Norwegian Cruise Line Adjusts Christmas Itinerary
Norwegian Cruise Ship Alters Regular Itinerary Due to Swells
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America has made significant changes to its Christmas cruise itinerary due to unsafe wave conditions in Maui. Originally scheduled to dock in Kahului, Maui, on December 22, 2024, the ship will instead enjoy a scenic day at sea. This decision prioritizes the safety of passengers and crew amid hazardous weather conditions.
The Pride of America, known for its year-round 7-night inter-island cruises from Honolulu, departed on December 21, 2024. Guests were informed of the itinerary change once they boarded the ship. The notification emphasized the cruise line’s commitment to safety, stating, “While we have made every effort to maintain the original itinerary and provide you with the vacation you purchased, the safety of our guests and crew remains our top priority.”
Despite the cancellation of the overnight stay in Kahului, the ship will still visit the port on December 23, 2024, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Guests can look forward to enjoying the ship’s amenities and activities during the day at sea on December 22.
Reasons Behind the Itinerary Change
The cancellation of the scheduled visit to Kahului is primarily due to a winter swell phenomenon. This weather pattern often originates from storms near the Aleutian Islands in Alaska, which then travel toward Hawaii. As these swells approach, they can create large waves and strong currents, particularly along the northern shores of the islands.
Kahului, located on Maui’s north shore, is somewhat sheltered. However, the conditions can still pose significant risks for docking. The swells can make it difficult for the ship to maneuver safely into the harbor. Additionally, the movement of the gangways during rough seas can be dangerous for passengers and crew members boarding or disembarking the ship.
While the decision to alter the itinerary may disappoint some passengers, safety is the cruise line’s foremost concern. Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to ensuring that all guests have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.
What to Expect During the Cruise
Despite the changes to the itinerary, guests aboard the Pride of America can still look forward to a memorable cruise experience. On December 22, instead of visiting Kahului, the ship will offer a day of scenic cruising. Passengers will have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Maui’s volcanic peaks and lush tropical coastline.
The ship is equipped with a variety of amenities and activities to keep guests entertained. From dining options to onboard entertainment, there will be plenty to enjoy while sailing through the stunning Hawaiian waters.
For those who had booked shore excursions in Kahului for December 22, Norwegian Cruise Line will automatically cancel these tours and issue full refunds to guests’ onboard accounts. Passengers do not need to visit the Shore Excursion desk for these changes, although they can explore additional tour options available for the visit on December 23.
The Pride of America is designed to accommodate 2,186 passengers and has a crew of over 900 members dedicated to providing excellent service. Following the visit to Kahului, the ship will continue its itinerary with stops in Hilo, Kona, and Nawiliwili, ensuring that guests still experience the beauty and culture of Hawaii during their cruise.
