Hawaii Refuses Entry to Passengers of Two Cruise Ships

Cruise passengers from two cruise ships are set to arrive at port in Hawaii in the next few days, but Hawaiian authorities will not allow the passengers to disembark.

HawaiiNewsNow.com reports that the Norwegian Jewel and the Holland American Maasdam will call on Hawaiian ports to refuel and load up on supplies. But despite neither of the ships having any passengers confirmed to be ill with coronavirus, Hawaiian authorities will not allow the passengers to exit the ship.

In a statement Jade Butay, Director of Hawaii Department of Transportation, said “The health and safety of all people in Hawaii is always at the forefront of operational decisions. Presently, all state resources are focused and directed towards containing the spread of COVID-19. Allowing more than 2,500 passengers and crew to disembark will further strain these resources.” 

The report indicates that the Maasdam is carrying about 850 passengers and the Jewel is carrying approximately 1,700 passengers.