Norwegian Cruise Line has released its updated schedule for Pride of America cruises in Hawaii. Yesterday, the cruise line had reported that it would be suspending calls to Kona and Hilo on the Big Island “until further notice” due to the ongoing volcanic activity at the Kilauea volcano.
According to a spokesperson for the cruise line, due to uncertain conditions resulting from the volcanic activity, Norwegian has modified the Pride of America’s itinerary as follows:
- Saturday (Arrive 7:00) – Sunday (Depart 17:00): Honolulu, Oahu
- Monday (Arrive 8:00) – Tuesday (Depart 18:00): Kahului, Maui
- Wednesday (Arrive 8:00, Depart 18:00): Lahaina, Maui
- Thursday (Arrive 8:00) – Friday (Depart 14:00): Nawiliwili, Kauai
- Saturday (Arrive 7:00): Honolulu, Oahu
“Hawaii is an incredible destination and we are proud to have faithfully visited its ports for the last 14 years,” Norwegian said. “We will continue to monitor the situation and hope to return to Hilo and Kona again as soon as possible.”
The move comes as the volcanic activity, which has been ongoing since May 3, has prompted Hawaii tourism officials to continue addressing concerns about air quality. In his most recent statement Hawaii Governor David Ige has reassured travelers that the air quality in the Hawaiian Islands is safe for residents and visitors, except in affected areas.
"The bottom line is that there is no reason for travelers to avoid making their vacation plans in the Hawaiian Islands due to safety concerns because of Kilauea volcano,” said Ige.
The volcanic activity has also prompted several airlines to issue flight waivers.
Customers set to fly through Hilo or Kona through June 10 on Hawaiian Airlines can make a one-time reservation change without fee, for new flights through June 17. For changes made to new flights on or before June 17, the airline will also waive any fare differences so long as travel is in the same compartment and there is no change in origin or destination. For changes made to new flights after June 17, the change fee will be waived but the applicable difference in fare will be collected.
Delta is allowing customers set to fly through Kona through June 10 to rebook through June 17, with the new ticket to be reissued on or before that date.
Finally, American Airlines is allowing customers scheduled to fly through Hilo and Kona through June 10 to rebook through June 17 between the same city pair in the same cabin (or pay the difference).
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