Marco Polo Hit By Norovirus During Christmas Cruise

Marco Polo has been hit by the dreaded norovirus and numerous passengers and crew have fallen ill.

The Marco Polo was on a christmas cruise to Tenerife when the vomiting bug struck. The ship carrying 738 passengers and 360 crew was due back into Tilbury docks in London this morning.

Accdording to reports at least 30 passengers have been affected and 10 or so members of staff. All were isolated in their cabins and treat by medical staff but this is not the first time Marco Polo has been an incubator for the bug, back in July 2009 when over 350 people were affected and the cruise following was ultimately cancelled.

One passenger onboard Marco Polo commented "the festive trip had turned into a nightmare. She said: “There are bags marked human waste everywhere and staff are wearing mask".

"It is like something out of a film. They have closed the coffee stations but the bar is still open. But all the public toilets have been shut and we have been told to use our own in our cabins."

"But our cabin is miles away from anywhere. The trip has been a complete disaster.”

Tour operator Cruise & Maritime confirmed that a small number of passengers had fallen ill with the norovirus. The ship will be disinfected today before setting off on another cruise tonight and passengers on the new trip will be told what has happened.

Cruise & Maritime director Richard Bastow said: “We strictly follow and adhere to health protection protocols and take all possible measures to ensure our passengers and crew are fully aware and reminded of the importance of good hygienic practices on board.

“The ship is regularly inspected by UK Port Health Authorities and in common with all other cruise lines we will continue to work closely with the relevant authorities and follow their recommendations and guidelines.”