Hantavirus cruise ship | MV Hondius returns to the Netherlands for disinfection

Hantavirus Outbreak Forces Cruise Ship MV Hondius Back to Rotterdam for Urgent Disinfection

Live from the Netherlands this morning, the vessel at the heart of a serious hantavirus scare has docked in Rotterdam for a full decontamination.

The MV Hondius, a popular expedition cruise ship, arrived back in Dutch waters earlier today after health authorities raised the alarm over a deadly outbreak. Passengers and crew are now being monitored closely as UK Health Security Agency officials update British travellers who may have come into contact with the virus.

A Tense Return to Port

Footage from Rotterdam this morning showed the distinctive white hull of the Hondius gliding slowly into the harbour under grey skies. Maritime officials in high-visibility jackets stood ready on the quayside, preparing for what promises to be a thorough disinfection operation.

The ship had been sailing in northern waters when symptoms first appeared among passengers. Hantavirus, carried by rodents and sometimes transmitted through contaminated surfaces, can cause severe respiratory illness. One death has already been linked to the outbreak, prompting swift action from Dutch and British health bodies alike.

UKHSA Issues Fresh Guidance

Earlier today the UK Health Security Agency released an update for British nationals who travelled on recent voyages. Contacts are being traced and advised to watch for flu-like symptoms. Those returning to the United Kingdom are urged to contact NHS 111 if they feel unwell.

Health experts stress that while hantavirus is rare, swift isolation and cleaning of affected vessels remain essential. The agency continues to work with its counterparts in the Netherlands to ensure no further cases slip through the net.

What Happens Next

Disinfection teams will spend the coming days scrubbing every cabin, corridor and common area. The process is expected to last at least 48 hours before the ship is declared safe for future sailings.

Passengers stranded in the Netherlands are being offered alternative accommodation and repatriation support. Many Britons among them have already been in touch with the Foreign Office for advice.

Public Reaction

Social media has been alive with concern from holidaymakers who had booked future trips on similar vessels. Cruise operators across the industry are reviewing their rodent-control procedures in light of the incident.

One British traveller, speaking from Rotterdam this afternoon, described the mood on board as "anxious but relieved that authorities are taking it seriously."

Source: Sky News via YouTube — 2026-05-18T09:32:06+00:00.