Where Is the Zaandam Cruise Ship Now?

By Robert Palmer

Where Is the Zaandam Cruise Ship Now?

The Zaandam cruise ship is currently in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, after being denied by multiple countries in its attempt to find a port of refuge. The ship had been sailing off the coast of South America since March 14th with 4,000 passengers on board.

The Zaandam originally left Buenos Aires, Argentina on March 7th and was scheduled to return to the same port on March 21st. However, due to the coronavirus pandemic and every country in South America closing their borders, the Zaandam was forced to change its course and seek refuge in another country.

The ship first requested access to Ecuador but was denied due to the government’s fear of an outbreak amongst its citizens. The Zaandam then asked for permission from Peru and Chile but both countries declined as well. Costa Rica allowed the ship access to their waters with certain restrictions but it was ultimately denied entry because it did not have enough crew members fit for duty.

The Zaandam continued its journey northward until it reached Panama where it was allowed entry into their waters. Unfortunately, Panama also refused the ship access into any of their ports due to fears that some passengers may have been infected with Covid-19 or other illnesses.

The cruise line then contacted U.S authorities hoping they would allow access into one of their ports and after much deliberation, they were granted clearance into Fort Lauderdale on April 2nd after the U.S Coast Guard inspected the vessel and determined that there were no health risks aboard the vessel.

Since arriving at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, passengers have been disembarking and receiving medical attention if needed before being taken home by family members or charter flights organized by Holland America Line (the parent company of Zaandam).

As of April 10th, all passengers who wished to disembark had done so while those who chose to remain are now able to enjoy fresh air on deck while they wait for further instructions from Holland America Line regarding what will happen next.

Conclusion: After being denied entry by multiple countries off of South America’s coastline due to fears about Covid-19 infections aboard its vessel, the Zaandam cruise ship is now docked at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida where all passengers have been allowed disembark and receive medical attention if needed before being taken home by family members or charter flights organized by Holland America Line (the parent company of Zaandam).