Passengers and crew have been held onboard Ambassador Cruise Lines’ Ambition near Bourdeaux after several cruisers tested positive for gastrointestinal illness (GII)

As of 11am on 13 May, there were 48 active guest cases of GII on the vessel, and one crew case. The ship has capacity for 1,187 guests and 514 crew members.

Ambassador also confirmed that a 92-year-old male guest on the sailing passed away on 10 May 2026. The line reported that the guest did not report any GII symptoms and the cause of death has yet to be established pending the coroner’s full report.

GII is the most common cause of the “winter vomiting bug” or “stomach flu” and, according to the line, is unrelated to Hantavirus, which dominated headlines last week following an outbreak on Oceanwide Expeditions’ MV Hondius.

The vessel was part way through a 14-night Delights of Western France & Spain Explorer sailing when the outbreak was confirmed. The ship departed Belfast on Friday 8 May and Liverpool on Saturday 9 May 2026, with figures reporting an increase in cases following the embarkation of guests in Liverpool.

A spokesperson for the line said: “We would like to reassure guests that we take any illnesses aboard our fleet extremely seriously. Enhanced sanitation and prevention protocols were immediately implemented across the ship in line with established public health procedures following the initial reports of illness.

“The comprehensive health and safety measures introduced include increased cleaning and disinfection measures in public areas, assisted service in selected dining venues and ongoing guidance to guests regarding hand hygiene, including regular hand washing, use of hand sanitisers and the prompt reporting of any symptoms to the onboard medical team.”

While the investigation and testing by shoreside and onboard medical teams are ongoing, all guests and crew have been instructed to remain on the vessel under the direction of the local shore authorities. Once clearance is granted, guests will be permitted to disembark.

As a result of these developments, all shore excursions scheduled for today have been cancelled and guests due to travel on excursions will receive a full refund.