Quick Read
- Over 100 people fell ill with gastrointestinal symptoms on Celebrity Eclipse in December 2025.
- CDC has not yet identified the causative agent; investigations are ongoing.
- Celebrity Cruises implemented enhanced cleaning and isolation protocols during the outbreak.
- A separate safety incident occurred in Juneau, Alaska, when strong winds broke the ship loose from the dock.
- Cruise ships account for only 1% of reported illness outbreaks despite public perception.
December 2025 brought an unexpected test of resilience for Celebrity Cruises, one of the industry’s leading brands. As the year drew to a close, its flagship vessel, the Celebrity Eclipse, found itself at the center of two headline-making incidents: a gastrointestinal illness outbreak and a dramatic safety scare in Alaska.
The eight-day Caribbean cruise aboard Celebrity Eclipse, which departed from Fort Lauderdale on December 20, was meant to offer guests a festive escape through turquoise waters and sun-drenched ports including Antigua, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. But for 104 people—95 passengers and 9 crew—the holiday trip took a troubling turn. According to USA TODAY and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these guests reported symptoms including vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea during the voyage, which concluded on December 28.
While gastrointestinal outbreaks are not unheard of on cruise ships, this incident crossed the CDC’s 3% threshold for mandatory reporting, triggering a swift and transparent response from both the cruise line and health authorities. The causative agent, however, remains a mystery—tests and sample collection are ongoing, but no virus or bacteria has been definitively identified so far (Cruise Hive).
Onboard, the reaction was immediate. Crew members ramped up cleaning and disinfection protocols, focusing on high-touch public areas and shared spaces. Sick guests and crew were isolated, and health advisories were issued, urging everyone to practice vigilant hand hygiene and minimize contact with frequently touched surfaces. It’s a familiar drill in the cruise industry, where close quarters can accelerate the spread of illness but also facilitate rapid containment when protocols are followed.
Notably, this was the first such outbreak reported for Celebrity Cruises in 2025, though it marked the twenty-second incident across all cruise lines that met CDC’s criteria for public notification this year. Most outbreaks have been linked to norovirus—a highly contagious virus notorious for causing similar symptoms in closed environments such as cruise ships, nursing homes, and day care centers. Yet, as experts like Sarah R. Michaels from Tulane University’s School of Public Health emphasize, cruises account for just 1% of all reported outbreaks, challenging the stereotype that ships are floating petri dishes. “Outbreaks are often taking place within the community, and oftentimes we don’t know that they’re happening,” Michaels told USA TODAY.
The December outbreak wasn’t the only challenge for Celebrity Eclipse. During a port stop in Juneau, Alaska, strong winds broke the ship loose from its dock—a rare and nerve-wracking event. The captain’s skillful maneuvering brought the vessel safely back, averting potential disaster for the 3,042 guests aboard. The incident was handled without injury or major disruption, but it underscored the unpredictable nature of cruise travel and the importance of robust safety procedures (SSBCRACK News).
Celebrity Cruises, operated under Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., is known for its emphasis on luxury, innovative amenities, and diverse itineraries. The company manages a fleet of Solstice-class ships like Eclipse, as well as other brands including Royal Caribbean International and Silversea Cruises (MarketBeat). The cruise sector, as a whole, remains sensitive to global health trends and consumer confidence, with outbreaks and safety scares impacting reputation and, sometimes, stock performance.
For travelers, the lessons of December 2025 are clear. Illness outbreaks can occur anywhere people gather in close quarters, but cruise lines like Celebrity have established protocols to mitigate risks and respond quickly. Guests are encouraged to follow health advisories: wash hands thoroughly after restroom use and before eating, avoid unnecessary contact with communal surfaces, and report symptoms promptly to onboard medical staff. Packing extra hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes is now as essential as bringing sunscreen.
Despite the headlines, the majority of cruise sailings proceed without incident, and thousands of guests continue to enjoy memorable vacations on the open sea. The recent events aboard Celebrity Eclipse serve as a reminder that vigilance, transparency, and swift action remain the best safeguards for passenger health and safety.
As the industry moves into 2026, cruise lines are expected to further refine health protocols, invest in improved onboard medical facilities, and educate passengers about best practices. The balance between adventure and caution—between escape and preparedness—defines the modern cruise experience. For now, travelers are advised to stay informed, pack wisely, and choose itineraries that excite them, knowing that cruise operators and health authorities are working diligently behind the scenes to keep journeys safe.
Based on the available facts, the incidents aboard Celebrity Eclipse in December 2025 highlight both the strengths and vulnerabilities of cruise travel today. While outbreaks and safety scares can disrupt vacations, the industry’s evolving protocols and transparent reporting continue to build trust. Ultimately, a cruise is a unique blend of community, adventure, and responsibility—where preparedness is just as vital as relaxation.