Grand Princess passengers quarantined off the coast of California has finished disembarkation, with all passengers now off the ship.

British passengers who were on the ship are expected back in the UK today (12 March) on a government repatriation flight.

When passengers started to disembark on 9 March, a Princess Cruises spokesperson said: “Princess Cruises can confirm that disembarkation of guests onboard Grand Princess is expected to begin in the Port of Oakland, Monday, March 9 – official timing to be determined. We received official confirmation during a press conference held by California Governor Gavin Newsom and others.

“Disembarkation will commence in order of priority, as defined and directed by both state and local authorities. It is expected to be a multiple day process.

“The U.S. Coast Guard will be sending California Health & Human Services teams to assist with medical triage, screening and interviews, and prioritising those who require the most acute care. To avoid delays, testing will be conducted when guests arrive at their onward destination.

“All of us at Princess Cruises offer our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the federal, state and local authorities who are coordinating, collaborating and activating resources and personnel in support of this response to provide care and attend to the health and well-being of our guests and crew,” said Jan Swartz, president of Princess Cruises.

“Once disembarkation of the guests is completed, the crew will remain on board and Grand Princess will depart from San Francisco bay. Plans for a crew quarantine are still being determined.

“The safety, health and well-being of our guests and crew is always our top priority, and we continue to make every effort to ensure they are safe and comfortable while they remain on board.”

Grand Princess was put under quarantine last week after a passenger on a previous cruise died from the disease. A total of 21 people, including two guests and 19 crew members, tested positive on Friday (6 March).

There are a total of 3,533 people currently onboard Grand Princess, including 2,422 guests and 1,111 crew members. In total, they represent 54 nationalities, with more than 140 Britons reportedly on board.

The Foreign Office has said it is working with US authorities to organise flights for an estimated 140 British nationals on Grand Princess.

Last month, Grand Princess‘ sister ship Diamond Princess was put under quarantine for over two weeks following an outbreak of coronavirus on board, with more than 700 passengers testing positive. Six passengers, including one from Britain, died from the virus.

Meanwhile, Princess Cruises announced  that it has temporarily amended its cancellation policy for cruises and cruise tours departing up to 31 May. Other cruise lines have also announced that they are easing their cancellation policies in light of coronavirus, including Silversea.

For the latest advice on coronavirus, visit gov.uk.