Imagine being on a cruise, enjoying the luxury and the views, only to be hit by a sudden and unpleasant surprise - a major sickness bug outbreak! That's exactly what happened to hundreds of passengers on Fred Olsen's The Balmoral. But here's where it gets controversial... While some passengers were forced into isolation due to the outbreak, others were left wondering if the cruise line could have done more to prevent the spread of the highly contagious stomach bug. The Balmoral was set to dock in Lerwick, Shetland, on January 27, but the visit was cancelled after the island was battered by stormy weather. Around 200 people are thought to be ill onboard the vessel, which can carry more than 1,200 passengers. Dr Kate Bunyan, director of health services at Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, said, 'A number of guests on board Balmoral have reported symptoms of gastrointestinal-related illness during her 10-night 'Wintertime Landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords' cruise.' She added, 'We have immediately implemented measures to help reduce transmission, and our medical team is on hand to provide support to anyone who should feel unwell during the cruise.' The Balmoral is set to return to port at Southampton later today, and the ship will set sail 'a little later' so a deep clean can take place. Dr Bunyan continued, 'The safety and wellbeing of our guests and crew is our highest priority, and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has robust health, hygiene, and safety protocols in place at all times.' Are you onboard Fred Olsen's The Balmoral? Contact webnews@mirror.co.uk. But what do you think? Could the cruise line have done more to prevent the outbreak? Or is it just a matter of bad luck? Let us know in the comments below!
