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The Diamond Princess cruise ship was quarantined in Japan's Yokohama on February 4, after evidence of the novel coronavirus was found on the vessel. Recently, 44 more people contracted the virus, bringing the total number of cases to 219. This means it's the largest outbreak outside of mainland China. While those who've tested positive are allowed to leave the ship for treatment, everyone else has to remain there at least until February 19.

The passengers have been asked to stay in their rooms, wear masks, and walk on the deck for a couple of minutes each day, keeping at least six feet of distance from others. Their meals are delivered to their room, and they also have plenty of TV, movie, and newspaper options to pass the time.

One more thing they're doing to keep themselves busy is sharing their everyday lives on social media. Their posts provide interesting insights into what it's like to stay on a cruise to nowhere, facing an epidemic that has already claimed more than 1,350 people.

More info: princess.com

Bored Panda spoke to one of the passengers on the quarantined ship to get a better understanding of the situation. "We spend way too much time on social media these days," Aun Na Tan, a mom-of-three from Australia, said. "When we have steady internet, it's probably around 12 hours. We mainly chat with family and friends but also check the news and posts by other people."

Their day usually starts when room service wakes them up for breakfast. "We then all have breakfast and check our messages and e-mails. My hubby is working remotely so he logs on to work. We spend the next few hours reading or chatting online. Lunch arrives. We also watch the news and the “wake show” - a program hosted by the cruise director ... We might play a game when the Internet is down or hubby has a free moment from the teleconference. In the evenings, the kids and hubby take turns doing stretches and exercise before dinner arrives. We watch a movie or two before turning in for the night."

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    #2

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    varwenea
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Legit. Holland America did the same thing. I feel for the passengers and the cruise company too. The company didn't cause this, but it's a miserable experience and they are offering very reasonable compensation.

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    The quarantine of the Diamond Princess cruise ship is responsible for creating several online communities as well. Some of the passengers formed groups on WhatsApp and Facebook to fight the isolation and share information. They also focus on keeping each other's spirits up.

    "The mood of most passengers we are in contact with is positive," Tan said. "Most people are thankful for the support we are receiving, and we tend to gravitate to people with the same positive vibe as us. We are glad we are together, in comfort and safety."

    #3

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    varwenea
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    That is very sweet (and appropriate) of the passengers. Need to be kind and understanding to survive this nightmare together.

    "To add to the above, we want to express our gratitude and admiration to the captain, the entire crew, and Japanese officials and medical volunteers who have proved countless times that they are working hard to make sure we are staying safe, comfortable and our needs -- both physical and mental -- are met. Also, the multitude of heartwarming messages that we receive from family, friends, and even strangers reaching out to us helps make our day brighter. There are loads of trolls mixed in there but haters gonna hate, and as Taylor Swift says, 'gotta shake it off!' Thank you everyone."

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    Because of the extraordinary circumstances on board, Princess Cruises will refund the full cruise fare for all 2,666 guests including air travel, hotel, ground transportation, pre-paid shore excursions, gratuities and other items. In addition, guests will not be charged for any on board incidental charges during the additional time on the vessel.

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    varwenea
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Now that is looking for a silver lining even when there isn't one! Way to keep up the positive attitude.

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    #9

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    Kim Lee
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Haha, this is gold! Having this sense of humor while is such a situation is amazing.

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    Donna Leske
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Can't passengers phone crew or service to bring them coffee and etc.?

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    Gregg V
    Community Member
    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    When your cruise line only sends you the very best face mask so you don't die.

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    Spikey Bunny
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I can't imagine what it would be like to be a child stuck in there for all this time! So thankful someone is keeping them busy.

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    Francis
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    I would try to be as drunk as possible xD what else do you wanna do?

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    Gregg V
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Thank God for the internet! Sorry, Dad! Kids still happy, stay and sleep in bed, watch movies, play games, and chat with friends.

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    Gregg V
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    How about a bottle of wine instead? Or a bottle of rum like in 5 star Caribbean Hotels.

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    Anne
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Are you in third class? the food the other people posted looks so much better o_0

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    Gregg V
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    4 years ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

    Love the blue hair... you look like a merman! No wonder, Dad looks disappointed.

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