The regional government of Spain’s Canary Islands is opposed to allowing the Hondius to dock on the archipelago, its leader said on May 6, according to Reuters.

“This decision is not based on any technical criteria, nor is there sufficient information to reassure the public or guarantee their safety,” Fernando Clavijo told radio station COPE, Reuters reported.

He requested an urgent meeting with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez to discuss the issue.

Spanish state broadcaster TVE reported the cruise ship was set to dock at Tenerife, citing sources from the country’s health ministry, according to Reuters.

Clavijo said it makes no sense for passengers to sail to the Canaries, as reported by the BBC.

“If the passengers are safe and healthy, it does not make sense that they have to come to the Canary Islands to be repatriated, they could do that from the international airport of Cape Verde,” he said.

Clavijo said there is no protocol for dealing with disembarked passengers and that the situation is extremely extraordinary.

He also said that he has had no contact with the Spanish government and that the health minister has not called him.

Oceanwide Expeditions provided an update on the ongoing medical situation onboard the Hondius, which remains off the coast of Cape Verde, in a May 6 update.

The company said the planned transfer of three individuals from the vessel to specialized aircraft has not yet taken place and was scheduled to occur on May 6. Once aboard the aircraft, these individuals, two of whom present acute symptoms, will be transferred to medical and screening facilities. The third individual is closely associated with the guest who passed away onboard the ship on May 2.

Exact details will be shared when this planned transfer has taken place.

Following the advice of the RIVM (Dutch Institute for Public Health and Environment), two infectious disease physicians, currently en route from the Netherlands, will join the Hondius and remain with the vessel after its anticipated departure from Cape Verde, provided the three individuals are successfully transferred. An additional medical professional is already onboard.

“Oceanwide Expeditions remains in close and continual discussion with relevant authorities regarding our exact point of arrival, quarantine and screening procedures for all guests, and a precise timeline. We are unable to confirm the details of onward travel for guests at this stage. This is dependent on medical advice and the outcome of stringent screening procedures. Close cooperation continues with local and international authorities, including the WHO, the RIVM, relevant embassies, and the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” the company said.