CDC 2024 Report Ranks Cruise Lines on Sanitation, Highlights Top Performers

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released its 2024 cruise ship sanitation findings, placing a spotlight on both exemplary standards and serious lapses across multiple operators. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) led the industry by earning perfect scores on seven vessels, including Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Bliss, underscoring a strong commitment to cleanliness. However, the luxury expedition ship Hanseatic Inspiration from Hapag-Lloyd Cruises prompted concern after an initial failing score, illustrating that even high-end lines are not immune to sanitation challenges.

CDC 2024 Vessel Sanitation Results: Key Takeaways

Inspections under the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program (VSP) revealed notable highs and lows across a range of cruise lines this year. In addition to NCL’s seven perfect 100 scores, Royal Caribbean International posted four ships with 100 points, Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises each achieved three, and Carnival Spirit, Celebrity Ascent, Disney Fantasy, plus Brilliance of the Seas all joined the perfect-score list. Several ships, such as the Caribbean Princess and Carnival Breeze, landed below the recommended threshold with scores of 86, showing that gaps remain despite industry-wide efforts to improve hygiene protocols.

Lowest-Scoring Ships: Hanseatic Inspiration in Focus

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ Hanseatic Inspiration initially received one of the lowest marks in recent memory, scoring 62, well below the CDC’s passing threshold of 85. Inspectors reportedly found a beer tap covered in grime, live and dead insects near the pool bar, improper food temperature controls, and a decaying bird near an outdoor grill. The line characterized the failing score as unprecedented, stating, “This was a first-time occurrence and we will use the findings to improve processes.” A follow-up inspection later produced a higher score of 89, indicating corrective progress.

Top Performers: Norwegian Cruise Line Leads the Way

NCL emerged as the standout leader in 2024, with seven ships, such as Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Bliss, each earning perfect 100 ratings. These unannounced exams examine over 40 areas, including food handling and water safety, and a consistent record of excellence across multiple vessels underscores NCL’s strong day-to-day adherence to sanitation standards.

Other lines also posted high marks: Royal Caribbean International recorded four perfect scores, while Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises each saw three. Additional ships that achieved 100 included Carnival Spirit, Celebrity Ascent, Disney Fantasy, and Brilliance of the Seas. These accolades signal that many operators are continually refining safety and cleanliness protocols to prevent gastrointestinal outbreaks and satisfy traveler expectations.

Ships Flagged for Lower Scores

Despite a general upward trend, the CDC singled out ten cruise ships for sub-89 scores, including Caribbean Princess and Carnival Breeze. While not outright failures, these mid-80s results mean operators must address specific deficiencies. A score below 85 constitutes a failing grade and leads to required corrective actions plus reinspection. The scrutiny underscores how quickly lapses in cleanliness can pose health risks in a confined onboard environment.

How CDC Cruise Ship Inspections Work

The Vessel Sanitation Program conducts unannounced evaluations at U.S. ports to minimize gastrointestinal illness onboard. Inspectors check more than 40 elements, ranging from galleys and potable water systems to recreational pools and outbreak response plans. Passing is set at 85, with final reports posted publicly on the CDC’s website. When ships do not meet the standard, the CDC typically requires a corrective action plan and a later reinspection to verify measurable improvements.

Importance of Checking Inspection Scores

Before booking a cruise, travelers can review these inspection scores to gauge a ship’s sanitation track record. Examining both initial and follow-up ratings reveals how effectively an operator handles identified problems. Lines with consistently high or perfect marks often demonstrate robust procedures and fleet-wide vigilance. Personal hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, further reduce a traveler’s risk, but transparent CDC reporting remained a key resource for selecting a safe and sanitary voyage in 2024 and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Hanseatic Inspiration receive such a low initial score?

CDC inspectors documented significant lapses, including filthy bar equipment, insect activity, and improper food storage temperatures. These issues contributed to a failing score of 62, below the CDC’s passing threshold of 85.

Did Hapag-Lloyd Cruises respond to the inspection findings?

Yes. The company characterized the low result as unprecedented and pledged to improve processes. A subsequent reinspection scored Hanseatic Inspiration at 89, reflecting corrective measures taken.

Which cruise line scored the highest in 2024 inspections?

Norwegian Cruise Line earned top distinction, with seven ships receiving perfect 100 scores. These included Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Jewel, and Norwegian Bliss among others.

What is the CDC’s passing score for cruise sanitation inspections?

The passing score set by the CDC’s Vessel Sanitation Program is 85. Any ship falling short of that mark undergoes additional inspection and targeted corrective measures.

Do low or failing scores mean a ship is unsafe to sail?

A failing or low mark indicates deficiencies that the CDC requires cruise lines to address promptly. Passengers researching follow-up or reinspection results, such as Hanseatic Inspiration’s improved outcome, can see how effectively an operator corrects these issues before deciding to book.

The 2024 findings reveal a spectrum of performance across the industry, with standout ships demonstrating rigorous daily cleaning practices, while lower-scoring operators face heightened oversight. As lines strive to maintain passenger confidence, the CDC’s transparent inspection program remains central to guiding consumer choices and encouraging continuous sanitation improvements at sea.