An outbreak of Covid-19 has occurred on the first major cruise ship to visit Western Australia in more than two years.
Around 100 passengers and crew have tested positive on the Coral Princess, reports news.com.au.
The ship, which has a capacity of around 2000, had just visited the town of Broome where local businesses welcomed its return. It is believed that there are 1900 passengers on board.
A Western Australia Health spokesperson confirmed the outbreak: “WA Health has been advised of passengers and crew testing positive to Covid-19, and this evolving situation is being managed by the vessel operator according to its Covid-19 plan.
READ MORE:
* Ahoy Wellington! First cruise ship in 2½ years docks in capital
* First cruise ship season in more than 11 years a ‘game-changer’ for businesses
* Cruises are back – here’s your quick guide to the ships sailing around New Zealand
“Under the protocols, those onboard vessels who have Covid should isolate for five days,” reported the ABC.
A spokesperson for Princess Cruises said the outbreak was being managed “effectively” and that the ship would continue on its itinerary.
“Coral Princess is scheduled to depart from Broome this evening (October 24) on her itinerary that includes Geraldton, Fremantle, Busselton and Albany before returning to Sydney next month," the spokesperson said.
It is not the first outbreak to occur on the ship since the resumption of cruising around Australia.
In June, dozens of crew members tested positive for coronavirus.
Meanwhile, cruise ships are starting to return en masse to New Zealand waters.
While the Pacific Explorer made a guest appearance in Auckland back in August, the season is only now starting to get into full swing with several ships around the country.
© 2022 Stuff Limited
Covid outbreak on cruise ship off Australia – Stuff
