Norovirus Outbreak in National Geographic Sea Bird Cruise

Alaska, United States

Update June 10th, 2026:
The CDC has confirmed norovirus as the cause of the gastrointestinal illness outbreak aboard the National Geographic Sea Bird during its May 26–31, 2026 voyage. Previously, the causative agent had not been identified.

Due to continued cases on subsequent sailings, the CDC's Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) conducted an on-site environmental assessment and outbreak investigation during the May 31–June 5 and June 5–10, 2026 voyages. VSP continues to work with Lindblad Expeditions and the Alaska Departments of Health and Environmental Conservation to monitor the situation.

The final case counts for the original voyage remain unchanged at 9 ill passengers and 3 ill crew members.

Source: CDC


June 1st, 2026:
Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Sea Bird cruise ship experienced a gastrointestinal illness outbreak during its May 26-31, 2026 voyage. Nine passengers and three crew members reported symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. The outbreak, affecting 13.6% of passengers and 12.5% of crew, was reported to the Vessel Sanitation Program on May 28, 2026.

The cause of the outbreak remains unknown as no samples were provided for testing. The affected individuals experienced predominant symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. Lindblad Expeditions implemented increased cleaning and disinfection procedures, isolated ill individuals, and consulted with the Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) to ensure proper sanitation and reporting protocols were followed.

The outbreak was discovered when passengers and crew reported their symptoms to the ship's medical center, which allowed for quick detection and response. The VSP remotely monitored the situation, reviewing the ship's outbreak response and sanitation procedures to help manage and contain the illness.

Source: www.cdc.gov/vessel-sanitation/cruise-ship-outbreaks/national-geographic-sea-bird-may-2026.html