End of An Era: Jack’s Last Tour

Last week, Jack’s Tours reported that the company would be closing after 52 years in business due to the decline in tourism due to Kīlauea’s eruptions, which shut down Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park and isolated many parts of the Puna District.

Jack’s Tours final day of business was Tuesday, July 31, 2018. PC: BIN

On Tuesday, July 31, 2018, the company officially had its last tour, which consisted of two busses loaded with company employees—as they took one last tour around Hilo town to thank the community for the many years of support and service.

Jack’s Tours. PC: BIN

President Jeff Miyashiro said 70-plus employees are being affected by the shutdown of the company.

Jack’s Tours employees board the bus for one last tour of Hilo. PC: BIN

A few long-term employees were at the company base located on Kanoelehua Avenue near the Hilo Airport on its final day, and while some were disappointed, others looked forward to new opportunities.

Miyashiro thanked everyone, including his customers, employees, business partners and community members, who supported Jack’s Tours over the last 50 years.

The company had about 40 buses and tour vans which it is slowly trying to liquidate.

The following is now posted on the company’s website:

We regret to announce that we will be closing down our business and operations. Our last day of providing services will be July 31, 2018. The downturn in tourism due to the volcanic activity on Hawai‘i Island has affected our business significantly and, unfortunately, we are unable to continue operations due to the significant decrease in business levels with no foreseeable improvement in the near future. We are very grateful for your business and support, and sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.