Oceanwide Expeditions CEO Remi Bouysset described the past few weeks as among the most difficult in the company's history as hantavirus spread on the Hondius expedition ship. But, he said, the expedition cruise line is resilient.
In a statement, Bouysset called the situation a "human tragedy" -- three passengers died and some are still hospitalized in critical condition -- but one in which many across the company were caring, professional and resilient.
He thanked guests for their patience and noted that many are still under quarantine.
While investigations are ongoing, he said he believes medical information indicating that the virus did not originate onboard but was contracted by someone before embarkation.
"At this stage, there is no indication that the source of infection was linked to the vessel's condition or to Oceanwide Expeditions' onboard operations," he said. "We maintain strict pest-control and biosecurity procedures onboard our vessels, including regular inspections and monitoring."
The Dutch cruise line plans to restart passenger sailings on the Hondius on June 13 after a ship sanitization. Oceanwide, founded in 1993, is still "financially solid," Bouysset said.
The cruise line will continue reviewing what occurred with experts and authorities and "take the lessons from it seriously," Bouysset said.
"Our focus now is on supporting those affected, allowing teams to recover, completing the remaining procedures responsibly, and preparing for the next phase," he said. "I have always believed in one simple principle: Do the right thing and do things right."