In light of the coronavirus outbreak situation, the Japanese Ministry of Defense recently informed that has prepared a 17.000 GT ferry vessel, in order to provide temporary accommodation for Japanese nationals who return from China.
In fact, the chartered ferry named as “Hakuou”, has berthed at Yokosuka Naval Base in Kanagawa Prefecture, following Ministry’s request.
For the records, the 17.000-ton ferry is generally used to transport Japan Self-Defense Forces units.
Although, Hakuou has been sent to Yokosuka base near Tokyo, to be used as a quarantine vessel, offering accommodation to people returning from Wuhan on government-chartered aircraft.
Namely, the ferry has 94 guest rooms, from which 24 are equipped with a shower and toilet.
Additionally, this action was taken by the Japanese Ministry of Defense, which decided to prepare the ferry in advance, due to the urgency of the coronavirus crisis.
Overall, recently Princess cruises company confirmed that ten passengers onboard the Diamond Princess cruise ship have been tested positive for coronavirus, which led to company cancelling the vessel’s next voyage as they though it was important to thoroughly review the health status of guests.
