Inter-island cruises return with added safeguards to prevent COVID outbreaks

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - For the first time in more than two years, The Pride of America Cruise ship has relaunched their inter-island sailings.

Hawaii DOT officials say for the initial trips, the Norwegian Cruise liner will only be at 50% capacity, which is just over 1,000 passengers and crewmembers aboard.

Everyone must be vaccinated or show proof of a negative test before boarding

“The port agreements in the cruise industry is far more regulated than the airline industry, so when it comes to COVID-19, we have had people call worried about any sort of an outbreak or any cases that may be on board. Just know that there are strict regulations that are put in place,” the DOT’s Jai Cunningham said.

Some of those safeguards includes medical quarantine facilities and testing available on board.

Two restaurants also on the ship will be closed.

The ship is planning 7-day tours with stops On Oahu Maui, Hilo, Kailua Kona and Kauai.