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Coronavirus: Criminal investigation launched into Ruby Princess disembarkation

Ruby Princess coronavirus

Authorities in Australia have announced that they are launching a criminal investigation into the disembarkation of Ruby Princess passengers in Sydney.

The cruise ship docked in Sydney on 19 March after an 11-day cruise, with approximately 2,700 passengers on board.

Since the ship docked, more than 600 passengers on board have tested positive for the coronavirus and 11 passengers have reportedly died.

So far, Australia has reported 5,548 coronavirus cases and 30 deaths.

Police in New South Wales have now launched a criminal investigation into whether national biosecurity laws were broken.

New South Wales police commissioner Mick Fuller was reported to have said: “The only way I can get to the bottom of whether our national biosecurity laws and our state laws were broken is through a criminal investigation.”

No cases of coronavirus are understood to have been identified before the ship docked, but the initial four who tested positive had reported flu-like symptoms during the cruise and, along with their stateroom occupants, were in isolation on board the ship.

Ruby Princess remains off the coast with nearly 200 sick crew members on board.

Coral Princess, which has 12 confirmed cases of coronavirus on board, was given permission to dock in Miami on Saturday (4 April).

Guests have begun disembarking the ship, but this may take up to several days due to limited flight availability.

All guests will be screened as directed by the CDC before disembarkation of the vessel. During disembarkation, and until they reach their homes, they will also be required to wear a mask and practice social distancing measures.

Guests who are still recovering or suffering from respiratory symptoms have been told to remain on board until medically cleared by the ship’s doctors.

Our view:

The cruise industry is facing an unprecedented and ever-changing situation, and we are committed to keeping you informed with the most up-to-date news. However, we firmly believe that the cruise industry will bounce back. When it does, we’ll be on hand to help you get back to selling the cruises that people love.  

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