The ship departed from Ushuaia, southern Argentina, in March with approximately 150 passengers. The expedition, operated by Oceanwide Expeditions, was marketed as a high-end journey through the Antarctic region and other remote southern Atlantic locations, with ticket prices reportedly ranging between €14,000 and €22,000.

The planned route included passages through Antarctica, the Falkland Islands, and isolated islands such as Nightingale Island and Tristan da Cunha. However, the journey changed course after passengers began falling ill mid-voyage.

The first confirmed death occurred on April 11, when a Dutch passenger died en route to Tristan da Cunha. His body remained on board until April 24, when the vessel reached Saint Helena Island. His wife, who had accompanied him, later fell ill and died three days after disembarking.

Health authorities in the Netherlands later confirmed she had been infected with hantavirus, a disease typically associated with rodents. In following days, further cases were reported. On May 2, a German passenger also died aboard the vessel. Meanwhile, a British passenger fell critically ill and was evacuated to South Africa, where tests confirmed a hantavirus infection.

The World Health Organization (WHO), along with other health agencies, are monitoring the situation closely. At least seven suspected or confirmed cases have been identified among those on board.

Hantavirus is primarily transmitted to humans through contact with infected rodents, such as mice and rats. Human-to-human transmission is considered rare, making this cluster of cases in a confined environment like a ship unusual and the subject of ongoing investigation.

Currently, the M/V Hondius remains stranded in waters near the Cape Verde Islands. Passengers remain on board while discussions continue between the ship's operators and local authorities regarding possible evacuation and medical screening.

Cape Verde health officials have not yet authorized disembarkation, citing concerns about potential spread to the mainland population. Authorities state that keeping the vessel offshore reduces public health risks.

Passengers describe conditions on board as increasingly difficult, with reports of growing anxiety and uncertainty as medical and logistical decisions remain unresolved. Some passengers have shared footage expressing concern over the situation.

In response, Oceanwide Expeditions is reportedly considering altering the ship's course toward Las Palmas or Tenerife, where passengers could receive medical attention.

The WHO continues to investigate the origin of the outbreak and how the virus may have entered the vessel. Efforts are ongoing to coordinate a safe solution for affected passengers, health agencies, and regional authorities.