Over 80 Cruise Passengers Seeking Compensation from Cruise Line After Getting Sick

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More passengers who sailed on the P&O Cruises ship Ventura earlier this year are seeking compensation after getting sick with gastrointestinal symptoms.

So far, more than 80 people have instructed law firms to pursue legal action against the cruise line, according to news reports.

The outbreak occurred in May during multiple sailings of the 3,078-passenger ship. Passengers reported experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and a cough.

In response, P&O Cruises implemented additional protocols, including delaying embarkation by up to seven hours, to address what they described as "elevated" levels of acute gastroenteritis.

However, despite these measures, affected passengers have filed lawsuits against the cruise line, alleging negligence and seeking compensation for their illness, pain, and suffering.

Law firms Hudgells, Irwin Mitchell, and JPS Walker Solicitors are representing the passengers.

Anne Thomson, senior litigation executive at Hudgells, expressed frustration with the situation, stating,

"Many trips this year onboard Ventura have been ruined. I am now asking for an investigation into how they came to be ill."

She is also demanding full refunds and additional damages for the passengers.

Jatinder Paul, a partner at Irwin Mitchell, revealed that some passengers required hospitalization in Spain. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the illness and secure justice for the affected individuals.

A spokesperson for JPS Walker Solicitors expressed confidence in their clients' cases, stating,

"Most of the claimants we’re representing were vomiting, had diarrhoea and a cough. I would rate our chances [of winning] as high. The cruise line is bang to rights."

In response to the legal action, a P&O Cruises spokesperson reiterated the company's commitment to health and safety.

While declining to comment on specific cases, the spokesperson emphasized that the cruise line adheres to strict protocols to protect the well-being of its guests and crew.