Tui Cruises’ ship Mein Schiff 6 is continuing with its Greek sailing after 12 crew members tested positive for Covid-19.
The line has isolated all the affected crew members and is currently undertaking secondary tests – of which six have so far tested negative.
Tui Cruises said “there is no reason for guests and crew to worry” and that it has “extensive hygiene measures and distance rules on board”,
In a statement, the line said: “In the course of the early warning system, which is a key component of Tui Cruises’ health and hygiene concept, the crew is regularly tested for Covid-19. On Monday morning we received positive test results from 12 crew members of Mein Schiff 6 from an external laboratory. The entire crew has not become conspicuous in the last 14 days. None of the 12 crew members has any symptoms.
“To rule out the unlikely case of infection, the persons concerned are currently being tested again with our PCR rapid test device on board. These tests are currently being conducted, half of the results already came out to be negative (6 out of 12 / status: 4:30 pm). We expect an overall status by tomorrow latest. In addition, we will take further swabs from the crew members and send them to an external laboratory.
“As a pure precautionary measure and in accordance with the strict procedures for resuming cruise operations, which have been agreed with the authorities in Greece, the persons concerned were immediately isolated on board.
“We have prepared very carefully for the resumption of cruises in these exceptional times, both on land and on board, and have coordinated all processes with the relevant authorities. In addition to prevention before and during the voyage, extensive hygiene measures and distance rules on board, Tui Cruises also has defined processes on board in case of a positive Covid-19 case, which are now taking effect.
“We will stick original itinerary and sail Piraeus tomorrow, this has been decided in accordance with the Greek authorities.
“Thanks to the extensive hygiene measures and clearance rules on board, there is no reason for guests and crew to worry.”