However, in May, P&O Cruises said that only 0.64 per cent of passengers were symptomatic on Wednesday 22 May, but failed to confirm how many suffered at the virus’ peak.

P&O Cruises said that medication is "readily available through our onboard medical centre" and an emergency support number is “available 24 hours a day”.

P&O Cruises has apologised to almost 1,900 passengers for cancelling one of its cruises because a ship's refit was not complete. Aurora was due to depart Southampton on Monday afternoon on a three ...