The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program reveals shocking hygiene violations on major cruise ships, raising concerns for passenger safety.
At a Glance
- CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program evaluates cruise ship cleanliness, with scores below 86 considered failing
- Hapag-Lloyd’s Hanseatic Inspiration received the lowest score of 62, with serious hygiene violations
- Nine ships scored below 90, including vessels from Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Princess Cruises
- 13 bacterial and viral outbreaks were reported on ships in 2024, mostly norovirus
- 151 inspections were conducted in 2024, with 27 vessels achieving perfect scores
CDC Vessel Sanitation Program Unveils Troubling Findings
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s annual Vessel Sanitation Program has released its 2024 findings, exposing alarming hygiene issues on several popular cruise ships. The program, designed to prevent the spread of gastrointestinal illnesses like norovirus, conducts rigorous inspections of food preparation areas, sanitation infrastructure, and waste disposal systems. A score of 86 or higher is considered passing, while anything below indicates serious concerns requiring immediate action.
This year’s report has identified nine cruise ships that failed to meet the CDC’s stringent standards, raising questions about the overall cleanliness and safety of these floating vacation destinations. The findings have sent shockwaves through the cruise industry and left many potential passengers reconsidering their travel plans.
These are the 10 dirtiest cruise ships, according to the CDC — including an ultra-luxury vessel https://t.co/kgFMOrvEyn
— Insider (@thisisinsider) October 12, 2024
Worst Offenders and Their Violations
Topping the list of non-compliant vessels is Hapag-Lloyd’s Hanseatic Inspiration, which received a shockingly low score of 62. Inspectors found numerous violations, including grime, insects, and improper food storage. These findings are particularly concerning given the close quarters and shared facilities on cruise ships, which can quickly become breeding grounds for pathogens if not properly maintained.
“We deeply regret that the HANSEATIC Inspiration did not achieve the required score for the first time. The result of this inspection in no way reflects our high standards,” said Karen Schmidt, a representative for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
Other ships with failing scores include Princess Cruises’ Caribbean Princess, Carnival’s Carnival Breeze, and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Evrima, all scoring 86. Inspectors reported issues such as insect infestations, inadequate pest prevention, and poor waste management on these vessels. The full list of non-compliant ships includes Carnival Elation, Adventure of the Seas, National Geographic Sea Bird, Carnival Miracle, and MSC Magnifica.
Industry Response and Improvement Efforts
In response to these troubling findings, some cruise lines have taken swift action to address the issues and improve their sanitation practices. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises expressed regret over their low score and committed to enhancing their processes across all areas of operation. MSC Cruises also responded to their failing grade, stating that the inspection results “is not a true reflection of the ship as it is today.”
It’s worth noting that not all news from the CDC report was negative. Several cruise ships achieved perfect scores of 100, including Carnival Spirit, Celebrity Ascent, Disney Fantasy, and Brilliance of the Seas. In total, 27 vessels received perfect scores out of the 151 inspections conducted in 2024, demonstrating that maintaining high standards of cleanliness is possible in the cruise industry.
Implications for Cruise Passengers
The CDC’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the potential health risks associated with cruise travel. In 2024, the agency reported 13 bacterial and viral outbreaks on ships, with norovirus being the most common culprit. These outbreaks can spread rapidly in the confined environment of a cruise ship, potentially ruining vacations and posing serious health risks to passengers, especially those who are elderly or immunocompromised.
Prospective cruise-goers are advised to research their chosen ship’s sanitation history before booking. The CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program website provides detailed inspection reports and scores for all ships that participate in the program. Passengers should also take personal precautions, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding potentially contaminated food or water sources while onboard. The CDC’s ongoing inspections and public reporting of results will likely play a crucial role in holding the industry accountable and driving improvements in shipboard hygiene practices.
