They are isolating at Arrowe Park Hospital in Merseyside, after their chartered flight from Tenerife landed at Manchester Airport on Sunday (10 May).

The group will stay at the hospital for 72 hours before being asked to self-isolate for a further 42 days at home.

Twenty-two British nationals were still aboard the ship when it docked in the Canary Islands on Sunday. Two are dual nationals – one is travelling to the US and one is flying onto Australia.

Three people have died following the outbreak on the MV Hondius, including two which had hantavirus, according to World Health Organization (WHO).

"The UK Government has worked with international partners to ensure the safe return of all remaining British nationals on board the MV Hondius, with passengers now safely transferred to Arrowe Park Hospital," the UK Health Security Agency said in a statement.

It comes after Expedition Cruise Network chief executive Akvile Marozaite strongly defended Oceanwide Expeditions, which has been at the centre of the media coverage; and the rest of the sector last week.

"What has stood out most to me throughout this week is Oceanwide’s response," she said. "In a moment when many companies would retreat behind legal statements and silence, they have remained visible, responsive and transparent.

"Crisis communication is never easy when emotions are high and facts are still emerging, but Oceanwide has shown calm leadership and genuine care for its passengers, partners and wider community. Will this affect expedition cruising long term? I don't believe so."