The Celebrity Edge cruise ship, with over 4,200 passengers and crew, mightily descended on the Na Pali Coast recently off Kauai. They didn’t just go there, they almost touched it when the ship came 1,000 feet from shore in shallow water. To protect the environment and marine life of the Na Pali, ships can only come within 3,000 feet of this 17 mile coastline reachable on land only by foot. The Na Pali Coast is environmentally fragile and sensitive. This stunning north shore area, known for dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and pristine beaches, remains largely unspoiled. We can attest to it being among the most beautiful and remote places in Hawaii.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) has confirmed its investigation into the matter, collaborating with partners such as the U.S. Coast Guard and the state Department of Transportation to assess the extent of the violation and its implications.
Environmental advocates highlighted the potential harm caused by disturbances to the seabed and marine ecosystems, emphasizing the need for stringent enforcement of regulations to protect fragile coastal environments.
There are better ways to visit the Na Pali starting with hiking on the famous Kalalau Trail or taking a small boat tour. The other possibility is flying over it in a helicopter. As you may recall, even the Pride of America cruise ship, which does weekly sailings of the Hawaiian islands, is no longer bringing its big ship here on Kauai.
Concerns raised about the environmental footprint of cruise ships.
This incident comes amid broader concerns about the impact cruise ships have on marine ecosystems. Cruise companies have faced increasing scrutiny over their environmental practices, including wastewater management, emissions controls, and adherence to coastal navigation regulations. Violations of these regulations not only pose immediate risks to marine life and habitats but also tarnish the reputation of cruise operators and jeopardize the sustainability of tourism in affected regions.
Delicate balance between tourism and sustainable travel in Hawaii.
The Na Pali Coast holds immense cultural significance for Native Hawaiians and is a cherished destination for residents and tourists seeking natural beauty and adventure.
As one of the state’s premier tourist attractions, the Na Pali Coast attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the local economy while also placing pressure on natural and cultural resources.
Sustainable tourism initiatives, including eco-certifications for tour operators and educational programs for visitors, play a crucial role in promoting responsible behavior and mitigating the negative impacts of tourism on fragile ecosystems and cultural heritage sites.
Stakeholders grapple with the challenges posed by increasing tourism and maritime activities.
Collaboration between government agencies, cruise operators, local communities, and environmental organizations will be essential in safeguarding the integrity of cherished destinations like the Na Pali Coast for future generations.
The incident with the Celebrity Edge serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding environmental protection measures and promoting sustainable tourism practices to ensure the long-term preservation of Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Please share your thoughts on this Napali Coast cruise ship incident.
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It is time to restrict the passage of these cruise ships into sensitive areas such as the Napali Coast. Venice, Italy now restricts large ships.. time for Hawai’i to do the same!
I think the captain should be delt with harshly. He knows better, and the cruise ship company Celebrity should be more harshly fined. I have been lucky enough to have toured the NaPali Coast 3 times by 20ft inflatables, Great times, and 2 times by Catamaran type vessels, very relaxing and nice. We have also hiked many of the trails. The Islands needs to be treated with all the possible respect as possible. With that we are headed back to Kauai again this coming July, I can’t wait.
My thoughts? Outrage. Ban cruise ship along Na Pali and save the ecosystem and marine life. Limits on boat tours, helicopter and hiking to Kalaulau.
Captain must have been schooled by the same outfit that trained the Italian who ran aground a few years ago.
That said, Hawaii officials remind me of a third world cop who realizes he stopped a foreigner doing some minor offense, and now realizes he has an opportunity to make a great deal of money out of a minor incident. They just hope it isn’t a federal fine, and the feds keep it all.
It’s not just the Na Pali coast. It’s the entire West Coast. This ship came way too close to Poipu Beach. A friend lives there and was out for an early morning (6:30am) bike ride. He and his neighbor were shocked at what they saw Initially they thought the ship had run a ground it was so close. They said it appeared to be barely beyond the rock jetty off Brennecke’s Beach. The neighbor took pictures. My understanding from someone involved in the investigation is that the Captain is very arrogant. Hopefully all state and federal agencies lower the boom on this guy. He should loose his license.
Totally agree, yank his license , and hit him in the pocket book.
In the bad old days of cruising a lot of the comments relative to “discharging” waste was definitely an issue but after numerous enforcements of maritime regulations the cruise industry has really and literally cleaned up their act so this is really not an issue anymore. Container ships are another issue altogether so try to keep some perspective.
Having said that, what the ship’s bridge crew did by going where they did near Kauai is just unimaginable And unforgivable. Somebody onboard, whether it was the Captain of the vessel, or whomever was piloting the ship should lose their license over this. There is No excuse whatsoever for what happened.