DLNR Letter to the Cruise Ship Industry

Celebrity Cruise Lines
Other cruise line companies
May 31, 2024
Aloha,
On May 29, 2024, the Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) announced that the
Division of Conservation and Resources Enforcement (DOCARE) completed its investigation to
determine whether the Celebrity Cruise Line ship, Celebrity Edge violated any state rules. DOCARE’s
investigation failed to find definitive evidence that the U.S. flagged cruise ship violated any state rules
while traversing along Kauai’s Nāpali Coast earlier this month.
While DOCARE’s investigation could not conclude that the cruise ship, carrying more than 50
passengers, was traveling within 3,000 feet of the shoreline, community concerns and photographs
appear to show the ship was indeed much closer to shore. This incident created a tremendous amount of
angst in the community, as this area is highly protected and valued for its natural beauty and cultural
significance. These nearshore waters, along the Nāpali Coast, are frequented by fishers, divers,
kayakers, and swimmers because of its calm waters and rich marine resources.
We recognize the cruise ship industry’s contributions to the state’s economy. However, the mission of
the DLNR is to ensure Hawai‘i’s precious and unique natural and cultural resources are protected now
and in perpetuity. We are putting the industry on notice that the DLNR and the community will be
closely monitoring activity not only along the Nāpali Coast, but throughout our state ocean waters. We
urge you to conduct your operations in compliance with not only the letter of the law, but in the spirit of
Aloha.
Sincerely,
Dawn Chang
Chair
Hawai‘i Dept. of Land and Natural Resources
Hawai‘i Board of Natural Resources