Swaying palm trees, surfing and luaus are just a few of the attractions that await, on a cruise to Hawaii. The winter months, from late December to early January, are the most popular, and perhaps more expensive, times to cruise. Whale season runs from November to early May and it’s possible to find cheaper deals, discounts and fewer crowds on deck in the shoulder seasons of late May, September and early December.
Cruises to Hawaii offer an incredibly diverse range of port highlights, to explore natural wonders, historical delights and underwater life. One of the most popular ports is Honolulu, on the island of Oahu. Passengers disembark to swim at the famous Waikiki Beach, visit Pearl Harbor, trek the Diamond Head Crater and take helicopter flights for panoramic views of the stunning coastlines and lush valleys.
Kona is a port on the Big Island, with the pristine blue waters, tropical marine life and sunny weather cruises to Hawaii are famous for. Shore excursions include exploring sea caves, swimming and snorkelling in the protected waters of Kealakekua Bay. In season, whale watching trips are available and it’s always a good time to board a catamaran and explore the coast. On land, historical attractions such as Pu'uhonua O Honaunau and St. Benedict’s painted church, join tastings of Kona coffee and tropical forest hikes to visit waterfalls.
Also located on the Big Island, Hilo is the gateway to Volcanoes National Park and the most active volcano in the world, Kilauea. Passengers can take guided tours through active lava fields and helicopter rides for a bird’s eye view. A visit to the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is a popular excursion, as are trips to small farms to learn about local life and waterfall treks through tropical vegetation.
Home to the twisting Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park, Maui is a must to discover, on a Hawaii cruise. Excursions to the Maui Tropical Plantation are popular, to learn about Hawaii’s delicious fruits. Guests also have the opportunity to snorkel on coral reefs filled with marine life, journey to the top of Haleakala Crater at sunset, hike through lush rainforests with naturalist guides, learn how to surf and visit Lahaina for shops, boutiques and historical sites.
Kauai, nicknamed “The Garden Island”, offers cruise ship passengers the chance to see dramatic mountain landscapes, hike the rainforests of Haena, ride on the Kauai Plantation Railroad, visit Waimea Canyon and join a traditional Hawaiian Luau. There are also adventure activities available, including ziplining, kayaking and snorkeling.
Two of the main cruise lines servicing Hawaii are Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. Norwegian’s Pride of America offers sailing itineraries year-round, with a popular 7-Day cruise visiting all four islands. It’s a family-friendly cruise ship, with 19 dining options, vibrant bars and lounges, on board shopping, a spa, live shows, pools and The Splash Academy to keep children entertained.
Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas typically offers 10 or 12 night itineraries, with ports of call including Honolulu, Maui, Kona, Hilo and Kauai. Royal Caribbean are famous for excellent on board activities, for all ages and inclinations, and this ship appeals to couples, singles and families. Passengers on the Radiance of the Seas enjoy a rock climbing wall, a casino, mini golf, salsa dancing, night clubs, guest lectures, big production shows, movies under the stars, shops, pools and sports courts.
A cruise to Hawaii allows passengers to experience one of the most beautiful regions in the world, while enjoying the comfort, entertainment, excitement and glamour of top cruise lines, all year round.
