CDC Reports Norovirus Outbreak on Cruise Departing Fort Lauderdale

More than 100 passengers and crew members became ill during a norovirus outbreak aboard the Caribbean Princess, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The ship departed from Fort Lauderdale and was scheduled to return to Port Canaveral on Monday, May 11.

The CDC reported that 102 passengers and 13 crew members experienced symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea during the 14-day voyage. The outbreak was officially reported to the agency’s Vessel Sanitation Program on Thursday, May 7.

In response, the cruise line implemented enhanced sanitation and disinfection procedures throughout the vessel. According to the CDC, infected passengers and crew were isolated, while stool samples were collected for laboratory testing. The ship was also set to undergo an extensive deep cleaning once it returned to Florida.

Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that commonly causes gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms often include nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea, and the virus spreads quickly in close quarters through contaminated surfaces, food, or person-to-person contact. Cruise ships are particularly vulnerable because of shared dining areas, common spaces, and large numbers of passengers in confined environments.

The Caribbean Princess was carrying more than 3,100 passengers during the voyage, according to reports. Health officials continue investigating the source of the outbreak.

The incident marks another high-profile cruise ship illness outbreak in 2026. Earlier this year, another Princess Cruises ship reportedly experienced a separate norovirus outbreak affecting passengers and crew members.

Ava McDonnell

Ava McDonnell is the Digital Content Creator/Editorial Manager for Central Florida Lifestyle Magazine while also earning her bachelor's degree in English at the University of Central Florida. Her work has been featured in UCF's The Charge and Her Campus UCF. She also has experience in editing using AP Style and SEO guidelines. Located in Clermont, Ava has always had a passion for learning about people's lives and sharing accurate stories with the world. She is dedicated to getting the job done right while making content interesting for readers. Aside from writing, you can find her indulging in the great outdoors with the people she loves. Whether it is hiking, taking photographs, or trying new activities, she is up for almost anything.

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