Spanish Government Hails Successful Evacuation of 'MV Hondius' in Granadilla

The disembarkation operation for passengers of the hantavirus-affected cruise ship concluded without incidents, highlighting Canarian solidarity.

Image of a cruise ship docked at the port of Granadilla, Tenerife.
IA

Image of a cruise ship docked at the port of Granadilla, Tenerife.

The Spanish Government has declared the evacuation operation of passengers from the cruise ship 'MV Hondius' in Granadilla, Tenerife, a “success” following a hantavirus outbreak, emphasizing the absence of incidents and the solidarity of the Canarian people.

The disembarkation of those aboard the vessel, which was affected by a hantavirus outbreak, proceeded smoothly, as reported by a government spokesperson. Gratitude was extended to the “solidarity” of the Canarian community for their reception of the ship during a critical time.

"Zero incidents."

a government spokesperson
The decision to allow the cruise ship to dock in Spanish waters was defended as a “legal responsibility” following a distress call from the World Health Organization (WHO). It was also considered a “moral obligation” to the approximately 150 families of tourists and crew members on board, who were experiencing “the worst moment of their lives.”
Through this action, Spain has demonstrated its commitment to global health and international law, positioning itself as a country that provides assistance when needed. Disinfection efforts at the port of Granadilla concluded yesterday, allowing port activities to resume today, as confirmed by the president of the Port Authority of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Pedro Suárez.
The disinfection covered both the port infrastructure and the vessels that interacted with the 'MV Hondius', finishing two hours after the last passenger was evacuated. Waste containing protective equipment used by personnel who attended to the cruise passengers was also removed.