Biggleswade couple seeks answers after Northern Lights cruise ruined by stomach flu outbreak

Christine Barnwell, 75, and her partner Peter Hayman, 78, were told to stay in their room for 48 hours after they developed a fever, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea halfway through their voyage on the Spirit of Discovery cruise ship.

The problems proved so severe that the pair had to cancel two excursions booked during the cruise and they are still suffering with the after-effects of the illness several weeks on.

Now, they have approached solicitors Irwin Mitchell to investigate what happened during the February break - booked through Saga Cruises - to see if their illnesses could have been prevented.

Jennifer Hodgson, representing the couple, said: “Christine and Peter are understandably frustrated and upset by the issues during their cruise and are keen to discover how the problems emerged.

“We have commenced our investigations into what they have faced and we are determined to help Christine and Peter get the answers they deserve regarding what happened on what was meant to be a special break to see the Northern Lights.

“As part of our investigations, we are keen to hear from anyone who may have information about the conditions aboard the Spirit of Discovery cruise ship.”

Christine and Peter, who are both retired after serving with the British Army, set off on the Spirit of Discovery on February 16.

As they boarded, they were informed that an outbreak during the ship’s previous voyage around Spain and Italy had affected numerous passengers.

Christine said: “While it was concerning to hear about the previous illness, we were under the impression that the ship had been subject to a deep clean and staff also told us not to worry.

"With that in mind, we did not think we were at risk of falling ill.”

However, Christine started to suffer with symptoms on February 22 and Peter developed the same problems around two days later. Both of them were advised to remain in their cabin for 48 hours to let the illness run its course.

Christine added: “The symptoms were absolutely awful and we were both in a really bad way.

"We had to miss two trips as a result of the problems and that was hugely disappointing. We were also aware of others being ill and even saw staff in the toilets seemingly checking that people were washing their hands.

“Even now I still suffer with lethargy which I believe is down to what we’ve been through. The whole experience has just been awful and I feel we deserve answers as to how everything could go so wrong.”

Saga Cruises have been contacted for comment.