Virus-hit cruise ship nears US port, awaits final approval

A virus-hit cruise ship with dozens of ill passengers and crew neared Florida on Thursday, awaiting final clearance to dock after being barred from several South American countries.

The Zaandam, operated by Holland America Line, and its sister ship the Rotterdam are expected to dock in Fort Lauderdale, after days of protracted negotiations over their fate.

A commissioner of Broward County, which includes Fort Lauderdale, said on Twitter that the ships had received "conditional approval" from local authorities, the Coast Guard and health officials to come into port.

"Look forward to seeing a SAFE plan for all to resolve," said the commissioner, Michael Udine.

Holland America, which is owned by Carnival, said the ships would "remain outside US waters while awaiting clearance to enter."
President Donald Trump also said the ships needed to be evacuated, saying: "We have to help the people. They're in big trouble."