and safety of passengers, as well as that of the
country as a whole, are paramount to the authorities," while refraining
from offering any details as to the specific nature of the health concern.
Responding to the
incident, a spokesperson for the U.S.-based Norwegian Cruise Line explained in
a statement that, during the vessel's recent voyage to South Africa on February
13, several passengers had reported mild symptoms of an unspecified gastrointestinal-related
illness.
Upon arriving in
Port Louis, the Norwegian Dawn's management collaborated closely with Mauritian
authorities to implement necessary precautions and ensure the wellbeing of all
on board, the spokesperson added.
The port authority
indicated that the results of its testing would be available within 48 hours.
Reuters
reported that officials from Mauritius' health ministry were not available for
immediate comment on the situation.
With a total of
2,184 passengers and 1,026 crew members on board, the Norwegian Dawn now faces
disruptions to its scheduled operations. The port authority noted that about
2,000 of those passengers were slated to disembark in Port Louis upon
completing their cruise, and another 2,279 passengers were scheduled to embark.
"Passengers
who were due to board the 'Norwegian Dawn' and begin their cruise from
Mauritius today will not be able to do so due to potential health risks,"
it said.
Consequently, the
disembarkation and embarkation procedures will now occur on February 27, the
Norwegian Cruise Line spokesperson confirmed.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
