Crisis Aboard Ventura Cruise: 250 Fall Ill with Norovirus

More than 150 guests are isolated on board P&O’s MV Ventura ship, which left Southampton in the UK on May 11 for a 14-night cruise around the Canary Islands.

As holiday makers embarked on what was meant to be a serene 14-night voyage aboard P&O’s MV Ventura ship, departing from Southampton on May 11, the anticipation of a blissful escape quickly turned into a nightmare.

Reports emerged of a stomach bug sweeping through the ship, leading to numerous passengers isolating in their cabins. The tranquillity of the cruise was shattered as approximately 250 individuals fell ill with norovirus.

Holiday Claims Bureau is monitoring the situation. Our cruise ship holiday illness claims solicitors stand prepared to assist anyone who has been involved in this or a similar cruise ship illness incident. Proving the negligence of tour operators and fighting for compensation for a ruined holiday is what we are all about.

Emergency Response

On Tuesday, May 28, Southampton City Council confirmed P&O Cruises’ collaboration with Southampton Port Health Authority (SPHA) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to address the escalating figures of acute gastroenteritis and prepare for its next voyage. In response, the cruise line implemented stringent measures to contain the outbreak.

The cruise liner initiated an extended “fire-break” delay of up to seven hours between disembarkation and embarkation—a departure from standard procedures. Additionally, the onboard isolation period for affected passengers was extended, with communal facilities like the launderette and library closed for disinfection.

Experts highlighted the potential for norovirus to spread through various means, including close contact with contaminated surfaces and objects, as well as through ingestion of contaminated food or water. While maintaining stringent hygiene practices, especially in areas such as bathrooms and food preparation zones, is crucial, it’s also essential to recognize the role of other transmission routes.

In response to these challenges, P&O Cruises has implemented proactive measures, such as deploying fogging—a specialised disinfection technique—to effectively eliminate viral particles and mitigate the risk of further spread.

If your health has been impacted by a cruise ship illness and you believe the actions of the tour operator to be negligent, you could be eligible for compensation. It would be a good idea to reach out to Holiday Claims Bureau to assess your options. Get expert advice on your cruise ship illness claim. Call us at 0161 813 2131 to speak directly to a No Win No Fee solicitor specialised in cruise ship compensation claims.

Seeking Justice with Holiday Claims Bureau

Uncertainty about your legal options shouldn’t hold you back from seeking justice. That’s why we offer a complimentary consultation to all potential clients. During this no-obligation session, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with one of our experienced solicitors who will discuss your cruise ship holiday illness case and provide clear, personalised advice tailored to your situation.

Compensation could be awarded to you from the cruise ship operator based on several factors; such as failure to maintain adequate hygiene standards, insufficient response to outbreaks, or inadequate medical care provisions. Passengers who have suffered illness due to such circumstances may be eligible for compensation to address medical expenses, lost holiday time, and other associated damages.

Start your journey to compensation by calling 0161 813 2131. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your cruise ship illness claim with confidence and clarity. Or if you are ready to start your claim right away, complete our convenient online form and our solicitors will get in touch with you right away.