The Canary Islands Minister for Territorial Policy, Ángel Víctor Torres, has described the handling of the cruise ship Hondius as a “success” after all passengers completed quarantine without any cases of hantavirus being detected in the Canary Islands.

The minister confirmed this yesterday, Sunday, following the conclusion of the 45-day quarantine period for passengers who disembarked in Tenerife after a suspected hantavirus incident onboard the expedition cruise vessel.

Writing on social media, Torres praised the response of both the Spanish Government and the Canary Islands authorities, arguing that the operation demonstrated the islands’ ability to respond effectively to international public health emergencies.

Torres said the outcome should prompt a broader reflection on the role of the Canary Islands as a strategic Atlantic hub for tourism, trade and humanitarian assistance.

He stressed that the archipelago’s geographical position means it must be prepared to respond when international organisations require support in exceptional circumstances.

The minister also criticised what he described as unfounded alarmism surrounding the arrival of the ship, arguing that some of the public debate created unnecessary concern.

Torres highlighted that no local infections were recorded during the operation and insisted that public health had been protected throughout the process.

He also thanked residents of Tenerife and particularly the municipality of Granadilla for their cooperation during the operation.

International Attention

The Hondius case attracted international attention after passengers were quarantined following concerns linked to possible hantavirus exposure. The operation involved strict health controls and monitoring procedures after the vessel was authorised to anchor and disembark passengers in Tenerife.

With all tests returning negative and no transmission detected among passengers or the local population, authorities have now formally closed the operation.

The outcome has been welcomed by health officials and government representatives, who say it demonstrates the effectiveness of the Canary Islands’ emergency response systems and its ability to manage complex public health situations while protecting residents and visitors alike.