Braemar's 'Western Caribbean & Central America' fly-cruise update - 10/03/2020

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines can confirm that Braemar has arrived in Willemstad, Curaçao, to allow for the testing of a small number of influenza-like cases on board.

There are six people who are currently isolated. As a precaution, we are making arrangements to have these individuals tested for COVID-19 coronavirus in Willemstad, Curaçao.

Braemar has not received the necessary clearances to allow guests to go ashore while the ship is docked in Willemstad while we await the results of these tests. All guests who had shore excursions booked will have these automatically refunded.

These precautionary tests are being conducted after two guests who recently sailed aboard Braemar were diagnosed with COVID-19 coronavirus after returning home.

Both guests were aboard Braemar as part of the ‘Eastern Caribbean’ fly-cruise, and left the ship last week.

Neither guest presented with any symptoms prior to their travel or whilst they were on board, and did not visit the Medical Centre.

The Captain is keeping guests and crew currently on board fully informed of all developments, and the ship is operating under its highest level of sanitisation, which includes the suspension of self-service buffets and increased cleaning around the ship.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has also written to all guests who were aboard the former M2004 ‘Eastern Caribbean’ itinerary, to make them aware of the situation and advising them to follow the latest NHS guidelines should anyone begin to feel unwell following their return home.

The safety and well-being of all our guests and crew is our number one priority and we are taking the latest advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and World Health Organisation, as well as Public Health England and CLIA.

We are in contact with UK public health authorities on any required actions and will keep those on board updated with further information as we receive it.