The Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK Cruises) announced today that three upcoming voyages on the cruise ship Asuka II are suspended after one crew member tested positive for Covid-19. According to the company statement, the crew member underwent three polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for coronavirus before boarding, and all results were negative. The crew member is undergoing medical treatment at an onshore hospital and doesn’t have serious symptoms or fever. Asuka II was scheduled to depart on a 2-night cruise from Osanbashi International Cruise Terminal in Yokohama on March 19, for the first time since January 4.

NYK Cruises released the following statement:

“On March 16, a foreign crew member of the passenger ship "Asuka II" anchored at Yokohama Port was confirmed to be positive for Covid-19. This crew member was confirmed to be negative by three PCR tests, before leaving the country of residence (March 1st), when entering Japan, and when boarding the ship (March 3rd). After confirming the positive person, we promptly reported to the public health center for instructions. In addition, we tested all crew members who had direct contact with the crew member during work and confirmed that they are all negative. We have already completed disinfection of the entire vessel.”

The following cruises on Asuka II are canceled:

• ・ March 19 Spring Hinata Weekend Cruise
• ・ March 21 Cruise from Kobe Spring Urara Kobe
• ・ March 23 Yokohama Cruise