Cruise Ship Outbreak Leaves Nearly 100 Passengers Ill

On October 2nd, 2025, a norovirus outbreak was reported on the Royal Caribbean International cruise ship Serenade of the Seas, which was heading to Miami. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the outbreak, which has affected 94 of the 1,874 passengers and 4 crew members on board.

One of the affected passengers, 87-year-old Bob Pettit, described the illness as hitting him "hard, violently." Pettit, who is on the 13-day cruise with his son Josh, said he had never been this sick in his life, experiencing symptoms such as an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. The father and son have been extra cautious, observing the crew's efforts to wipe down surfaces and encourage handwashing.

The cruise line has stated that the health and safety of its guests, crew, and the communities it visits are its top priority. A spokesperson said the company has implemented rigorous cleaning procedures, many of which exceed public health guidelines, to maintain a safe environment on board. This is the third norovirus outbreak on a Royal Caribbean ship this year.

Despite the outbreak, Bob and Josh Pettit are already looking forward to their next cruise, hoping that the situation has improved by then.