Coral Princess Hit by Second Norovirus Outbreak in 2025

A second norovirus outbreak of the year has impacted passengers aboard Princess Cruises’ Coral Princess, marking another significant challenge for the cruise line during the 2025 winter season. According to reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 69 of the ship’s 1,906 passengers and 13 of its 895 crew members reported symptoms of gastrointestinal illness during the 16-night Panama Canal voyage from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale. The outbreak was formally reported to the CDC on March 7, 2025, two days before the voyage’s conclusion on March 9.

Details of the Outbreak

The illness, identified as norovirus, caused symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. Although cruise ships are often associated with norovirus due to their enclosed spaces and communal dining areas, the CDC notes that they account for only about 1% of reported cases worldwide. This incident marks the second norovirus event aboard the Coral Princess this year. During a January 2025 Panama Canal voyage, 128 passengers and 20 crew members became ill, highlighting ongoing challenges for both the vessel and Princess Cruises.

Princess Cruises stated that as soon as the first signs of illness emerged, it implemented enhanced sanitation protocols. These measures included complete disinfection of high-touch areas, isolation of guests exhibiting symptoms, and further health guidance for those on board. Upon arriving in Fort Lauderdale on March 9, the Coral Princess underwent additional disinfection before departing on its next scheduled Panama Canal itinerary later that same day.

Industry-wide Norovirus Challenges

The recent outbreak on the Coral Princess underscores wider norovirus concerns across the cruise industry. CDC data shows nine gastrointestinal outbreaks aboard cruise ships in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Many of these have been linked to norovirus, with similar incidents reported in January on vessels such as Viking’s Viking Mars and Holland America’s Volendam.

In December 2024, the CDC recorded 14 confirmed norovirus outbreaks on cruise ships. Vessels including Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess and Holland America’s Rotterdam faced similar challenges. Health officials emphasize that the virus spreads quickly in congregate settings—not only on ships but also in environments like nursing homes and schools.

Response and Preventative Measures

Princess Cruises, which aligns its practices with CDC Vessel Sanitation Program protocols, has repeatedly emphasized its dedication to health and safety. “We isolate individuals who show symptoms, carry out deep-cleaning procedures, and proactively test for illness,” a spokesperson for the cruise line noted. Despite these actions, recurrent norovirus outbreaks continue to highlight how difficult it is to prevent viral transmission in close-quarters travel settings.

Passengers are advised to wash their hands frequently, use hand sanitizers, and promptly notify onboard medical staff if they experience any symptoms. While travelers who were affected reportedly received medical attention aboard the ship, refunds or additional compensation were not publicly announced, consistent with most standard cruise contract agreements.

Impact on Cruise Itineraries

Despite the outbreak, the Coral Princess adhered to its planned schedule. Immediately after completing its journey from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, the ship embarked on a reverse 16-night Panama Canal voyage back to Los Angeles. According to Princess Cruises, the vessel will make several more transits of the Panama Canal before relocating to the U.S. West Coast and eventually to Vancouver, Canada, to begin its seasonal Alaska deployment.

Norovirus: A Broader Perspective

Norovirus is a global health concern beyond the cruise sector. Stanford Medicine’s Dr. Dean Winslow has pointed out that congregate settings, such as schools and nursing homes, are prevalent environments for transmission. Cruises draw significant public attention when outbreaks occur, but experts stress that the virus affects numerous industries and locales.

While norovirus symptoms typically last one to three days, individuals can remain contagious for up to two weeks. This prolongs the risk of secondary transmission and underscores the importance of rigorous hygiene, even after symptoms subside.

As the cruise sector manages ongoing pandemic-related shifts, repeated norovirus incidents pose both operational and reputational pressures. Operators continue to refine health protocols while maintaining passenger satisfaction. These outbreaks also remind travelers and industry stakeholders alike that vigilance in communal environments is essential in preventing the spread of communicable diseases.

Why is norovirus common on cruise ships?

Cruise ships’ enclosed environments, communal dining areas, and frequent passenger turnover create ideal conditions for norovirus outbreaks. Despite stringent cleaning measures, the highly contagious nature of the virus can make it difficult to contain.

What steps do cruise lines take during outbreaks?

When an outbreak is detected, enhanced sanitization protocols are put in place. Affected individuals are isolated, and health advisories are communicated to everyone on board. Ships also undergo deep-cleaning procedures after each voyage.

Can affected cruise passengers file for compensation?

Most cruise contracts include clauses that absolve companies of liability for illnesses contracted on board. While medical care is typically provided, refunds or other forms of compensation are rarely guaranteed unless specifically stated by the cruise line.

Are more outbreaks expected this season?

Although predicting norovirus outbreaks is difficult, the CDC has reported an uptick in incidents this cruise season. Many lines may increase safety measures in response to the ongoing concerns about viral spread.

How long does norovirus remain contagious?

Norovirus symptoms generally subside within one to three days, but an individual can remain contagious for up to two weeks. Continued attention to hygiene and sanitation is vital to prevent further transmission.