NASSAU, Bahamas, March 12, 2020 — The Cabinet of The Bahamas has denied entry to a cruise ship with five cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
“This decision is based on consideration for the protection of the health and safety of the Bahamian people and residents of The Bahamas,” a statement from the Cabinet Office read, according to the Nassau Guardian, one of The Bahamas’ leading daily newspapers.
The statement added: “The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) has been in constant communication with the owners of the Braemer, which is a Bahamas-flagged ship. The BMA has reaffirmed to the Braemar that should it arrive in Bahamian waters, The Bahamas will do all that it can to provide humanitarian assistance. This may include providing fuel, food, water and other supplies as needed by the vessel.”
The decision was handed down hours after Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, which confirmed in a statement that one guest and four crew members have tested positive for COVID-19, was headed towards The Bahamas, according to The Guardian.
The ship was expected to arrive in Barbados today. However, Fred Olsen said it had to change course “following a cautious response from the local authorities”.
The ship was said to be working with The Bahamas, the UK (United Kingdom) government, UK Chamber of Shipping and Public Health England “to ensure that all guests can return home as soon as possible.” See the report in the Nassau Guardian at https://thenassauguardian.com/2020/03/12/cabinet-cruise-will-not-be-allowed-to-dock/?fbclid=IwAR3btmvhBNIIJW5-xvlB6P8Q64FnDdy2FWioGG28RHuFnB932MNZayyk5kA#
