Mauritius has prevented a Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings ship from docking at its ports due to what it considers to be a health risk. Samples were taken from around 15 passengers who were isolated on board, the port authority said on Sunday.
The Norwegian Dawn was scheduled to dock in Port Louis this Sunday (25), but as it had not gone to Reunion Island, it arrived a day earlier in Port Louis, Mauritius.
The local port authority said in a statement that “the decision not to allow the cruise ship access to the pier was taken to avoid any health risks.” And he added: “The health and safety of passengers, as well as that of the country as a whole, are of utmost importance to the authorities.”
No details were disclosed about the nature of the health risk. The expectation is that test results will be known within 48 hours.
A spokesperson for U.S.-based Norwegian Cruise Line said in a statement that during the ship's voyage to South Africa on Feb. 13, some passengers experienced mild symptoms of a stomach illness.
In Port Louis, the ship's management worked with local authorities to ensure precautions were taken and that everyone on board was safe, the spokesperson said.
Health Ministry officials could not immediately be reached for comment.
The ship has 2,184 passengers and 1,026 crew.
According to the port authority, around 2,000 passengers were expected to disembark in Port Louis after completing the cruise and another 2,279 new passengers were expected to board the ship.
“Passengers who were due to board the 'Norwegian Dawn' and begin their cruise from Mauritius today will not be able to do so due to potential health risks,” he said.
Tourism is one of the main drivers of the islands' economy.
Source: CNN Brasil
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