HTA Welcomes The Responsible Return Of NCL To Maui
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced its return to Kahului, Maui, with the guidance and encouragement of the Maui community, Hawai‘i State Governor Josh Green and the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority.
NCL’s Pride of America, which has an 18-year history of cruising the Hawaiian Islands year-round, will recommence its weekly overnight calls to Kahului beginning Sept. 3, 2023.
Earlier this month, the cruise line paused its calls to Maui, to avoid stressing local resources due to the devastating wildfires in Lahaina on the island’s west side.
David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, said: “We have a strong connection with the people and islands of Hawai‘i and long history of bringing guests from all over the world year-round to this paradise in the Pacific.’
Herrera continued: “When we heard of the tragic wildfires, we were quick to mobilize our network to support local recovery efforts in Maui. We temporarily adjusted our itineraries to avoid stressing the destination further, we donated $50,000 to Maui United Way, and together alongside our partners have collected and will be donating over $150,000 in supplies such as food, clothing and mattresses.”
And NCL’s president concluded: “We look forward to returning to this incredibly special destination soon with the guidance and support of the local community, Hawai‘i Tourism Authority and encouragement Governor Green.”
Hawai‘i State Governor Josh Green, M.D. observed: “We appreciate the continued partnership with Norwegian Cruise Line, and the support it has recently provided to aid the recovery of the residents of Lahaina.”
Governor Green continued: “While travel to West Maui is restricted to returning residents and emergency responders, we are working with our tourism partners, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, and encouraging them to make a steady return to other areas of the island and throughout the rest of the state.”
Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, chief brand officer of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. “The damaging effects of the recent wildfires to the Lahaina community has been heartbreaking. As recovery efforts are underway, the island of Maui is dependent now more than ever on the return of mindful, respectful visitation which keeps our residents employed and businesses open.”
Ka‘anā‘anā added: “We are encouraging travellers and visitor industry companies, such as Norwegian Cruise Line, to make a responsible return to the island, visiting the many areas that were not impacted by the fires and are welcoming travellers back.”
To learn about the latest Maui emergency management and recovery information, and to kōkua (help) the people of Maui, please visit www.mauistrong.hawaii.gov and Maui United Way.
For information about the areas of Maui that remain open and are welcoming visitors, visit www.gohawaii.com/maui.
