Over 1,000 Passengers Held on UK Cruise Ship in Bordeaux After Illness Outbreak

Over 1,000 passengers remain onboard the Ambition cruise ship in Bordeaux, France, after a gastrointestinal illness outbreak led to the isolation of 49 individuals. Local health officials have prohibited disembarkation as tests are conducted, noting that three passengers have been confined to their cabins.

Ambassador Cruise Line confirmed that as of Wednesday, 48 passengers and one crew member exhibited symptoms consistent with gastrointestinal illness. The vessel, carrying 1,187 guests and 514 crew, departed Belfast on 8 May, stopping in Liverpool the following day, where an increase in cases was reportedly observed.

The cruise operator stated that enhanced sanitation and prevention protocols have been implemented across the ship, including intensified cleaning and disinfection in public areas. Passengers have been advised on hand hygiene and prompt reporting of symptoms to the onboard medical team. French health authorities dispatched a medical team to assess the situation, with samples sent to Bordeaux University Hospital for analysis. Results are anticipated within six hours.

Separately, a 92-year-old man died onboard on Sunday, though the cruise line maintains he did not report symptoms related to the outbreak. The cause of death is pending a coroner's investigation.