The Ministry of Health and Human Services says it is aware of concerns raised regarding the arrival of the Caribbean Princess cruise ship in Grand Turk on 15 May 2026, and wishes to reassure the public that all appropriate public health measures have been implemented to safeguard residents and visitors.
The Minister and Ministry of Health and Human Services confirms that its Public Health Team has maintained close and continuous communication with the ship’s medical personnel, as well as key stakeholders at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre and Carnival Cruise Line, to monitor the situation and ensure compliance with established health and safety protocols.
The Caribbean Princess previously experienced a norovirus outbreak, a common viral illness that can cause symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. Following the incident, the vessel returned to Florida where passengers disembarked and comprehensive sanitization and deep-cleaning procedures were completed before the ship resumed operations.
Based on ongoing assessments, communication with the vessel, and established port health protocols, the Ministry advises that there are currently no public health concerns associated with the ship’s arrival in Grand Turk. As part of standard operating procedures, the Port Health Team conducted routine inspections and coordinated with relevant stakeholders at the Grand Turk Cruise Centre before and after the vessel’s arrival. As an additional precautionary measure, the Ministry is encouraging members of the public – including vendors, taxi operators, tour operators, and business establishments to continue maintaining high standards of routine cleaning and sanitization. These preventative measures support ongoing efforts to minimize potential health risks and protect the well-being of the community.
The public is also reminded that frequent handwashing with soap and water remains one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of norovirus and other infectious illnesses. The Ministry of Health and Human Services remains committed to protecting public health and will continue to monitor all points of entry in accordance with international health regulations and national public health guidelines.
