The final six passengers—comprising four Australians, one Briton, and one New Zealander—disembarked the MV Hondius on Monday, joining several crew members who had already left the vessel.
Mass Repatriation of Passengers and Crew
In recent days, governments have arranged chartered flights to repatriate 122 passengers and crew members from the MV Hondius to the Netherlands and their respective home countries. This marked a significant step in managing the situation aboard the ship.
Remaining Individuals on Board
As of Monday evening, Oceanwide Expeditions confirmed that 27 individuals remained on the vessel, including 25 crew members and two medical personnel. Nationalities among those staying on board included 17 Filipinos, four Dutch nationals—including the two medical staff—four Ukrainians, one Russian, and one Pole.
Ukrainian Crew to Assist in Ship Transfer
Ukraine’s foreign ministry announced that the Ukrainian crew members would assist in the ship’s transfer back to the Netherlands and undergo quarantine at a designated medical facility upon arrival. Notably, none of the Ukrainians have exhibited symptoms of illness.
Filipino Crew Arrive Safely
On Tuesday morning, seventeen Filipino crew members safely arrived in the Netherlands, the Philippine Embassy reported, highlighting the coordinated international response to the unfolding health situation.
First Confirmed Fatality on Board
A 70-year-old Dutch passenger became the first recorded death linked to the outbreak aboard the MV Hondius on April 11. He had exhibited symptoms early in the incident and is believed to be the initial case in the viral cluster, although he passed away before diagnostic testing could confirm infection.
