Norwegian Cruise Line Announces September Return to Maui

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced its return to Kahului, Maui starting in September. This update was made with the guidance and encouragement from the Maui community, Hawaii State Governor Josh Green, and the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

Earlier this August, the cruise line paused all calls to Maui, in an effort to avoid stressing local resources following the wildfires in Lahaina on the island’s west side. 

Starting this Sunday, September 3, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America will recommence its weekly overnight calls to Kahului. 

“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,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “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.  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 Governor Green.”

Hawaii officials shared the following statements:

"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.  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.” - Hawai‘i State Governor Josh Green, M.D. 

“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.  We are encouraging travelers 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 travelers back.” - Kalani Ka‘anā‘anā, Chief Brand Officer of the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority 

NCL's Pride of America has an 18-year history of cruising the Hawaiian Islands year-round. The ship sails roundtrip from Honolulu, offering 7-day cruises visiting Hilo, Kailua-Kona, Nawiliwili (Kauai), and once again Kahului, Maui.

Per an announcement issued by Hawai‘i Tourism Authority as well as Norwegian Cruise Line, to learn more on Maui emergency management and recovery information or to kōkua (help) the people of Maui, visit mauistrong.hawaii.gov. You can also learn more about the areas of Maui that remain open and are welcoming visitors at gohawaii.com/maui.

See More Cruise News