Hondius cleaning and disinfection procedures are now underway in Rotterdam after the expedition cruise vessel arrived safely on May 18. According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the ship docked at 11:00 local time with no symptomatic individuals onboard.
The company confirmed that 20 crew members and two medical staff from the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment disembarked after arrival. They are now staying at a specialized quarantine facility.
In addition, five crew members remain onboard. However, they will leave the vessel later under coordinated quarantine and sanitation procedures.
Cleaning Process Underway in Rotterdam
Oceanwide Expeditions selected EWS Group to carry out the vessel’s cleaning and disinfection work. The company has previous experience with large-scale ship sanitation projects, including operations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the process will take between three and four days. After the work is completed, EWS Group confirmed the vessel will be safe to return to service.
The incident highlights how cruise and expedition operators continue to maintain strict health and sanitation standards. Even after pandemic-era restrictions eased, many operators retained enhanced cleaning procedures to reduce operational disruptions and protect passenger confidence.
Two Hondius Voyages Cancelled
To complete the sanitation process, Oceanwide Expeditions cancelled two scheduled sailings aboard the Hondius.
The affected departures include:
- May 29 to June 5
- June 5 to June 13
The company said all affected guests and travel partners have already received notifications. Rebooking options and additional travel details were also provided.
Operations Resume in June
Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed that all voyages from June 13 onward will continue as scheduled.
The Hondius is expected to resume operations on June 13 with a departure from Longyearbyen.
