Norovirus nightmare at sea: passenger recalls chaotic Ruby Princess Alaska cruise

A Ruby Princess 20-day Alaska cruise experienced a norovirus outbreak that sickened more than 100 passengers and about 20 crew. Passengers were urged to report symptoms as the ship underwent deep cleaning and non-self-serve meals, with quarantines for those affected. The CDC reported 3.4% of the 3,032 passengers and 2% of the 1,144 crew fell ill, and the vessel returned to San Francisco for comprehensive disinfection, after which illnesses declined. The passenger, Peter Korer, who didn’t fall ill, described the ship as a “floating Petri dish” and noted precautions and sanitization in place, while later boarding another cruise; Princess Cruises said illness was limited and highlighted ongoing sanitation protocols, with previous outbreaks on other Princess ships this year.