Over 100 Passengers File Claims After Norovirus Outbreaks on P&O Ventura: Incident on 17 November 2024

Between April and June 2024, the P&O Cruises vessel Ventura experienced multiple norovirus outbreaks affecting hundreds of passengers across several sailings. Over 100 passengers have since filed compensation claims through Hudgell Solicitors, citing illness, loss of enjoyment, and associated expenses during their cruises.

P&O confirmed the outbreaks and implemented containment measures including closure of self-service buffets, shutdown of onboard launderettes, deep-cleaning, and isolation of symptomatic passengers. The operator has apologized and stated it will respond to the claims in due course.

A significant norovirus outbreak occurred in May 2024 during a 2-week Canary Islands cruise, with over 500 passengers reporting symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. Earlier sailings in April also recorded high numbers of passengers falling ill with confirmed norovirus. The legal claims allege that P&O downplayed the severity of the outbreaks during the affected voyages.

Vessel

• Name: P&O Ventura
• Operator: P&O Cruises
• Type: Large cruise ship

Voyages affected

• Multiple sailings between April and June 2024
• Notable incident: 2-week Canary Islands cruise in May 2024

Passengers affected

• Over 500 passengers reported norovirus symptoms during the May Canary Islands sailing
• Additional passengers fell ill on April sailings
• Over 100 passengers have filed compensation claims

Fatalities

• None reported.

Injuries

• Over 500 passengers reported symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea consistent with norovirus infection during the May sailing; additional cases on April sailings.

Rescued

• All passengers remained onboard and received medical support and isolation as required.

P&O implemented immediate containment measures including closure of self-service buffets, shutdown of onboard launderettes, comprehensive deep-cleaning of the vessel, and isolation of symptomatic passengers to prevent further transmission.

Over 100 passengers have filed compensation claims against P&O Cruises through Hudgell Solicitors. The claims seek compensation for illness, loss of enjoyment of the cruise, and associated expenses. P&O has apologized for the outbreaks and stated it will respond to the claims in due course.

• Legal representation (Hudgell Solicitors): Claims regarding norovirus outbreaks on P&O Ventura
• P&O Cruises: Customer service for claim inquiries and passenger support