THE GOAN | MELBOURNE
A Goan chef from Cuncolim is among the crew members assisting passengers aboard the ill-fated expedition cruise vessel ‘MV Hondius’, which continues to battle a major medical emergency in the Atlantic Ocean.
Khabir Moraes, an executive chef and popular YouTuber, is currently on board the Dutch-operated vessel as it sails towards Tenerife in the Canary Islands under strict medical monitoring.
Moraes wasn't available for comments as he was engaged with the company in offering rescue support.
According to highly placed maritime industry sources, Moraes and the rest of the crew have been working tirelessly to provide all possible support and assistance to passengers during the crisis.
The vessel has remained in the spotlight following a hantavirus outbreak on board that claimed the lives of three passengers, including a Dutch couple and a German national. Medical teams, under the guidance of the Dutch National Institute for Public Health (RIVM), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Dutch Government, continue to monitor the situation closely.
In its latest official update, Oceanwide Expeditions stated that no symptomatic individuals are currently present on board and confirmed that the vessel is proceeding towards the port of Granadilla in Tenerife, where it is expected to arrive in the early hours of Sunday, May 10.
The company also confirmed that 120 guests were on board the vessel during its recent voyage, which began in Ushuaia, Argentina, with additional passengers boarding at Tristan da Cunha. Authorities are continuing discussions regarding quarantine, screening procedures and evacuation arrangements upon arrival in the Canary Islands.
Amid the unfolding crisis, the presence of a Goan crew member actively involved in assisting stranded passengers has drawn attention within the Goan maritime community, known globally for its strong representation in the cruise and shipping industry.
