Cruising offers a way to experience new destinations while enjoying the comforts of life at sea. Each day brings fresh landscapes and cultures as travelers journey from port to port. The following options highlight some of the best Hawaii cruise experiences available.
1. Norwegian Cruise Line: Pride of America
Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America offers a unique seven-night Hawaii cruise. It's the only major weeklong itinerary sailing exclusively between the Hawaiian Islands year-round. Departing from Honolulu every Saturday, the cruise includes:
- Overnight stays in Maui and Kauai
- Stops at Kona and Hilo on the Big Island
- Scenic cruising along Kauai's Napali Coast
This cruise allows travelers to explore multiple Hawaiian islands without complex travel logistics. Guests can experience Hawaii's landscapes, culture, and beaches while enjoying the convenience of unpacking only once.
2. UnCruise Adventures: Safari Explorer
UnCruise Adventures' Safari Explorer offers a 7-day small-ship cruise for those seeking a more intimate and adventurous experience in Hawaii. With only 36 passengers, this cruise focuses on exploring less-visited islands like Moloka'i and Lana'i.
The itinerary includes:
- Water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding
- Guided hikes through Hawaii's natural landscapes
- Access to secluded areas that larger ships can't reach
This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to engage more deeply with Hawaii's natural beauty and local culture, offering a different perspective from traditional large-ship cruises.
3. Carnival Cruise Lines: Carnival Journeys
Carnival Journeys offers a 14-day cruise from Long Beach to Hawaii, balancing sea days with island exploration. The itinerary includes:
- Stops in Maui, Honolulu (with an overnight stay), Kaua'i, and the Big Island
- A concluding visit to Ensenada, Mexico
- Ample time to enjoy the ship's amenities and activities during sea days
At each Hawaiian port, travelers have the opportunity to experience the unique characteristics of the islands, from Maui's Road to Hana to O'ahu's Pearl Harbor. This cruise combines the relaxation of extended time at sea with the excitement of exploring multiple Hawaiian destinations, appealing to those who enjoy both aspects of cruising.
4. Repositioning Cruises: Various Lines
Repositioning cruises offer unique itineraries as ships move between seasons or regions. Lines such as Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises provide these voyages, typically lasting 8 to 13 nights, often sailing from Vancouver to Honolulu.
These cruises feature:
- Extended periods at sea
- Full utilization of the ship's amenities and onboard activities
- Flexibility to explore the islands further with pre- or post-cruise arrangements
Repositioning cruises often come with attractive pricing and appeal to those who enjoy both the journey and the destination. They provide a different cruising experience, combining leisurely sea days with the excitement of reaching Hawaii.
5. Two-Week Round-Trips: From the West Coast
Princess, Carnival, and Holland America offer 14- to 18-night round-trip cruises to Hawaii from West Coast cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle. These voyages include:
- Multiple days at sea
- Visits to several Hawaiian islands
- Often a stop in Ensenada, Mexico
The extended duration allows for a comprehensive exploration of the Hawaiian archipelago, with each island offering distinct experiences. The sea days provide time for relaxation and enjoyment of the ship's facilities.
These round-trip cruises are suitable for those who prefer to depart and return to the same port, offering a blend of Pacific Ocean cruising and Hawaiian island discovery.
Cruising to Hawaii provides a range of options for travelers, from intimate small-ship experiences to extended voyages on larger vessels. Each type of cruise offers a unique way to explore the Hawaiian Islands while enjoying the benefits of sea travel. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there's a Hawaii cruise to suit your preferences.
- Norwegian Cruise Line. Pride of America Itinerary. Norwegian Cruise Line website.
- UnCruise Adventures. Safari Explorer Hawaii Cruise. UnCruise Adventures website.
- Carnival Cruise Line. Carnival Journeys Hawaii Cruise. Carnival Cruise Line website.
- Royal Caribbean International. Repositioning Cruises. Royal Caribbean website.
- Princess Cruises. Hawaii Cruises. Princess Cruises website.