Important Facts to Know
- A norovirus outbreak has affected 76 people on the Westerdam but only three active cases remained by the time the ship reached Hong Kong.
- The 28-night Asia itinerary remains unchanged with upcoming stops in the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan scheduled as planned.
- Enhanced cleaning and sanitation protocols were implemented in Hong Kong while health officials inspected food safety and hygiene practices.
- Philippine health authorities have been notified and are prepared to conduct further assessments when the ship arrives at Palawan Island on March 4.
Holland America Line’s Westerdam is currently managing a norovirus outbreak during its 28-night Asia itinerary. The vessel, which departed from Tokyo on February 15, 2026, was met by health officials from Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection (CHP) on March 1. The inspection followed reports that 76 individuals, including 65 guests and 11 crew members, had experienced symptoms consistent with norovirus, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. The affected individuals range in age from 24 to 92, representing roughly three percent of the passengers currently on board.
The CHP investigation confirmed the presence of norovirus through preliminary testing. During the ship’s stop in Hong Kong, authorities conducted a thorough inspection of food hygiene practices and supervised extensive disinfection procedures. While passengers were off the ship, a temporary medical station was established at the cruise terminal to assess the health of those on board. Officials noted that the cases did not appear simultaneously; the first infections were reported at the start of the cruise two weeks ago, and by the time the ship reached Hong Kong, only three active cases remained. No passengers have required hospitalization or major medical intervention.
Despite the health investigation, Holland America Line has confirmed that the Westerdam will maintain its original schedule. The ship is due to arrive at Palawan Island in the Philippines on March 4, with subsequent calls at Boracay and Manila. Philippine health authorities have already been briefed on the situation to prepare for the ship’s arrival. The voyage will continue through Taiwan and Japan before concluding in Tokyo on March 15. The cruise line and health officials emphasize that standard sanitation measures have been heightened to prevent further transmission among the approximately 2,000 guests and 800 crew members.
