Passengers Notified After Legionnaires' Disease Investigation on Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Cruise Line has alerted guests who recently sailed on, or are currently aboard, the Norwegian Encore after two passengers from a December 2025 sailing were later diagnosed with Legionnaires' disease. The line says it's working with federal health officials and conducting on-board testing as a precaution.
What prompted the passenger notification
The company contacted guests after two people who were aboard the ship in December 2025 received diagnoses for Legionnaires' disease after disembarking. The investigation aims to determine whether exposure occurred on the ship or from another source. Both cases triggered routine public health procedures intended to protect passengers and crew.
On-board testing and initial results
Shipboard teams have begun Legionella testing across multiple water sources. Samples are being taken from hot tubs, showers, faucets and other potential stagnation points where the bacteria can thrive. To date, all test results returned have been negative for Legionella, but testing remains ongoing and continues under federal monitoring.
Health risks, symptoms and who is most vulnerable
Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia. Symptoms commonly include coughing, fever, headache and muscle aches. People who are older, have chronic lung conditions or weakened immune systems face increased risk of serious illness. The incubation period is typically two to 14 days but can be longer, meaning exposure could have occurred before, during or after the relevant sailing.
Advice for recent and current passengers
Guests who sailed on the Norwegian Encore in recent weeks or who are currently aboard are being urged to monitor their health closely. Anyone who develops respiratory symptoms should seek medical attention promptly and request testing for Legionella when appropriate. The cruise line has advised particularly vulnerable travelers to consider postponing future bookings if they have concerns.
Ship operations and passenger impact
The Norwegian Encore has continued its schedule without itinerary changes, delays or diversions while testing is underway. The Breakaway Plus–class ship is homeported in Miami and operates seven-night Caribbean sailings that depart on Saturdays. The vessel's capacity is listed at nearly 4, 000 guests at double occupancy, with about 2, 100 crew members on board.
Why cruise lines notify passengers
Notifying recent guests is standard practice when possible exposure to Legionnaires' disease is identified. Public health investigations often require reaching out so potentially exposed individuals can receive timely medical evaluation and testing. The disease is not spread from person to person in the way gastrointestinal viruses can be; transmission typically occurs through inhalation of contaminated water droplets.
Authorities and the cruise operator emphasize that the testing effort is precautionary and intended to rule out any shipboard contamination. Guests with health concerns are advised to contact their healthcare provider for guidance and testing.
