Reviews
Cruise ship sailing in turquoise waters with city skyline and mountains in the background, highlighting scenic Hawaiian cruise experience.

Hawaiian Cruises: Scenic, Cultural & Relaxing Island Adventures

Explore Hawaiian

Explore Scenic, Cultural & Relaxing Hawaiian Cruises

Scenic, Cultural, Relaxing

Cruise ship sailing in turquoise waters with city skyline and mountains in the background, highlighting scenic Hawaiian cruise experience. Hawaiian cruises offer a truly unique way to explore the breathtaking beauty of the islands. From the dramatic cliffs of Kauai’s Napali Coast to the lush rainforests and waterfalls of Maui, each island brings its own charm and adventure. Departing from ports like Honolulu, these cruises allow you to experience the diverse culture, rich history, and stunning landscapes of Hawaii, all while enjoying the comforts of life at sea. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, learning about Polynesian culture, or simply relaxing on pristine beaches, a Hawaiian cruise provides an u

    Frequently Asked Questions for a Hawaiian Cruise

    Several cruise lines offer Hawaiian itineraries, including:

    • Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Pride of America offers year-round, 7-day inter-island cruises from Honolulu.
    • Princess Cruises & Holland America: Seasonal cruises, typically roundtrip from the U.S. West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Vancouver).
    • Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruises: Select sailings with longer itineraries from the mainland.
    • Luxury & Small Ship Cruises: UnCruise Adventures offers intimate Hawaiian exploration cruises.

    Hawaiian cruises are available year-round, but the best time depends on your preferences:

    • April–June & September–November: Fewer crowds, better pricing, and pleasant weather.
    • December–March: Peak travel season with higher prices and whale-watching opportunities.
    • Summer (June–August): Ideal for families but can be crowded and more expensive.

    Most Hawaiian cruises visit multiple islands, with stops at:

    • Oahu (Honolulu): Visit Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head.
    • Maui: Explore the Road to Hana, Haleakalā National Park, and top beaches.
    • Kauai: Known for Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, and Wailua River.
    • Big Island (Hilo & Kona): See active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and historic coffee farms.

    • Honolulu, Hawaii: Norwegian Cruise Line (Pride of America) offers year-round inter-island cruises.
    • Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego: Longer sailings (typically 15+ days roundtrip) with multiple sea days.
    • Vancouver, Canada: Seasonal repositioning cruises to Hawaii (Spring & Fall).

    • 7-Day Cruises: Best option for island-hopping, sailing roundtrip from Honolulu.
    • 10–15+ Day Cruises: Depart from California or Vancouver, often with several sea days.
    • Repositioning Cruises: One-way sailings between Hawaii and the West Coast (Spring & Fall).

    • Oahu: Tour Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond Head, or take a catamaran cruise.
    • Maui: Drive the Road to Hana, visit Haleakalā for sunrise, or go snorkeling at Molokini Crater.
    • Kauai: Take a helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast, hike Waimea Canyon, or kayak Wailua River.
    • Big Island: Visit Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, snorkel with manta rays, or explore a Kona coffee farm.

    • No, for roundtrip U.S. sailings (Hawaii inter-island or roundtrip from California).
    • Yes, if departing from Vancouver, Canada or if visiting international ports.

    • Lightweight, breathable clothing & swimwear.
    • Sunscreen (reef-safe), sunglasses, and a hat.
    • Waterproof phone case & dry bag for excursions.
    • Comfortable walking shoes & hiking gear for adventure excursions.
    • Evening attire for formal dining (if applicable).
    • Snorkel gear (optional, or rent on the islands).

    • Humpback Whales (December–April): Best seen off Maui & Big Island.
    • Sea Turtles: Common in Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island.
    • Dolphins & Manta Rays: Kona and the Na Pali Coast offer great opportunities.
    • Tropical Fish & Coral Reefs: Snorkeling in Molokini Crater, Hanauma Bay, and Kealakekua Bay.

    • No, but most cruise fares include accommodations, meals, and onboard entertainment.
    • Extra costs include: Specialty dining, shore excursions, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and alcoholic beverages.
    • Norwegian’s Pride of America offers a Free at Sea program that includes beverage packages, dining credits, and Wi-Fi for some bookings.

    • Cruises offer hassle-free island-hopping without the need for multiple flights and hotels.
    • Great for first-time Hawaii visitors who want to see multiple islands in one trip.
    • Land-based vacations provide more flexibility for extended stays on a specific island.
    • Cruises have limited time in port, so longer land stays allow deeper exploration.