Seven COVID cases on SeaDream I, others test negative and may be heading home

This is according to Gene Sloan of The Points Guy, who is aboard. In an update Friday, he reported the initial five positives are members of a family while the other two are a married couple. 

Sloan said one person was taken to a shoreside medical facility for 'observation'; the others are showing only 'light symptoms.' 

Those testing negative may be able to travel home

Citing an announcement by Capt. Torbjørn Lund on Friday, Sloan said Barbados authorities cleared passengers who have repeatedly tested negative to return home and some may be flying out Saturday.

Cruise cut short 

SeaDream I had cut short its cruise and returned to Bridgetown late Wednesday after the first person tested positive.

There everyone was tested both by the ship's doctor and by Barbados authorities. The shipboard test is an Abbott ID Now rapid test while the Barbados authorities used a test sent to a shoreside laboratory.

There were 53 passengers and 66 crew on the cruise that began Nov. 7. Everyone has been isolated in their cabins.

Nov. 14 sailing canceled

SeaDream I's Nov. 14 cruise has been canceled, according to Cruise Week, citing a note from SeaDream VP Sales Kris Endreson sent to travel advisors. 

SeaDream Yacht Club has not responded to questions.