Hawaii Travel Update: Norwegian Cruise Line to Return to the Big Island

Norwegian Cruise Line will once again feature Big Island calls on its Pride of America itineraries, despite ongoing volcanic activity from the Kilauea volcano.

In a statement to USA Today, Norwegian said it had consulted with authorities on the island and had determined that it was time to return to Kona and Hilo. It also said that it is still monitoring and evaluating the situation.

Norwegian had been sailing an altered itinerary on Pride of America, the only U.S.-registered ship sailing Hawaii from Honolulu, since Kilauea initially erupted last month. The ship had been spending more time at Oahu and Maui instead of scheduled calls at Kona and Hilo, something it said would continue indefinitely.

Now, the ship will be able to return to its regular schedule that includes a stop in both Kona and Hilo along with calls at Maui and Kauai.

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Hawaii’s Kilauea Volcano Eruption Isn’t a Covered Event for Typical Travel Insurance

According to the Hawaii County Authority, Kilauea is still experiencing ongoing eruptions in its East Riff Eruption zone, but there should be no concerns from people not in the direct area.

“Hawai‘i’s air quality is being closely monitored on a continuing basis by scientists, meteorologists and the Hawai‘i State Department of Health. This team of experts says the air quality in the Hawaiian Islands is safe for residents and visitors, except in the affected areas,” Governor Ige said in a statement.

All airports and flights are operational and most local business and tour companies outside of the active areas are still open.

Two-thirds of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is closed because of the eruptions, but the Kahuku Unit is still open and park rangers are available at the Mokupapapa Discovery Center in Downtown Hilo.