Virus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Grounds Vessel in Tenerife

A Dutch cruise ship struck by a deadly hantavirus outbreak has been temporarily docked in Tenerife as rough seas complicate evacuation efforts. The MV Hondius, originally sailing from Argentina to Cape Verde, was forced to pull into the port of Granadilla on Spain’s Canary Island after weather conditions turned hazardous. Spanish health authorities confirmed the ship remains moored under port captain’s orders to allow a safer, phased disembarkation. The World Health Organization has verified seven cases of hantavirus on board, with three fatalities. The virus, which can cause severe respiratory distress, first emerged during the voyage. Passengers and a portion of the crew are now being taken off in stages and repatriated. Once everyone is ashore, the vessel will continue to the Netherlands for a full disinfection. Spanish officials are coordinating the operation to minimize further risk, while the ship’s operator works with international health agencies. The MV Hondius had already stopped in Cape Verde before arriving off Tenerife. For now, the liner sits idle under gray skies, its decks quiet as health teams move through the cabins. The incident marks one of the most serious health emergencies on a cruise ship in recent years, raising fresh questions about disease protocols at sea.