Cruise ships in Hawaii faced sudden changes on July 29–30, 2025, after a tsunami alert forced early departures and disrupted travel plans. The alert, triggered by an 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, led to emergency actions across the islands, affecting thousands of passengers and local businesses.
The Pride of America, operated by Norwegian Cruise Line, received orders to leave Hilo, Hawaii, two hours ahead of schedule after the state declared a state of emergency. Emergency sirens sounded, and authorities warned of possible waves up to 10 feet. Some cruise passengers, caught off guard by the quick departure, were stranded ashore. Those on official excursions were taken to a local high school, where they received food and emergency instructions.
Hilo Harbor remains closed as of July 30, pending a safety inspection by local officials and the U.S. Coast Guard. The Pride of America and other ships followed standard tsunami protocols, moving out to deeper water to avoid danger. The U.S. Tsunami Warning System and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center worked closely with cruise lines and local authorities to monitor the situation and provide updates.
Passengers described confusion and panic as they rushed to reach their ships. Videos on social media showed tourists stranded at the port, worried about how to rejoin their cruise. Stranded guests were told to follow local emergency procedures and wait for further instructions from cruise line staff and officials.
The tsunami alert affected not just Hawaii but also cruise operations in Alaska, Japan, Mexico, and other Pacific regions. Major cruise lines, including Disney, checked ship locations and moved vessels to safer waters as needed.
As of July 30, tsunami warnings for Hawaii have been lifted, but authorities continue to watch for aftershocks. Stranded passengers are expected to reboard their ships once Hilo Harbor is cleared for safe operations.
Cruise lines must follow strict emergency rules during tsunami alerts, including early departures and rerouting ships to deep water. Passengers on shore excursions are prioritized for evacuation to safe zones, with cruise lines providing support and updates.
This disruption comes as Hawaii debates new cruise industry rules, including possible taxes and environmental limits. The cruise industry brings nearly $1 billion to Hawaii’s economy each year and supports over 6,400 jobs. Proposed policies could cut cruise ship visits by up to 75% by 2035, costing the state $65 million per year and affecting 250,000 visitors.
Norwegian Cruise Line stressed that guest and crew safety remains their top priority. The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency urged everyone to follow evacuation orders until the all-clear is given. Local businesses worry about both the immediate impact and possible long-term changes.
For those affected:
- If stranded ashore: Follow instructions from authorities and cruise staff, go to safe zones, and wait for updates.
- If on board: Stay at sea until the port is cleared.
- For future trips: Check cruise line updates and review travel insurance for natural disaster coverage.
For official updates, visit the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency. As reported by VisaVerge.com, cruise lines and authorities are expected to review emergency plans after this event to improve safety and communication.
Learn Today
Tsunami Alert → An official warning about a possible large sea wave caused by underwater seismic activity.
State of Emergency → A government declaration allowing special measures during disasters to protect people and property.
Pride of America → A Norwegian Cruise Line ship operating in Hawaii affected by the tsunami alert in 2025.
Hilo Harbor → A major port in Hawaii closed temporarily for safety inspections after the tsunami warning.
Pacific Tsunami Warning Center → An agency monitoring seismic activity and issuing tsunami warnings for Pacific region safety.
This Article in a Nutshell
A sudden tsunami alert in Hawaii on July 29 forced cruise ships like Pride of America to leave early. The harbor closed for safety inspections, disrupting travel and stranding passengers. Cruise lines followed emergency procedures, prioritizing safety amid ongoing monitoring of aftershocks and regional impacts across the Pacific.
— By VisaVerge.com
