What began as a routine cruise off the California coast took an unexpected turn after more than 120 passengers reported gastrointestinal symptoms during the voyage. As the number of illnesses grew, the ship introduced enhanced health and sanitation measures while officials worked to determine what caused the outbreak.

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A cruise ship is on lockdown in San Francisco after an outbreak of norovirus affecting more than 100 passengers and 20 crew.

The Ruby Princess, operated by Princess Cruises, was on a 20-day round-trip Alaskan voyage when the horrific bug struck 125 people on board. The trip also included a stop in British Columbia, Canada.

The CDC said 3.4% of the passengers and 2% of the ship’s crew reported being ill during the June 12 to July 2 trip. Most symptoms included diarrhea and vomiting.

A small fishing boat with two people on board passes by the Ruby Princess cruise ship in Manila Bay.
A cruise ship is on lockdown in San Francisco after an outbreak of norovirus affecting more than 100 passengers and 20 crew.Getty Images
Two people wave goodbye to the Ruby Princess cruise ship as it departs from Port Kembla.
The company says the vessel implemented enhanced sanitation protocols and that cases have decreased since then.Getty Images

The company says the vessel implemented enhanced sanitation protocols and that cases have decreased since then.