An ambulance boat carries crew members wearing hazmat suits as they approach the pilot door on the starboard side of the cruise ship MV Hondius.
Image: AFP
An emergency medical operation is currently underway off the coast of West Africa as specialised aircraft prepare to evacuate three individuals from the Dutch-flagged cruise ship, MV Hondius.
The vessel has been anchored in a strict "sanitary corridor" near the Port of Praia since May 4, after Cape Verdean authorities denied it permission to dock due to a deadly outbreak of hantavirus.
The vessel is carrying 149 passengers representing 23 different nationalities, as previously verified.
Since its arrival, there have been three confirmed fatalities, and one patient is currently in critical care in the hospital.
Hantavirus infections, according to the WHO's statement, are usually associated with environmental exposure, such as contact with the urine or faeces of infected rodents.
Oceanwide Expeditions, the Dutch tour operator, continues to provide updates regarding the medical situation onboard the MV Hondius, stating: “The vessel remains anchored offshore of Cape Verde. The planned transfer of three individuals from the vessel to specialised aircraft has not yet taken place. This is scheduled to occur this morning, Cape Verde local time.
“Once aboard the aircraft, these individuals, two of whom present acute symptoms, will be transferred to medical and screening facilities. The third individual is closely associated with the guest who passed away on board MV Hondius on 2 May 2026.
"Exact details will be shared when this planned transfer has taken place.”
Once the medical transfer is done, the MV Hondius is expected to head to the Canary Islands.
“Oceanwide Expeditions remains in close and continual discussion with relevant authorities regarding our exact point of arrival, quarantine and screening procedures for all guests, and a precise timeline. We are unable to confirm the details of onward travel for guests at this stage.
“This is dependent on medical advice and the outcome of stringent screening procedures. Close cooperation continues with local and international authorities, including the WHO, the RIVM, relevant embassies, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs.”
Meanwhile, travel blogger Jake Rosmarin, who went viral for an emotional video he posted while onboard, responded to a query by “Independent Media Lifestyle” on Tuesday, May 5.
He said: “Other than the two ill passengers that have been referenced in the media, everyone else onboard is doing well and remains in good spirits. We are hopeful that this situation will be resolved soon.
“Oceanwide Expeditions and the crew have been doing everything within their ability to keep passengers safe, informed, and as comfortable as possible during this time.”
Travel blogger Jake Rosmarin provides insight into what the situation is like aboard the MV Hondius post the hantavirus outbreak.
Image: Jake Rosmarin
Rosmarin continued: “It is also important to note that this is not a traditional cruise ship, but an expedition vessel. These ships operate with strict protocols and a strong emphasis on cleanliness, especially given the remote and environmentally sensitive regions they visit, which require high levels of biosecurity.
“The vessel is maintained to a very high standard, and suggestions that it is unclean are not accurate.
“Safety measures are in place, including social distancing and masking. Passengers also have the option to have meals delivered directly to their cabins.
“Access to the outer decks is permitted for fresh air, while gathering in indoor common areas such as the lounge is currently restricted.
“We continue to be well cared for, and additional medical provisions and supplies have been brought on board.
“At this time, we remain hopeful that the situation will be resolved soon.”
∎ This is a developing story.