Norovirus Outbreaks Surge on Cruise Ships in Early 2025

The CDC is monitoring two recent outbreaks on Florida-based ships, with over 250 passengers and crew affected this month alone.

A norovirus outbreak sickened 107 passengers and 12 crew members aboard Holland America’s ms Rotterdam during a 12-day Panama Canal cruise departing Fort Lauderdale on February 2.
A separate outbreak on Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas affected 160 passengers and 8 crew members before the ship docked on February 8, though the cause of that outbreak is still under investigation.
The CDC has recorded seven outbreaks of gastrointestinal illness on cruise ships in 2025, with four confirmed as norovirus, marking an unusually high number for this time of year.
Norovirus, often called the 'cruise ship virus,' spreads easily in close quarters but accounts for less than 1% of cases nationwide, according to the CDC.
Cruise lines have implemented enhanced cleaning protocols and isolation measures to mitigate the spread, while the CDC advises passengers to maintain strict hygiene practices.