Luxury Cruise Turns Chaotic as Norovirus Sickens Dozens at Sea
A fall foliage cruise through Canada and New England has taken a turn for the worse after dozens of passengers aboard Oceania Cruises’ Insignia fell sick with symptoms of norovirus during the 11-night voyage.
Dozens Sick Mid-Voyage
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 74 of the 637 guests and one crew member on Insignia reported vomiting and diarrhea by October 20, 2025.
The ship departed Montreal on October 16 for an itinerary through Quebec, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, and Maine, and is scheduled to conclude in Boston on October 27.
Response and Containment Measures
Once the outbreak was confirmed, Oceania Cruises implemented its CDC-approved outbreak protocol. Ill passengers and crew were isolated in their cabins, public areas received extra cleaning, and self-service options in dining venues were suspended to limit contact with shared utensils. “The health and safety of our guests is the number one priority,” the line said in a statement. “All guests experiencing symptoms are being treated under CDC guidelines.”
The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) is remotely monitoring the situation, reviewing the ship’s sanitation efforts and containment procedures. Because the number of sick guests surpassed the 3 percent reporting threshold—roughly 11 percent of passengers—the line was required to notify U.S. health officials.
A Difficult Year for Cruise Health Reports
This incident marks the 20th gastrointestinal outbreak of 2025, 15 of which have been attributed to norovirus. Earlier this year, ships from Holland America, Royal Caribbean, and other lines also reported cases. In comparison, 18 outbreaks were recorded in 2024.
Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes acute gastroenteritis, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. It spreads easily in close-contact environments like cruise ships, schools, and nursing homes. While most people recover within a few days, it can quickly infect large groups through contaminated food, surfaces, or person-to-person contact.
Despite its reputation as a “cruise virus,” the CDC notes that ships account for just 1 percent of reported norovirus outbreaks each year. Because cruises have robust testing and reporting systems, outbreaks are more likely to be identified and logged compared to those on land.
CDC Advice for Travelers
The CDC advises passengers to wash their hands frequently with soap and water—especially before eating and after using the restroom—since alcohol-based sanitizers are less effective against norovirus. Guests who develop symptoms should report to the medical team immediately and remain isolated until cleared.
As Insignia sails toward Boston, the ship continues to operate under enhanced sanitation while affected guests recover. For Oceania Cruises, this is the first norovirus outbreak publicly recorded in 2025, and officials are working closely with health authorities to prevent further spread.
