Passengers on the “Yury Andropov” cruise ship experienced discomfort and required activated charcoal during a recent trip from St. Petersburg to Valaam and back. The incident occurred on a cruise that began on June 9, with 269 tourists returning to St. Petersburg on June 11.

Following reports of passenger discomfort, authorities have launched investigations into the matter. The Western Interregional Investigation Department for Transport of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation and the North-Western Transport Prosecutor’s Office are both conducting checks.

Passengers attributed their symptoms to dinner served on the ship, with some seeking refunds due to missed meals and excursions as a result of feeling unwell.

The tour operator, Vodokhod, maintains that the ship adheres to all sanitary and epidemiological standards. An internal audit allegedly confirmed compliance with regulations, including health certifications for crew, proper cleaning schedules, and adequate supplies of detergents and disinfectants.

Vodokhod also stated that the ship’s catering facilities are equipped to meet safety requirements, with measures such as bactericidal lamps and sufficient cutting equipment in place. The company emphasized the use of technological documentation for food preparation and the maintenance of rejection, temperature, and humidity control logs.

According to the tour operator, regular water samples, swabs, and food samples are taken for testing. The microclimate is measured annually, and physical factors are assessed every five years. Disinfection procedures are also reportedly in place for the infirmary, isolation ward, and disposable instruments.