Mauna Loa, on the Big Island of Hawaii, began erupting late Sunday, a situation that's being closely monitored by scientists at the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory and Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, which are providing regular updates.
Ships dock far away
On the Big Island, cruise ships dock at Hilo on the east side and Kailua-Kona on the west.
'The eruption is about as far away as you can get from both ports. It's right in the middle of the island,' Ilihia Gionson, public affairs officer, Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA), told Seatrade Cruise News.
According to the latest update, the lava flow is contained to a small area which is not populated. Gionson noted volcanic eruptions are dynamic and things can change quickly but, at this time, 'All's well.
'We're not advising anyone to change any travel plans by air or by sea,' he said.
Air quality fine at the moment
Gionson added the air quality is fine at the moment and is being actively monitored by the Department of Health. Were things to worsen, people with respiratory issues may be advised to stay inside on a bad day.
'As someone born and raised in the islands, having an active volcano is a way of life,' Gionson said. 'Kīlauea was erupting when I was born. It's part of the dynamism that makes Hawaii so special.'
The last time Mauna Loa erupted was in 1984. According to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park website, it has erupted 33 times since 1843, averaging once every five years.
Kīlauea, also on the Big Island, is still erupting and lava can be seen at the caldera.
Shannon McKee, president of Miami-based Access Cruise, which works with HTA on cruise matters, said there aren't many calls at this time of the year, mainly NCL, a few by Princess Cruises and one by Carnival Miracle.
Pride of America and Norwegian Spirit on schedule
She said Pride of America and Norwegian Spirit were due to arrive today, as scheduled.
As for excursions, tour operators have not notified McKee of any schedule changes so far.
She has been sharing updates with the lines so they are aware of the status.
Anyone who's interested can sign up to receive email updates directly from the HTA at hawaiitourismauthority.org, at the bottom of the page.
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