The popular Jimmy Buffett-themed cruise ship, Margaritaville at Sea Paradise, has recently received a failing grade from health officials during an unexpected inspection conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on May 1st. The report, which was made publicly available on the CDC’s website, revealed that the ship was given a score of 83, falling short of the passing grade of 86.
One of the main complaints listed in the report was regarding the ship’s whirlpools, which are designed to hold a maximum of four people but were found to have six bathers at a time. This raised concerns about the safety and sanitation of the facilities. The report also highlighted sanitation issues related to food and drink on the ship.
One particular incident raised concerns about a crew member’s possible lack of hygiene while handling food. The investigator noted that the gloves worn by the crew member were stored with tools and it was unclear if the crew member had washed his hands before putting them on. There were also concerns about the lack of proper handwashing procedures and the storage of water bottles on soiled pallets.
Furthermore, the report indicated that the food preparation areas were found to be soiled and poorly lit. Another concerning finding was the crew member’s inability to demonstrate competency in handling chemicals used to clean lettuce. This puts into question the crew’s knowledge and training on food safety measures. The investigation also revealed several malfunctioning equipment such as freezers, refrigerators, and deep fryers.
When reached for comment, a spokesperson representing Margaritaville at Sea stated that immediate corrective actions were taken following the inspection. They also mentioned that many of the issues identified have already been resolved, and they are working towards meeting the USPH standards for a re-inspection. They are confident that the re-inspection will show significant improvements in the ship’s sanitation and safety measures.
The failing grade of Margaritaville at Sea has raised concerns among passengers who have taken or plan to take the cruise. Many have expressed disappointment and concern over the ship’s hygiene and safety standards. The news has also sparked conversations about the importance of proper sanitation and food handling practices in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Some pointed out that this incident could potentially affect the reputation of not just Margaritaville at Sea but also the entire cruise industry. Cruise companies have faced scrutiny in the past for outbreaks of illnesses such as norovirus. This latest incident only adds to the concerns and highlights the need for stringent health inspections and protocols.
On the other hand, some people have come to the defense of Margaritaville at Sea, stating that it is unfair to judge the entire cruise experience based on one unsatisfactory inspection. They also mentioned that it is the responsibility of the crew and the company to maintain high standards of hygiene, but it is also the duty of the passengers to follow proper handwashing and hygiene practices to prevent the spread of illnesses on the ship.
In light of this incident, it is expected that Margaritaville at Sea and other cruise companies will be taking additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of their passengers and crew. This may include heightened hygiene and sanitation protocols, as well as compulsory training for crew members on proper food handling and hygiene practices.
The CDC’s inspection report of Margaritaville at Sea serves as a reminder to the hospitality industry of the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety. It also highlights the need for regular inspections and strict adherence to health protocols to prevent the spread of illnesses on board cruise ships. As the industry works towards recovering from the impact of the pandemic, it is crucial for cruise companies to prioritize the health and safety of their customers and employees to regain the trust and confidence of the public.
