Tui Cruises was thrust into the spotlight this week when it was reported than 12 of its crew on Mein Schiff 6 had tested positive for Covid-19.

The crew was immediately put into isolation, and secondary tests were performed.

Following the news, Mein Schiff 6 carried on with its scheduled itinerary around Greece, heading into Piraeus (Athens).

Now, the cruise line has confirmed that the scare was a “false alarm”.

Tui Cruises has confirmed the Greek authorities found no cases on board the ship, thanking the Greek authorities for their responsible and professional cooperation.

In a statement, the cruise line said: “Following a false alarm caused by a report of 12 positive test results on crew by a land-based laboratory, three further tests, including two PCR tests and one antigen test, have confirmed the results: there are no cases of Covid-19 on board Mein Schiff 6.

“This was confirmed by the Greek authorities this afternoon (29 September).”

Wybcke Meier, chief executive of the cruise line, said: “The safety of the guests, the crew, but also the Greek population is the top priority for TUI Cruises.

“I would like to thank all the responsible authorities for their good and professional cooperation in connection with the unclear test results on board Mein Schiff 6 and I am pleased that the voyage can be continued for all guests tomorrow with shore excursions in Piraeus.”

The tests were initially carried out due to Tui Cruises’ new enhanced health and safety protocols, which include regular testing of the crew.

Following the crew members testing positive and defending the decision to keep sailing, a spokesperson for the line said “there is no reason for guests and crew to worry” and there are “extensive hygiene measures and distance rules on board”.

German cruise line Tui Cruises was the first large cruise line to resume cruising in Greece earlier this month, with sailings aimed at Germans who flew to the ship on chartered flights from Germany.