Confirmed: Man in Royal Caribbean Cruise Ship Doesn’t Have COVID-19; Lab to Review Its Testing Process

If you’re one of the passengers in Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas who’s gone through an emotional rollercoaster in the last 24 hours, here’s one more news that’ll make you feel relief or angry: it’s now been confirmed that the 83-year-old man, who was tested positive for COVID-19 in the Royal Caribbean cruise ship, doesn’t have any COVID-19 infection.

It’s still unknown how he turned out to be positive in the ship, and MOH will support the laboratory on board the Quantum of the Seas in its review of its testing processes.

3 Tests to Confirm the Negative Status

In order to confirm that he’s negative, the National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL) tested the original sample that was used in the ship, and it turned out negative instead.

To confirm again, they took a new sample from the man, and it turned out negative as well.

Today (10 December 2020), they did one more test, calling it the final confirmatory test, and it was negative, too.

Unless the man’s cells have some special powers to remove every trace of the virus within hours, it could’ve been a false-positive result in the ship.

MOH has since rescinded the Quarantine Orders of his close contacts, who had earlier been placed on quarantine as a precautionary measure while investigations were ongoing.

This incident didn’t just affect passengers who were in the cruise ship; it affected passengers who were supposed to have a good time today, too.

Royal Caribbean Cancels 10 Dec Cruise & Will Only Resume Sailing From 14 Dec

On 9 Dec 2020, Royal Caribbean announced that they’re going to cancel the cruise on 10 Dec 2020.

Just a day before the cancellation, Royal Caribbean had initially said that the cruise on 10 Dec 2020 will go on as usual.

The reason cited for the sudden change of decision is due to “an overabundance of caution”, the cruise operator revealed.

“At Royal Caribbean International, the safety and well-being of our guests and crew are our top priorities.

“In an overabundance of caution, we’ve decided to cancel our upcoming December 10th, 2020 sailing.

“We know how much time and effort go into planning your holiday and we’re terribly sorry for the disappointment and inconvenience.” – Royal Caribbean Emailed Statement Via Todayonline

Refunds + Future Credits

While nothing can be done for those who’ve already taken leave to go for the cruise, they can, at least, be happy with a full refund on the cruise trip, as well as an additional 25% of cruise credit for future trips.

The full refund also consists of money paid for pre-purchased add-ons such as the internet, F&B or upgrades.

The 25% is based on the total fare paid for the cancelled trip and is valid for 1 year after issue.

They will be sent to customers via email by 22 Jan 2021.

In addition, Royal Caribbean says they’re going to start processing the refunds immediately and that it usually takes 45 days.

For customers with enquiries, you can reach them via your travel advisor or call in to 6675 0419.

Featured Image: Igor Grochev / Shutterstock.com