The Hawaiian Islands are a sought-after vacation spot thanks in part to its many unique experiences. Tanning on a black sand beach, attending a traditional lūʻau or learning how to hula dance are just a few. The activities and scenery may lure you, but what will bring you back is the “spirit of Aloha,” a way of living in peace and harmony with the earth and each other.
A Hawaii cruise is a stress-free way to visit multiple islands and discover the unique identity that each one possesses. The cruise ports are centrally located and within walking distance or a short taxi ride to scenic beaches. Most cruise lines offer complimentary shuttles to shopping centers, so there's no need to rent a car. Some itineraries also include overnight stays, providing extra time to explore. From snorkeling off the coast of Maui to surfing the waters of Honolulu on Oahu, a Hawaii cruise offers something for everyone.
Sailing through the Hawaiian islands is beyond spectacular. You just have to decide if you want to fly to Hawaii and cruise from there, or sail from the mainland.
Norwegian is the only cruise line to sail 7-day cruises that start and finish in Honolulu virtually every week. They can do this because Pride of America is the only U.S.-flagged cruise ship! Search this Cruise Line.
Round trip departures from places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle and Vancouver are perfect for enjoying extra days at sea. Carnival has 15-day itineraries that start and finish in San Diego with stops in Maui, Kauai, Honolulu, Kona and Hilo. Search this Cruise Line.
For the true adventurer, choose a Hawaii cruise that also take you to islands in the South Pacific. Holland America Line pairs Hawaiian itineraries with longer journeys to exotic places like Tahiti and Bora Bora. Search this Cruise Line.
Most cruise lines depart for Hawaii (Honolulu) from the west coast of North America, with an average crossing time of four days. Once in the Hawaiian Islands, you’ll spend from 4-6 days island hopping before disembarking in Honolulu or returning to the mainland (reverse itineraries from Honolulu to the west coast are also available). Norwegian Cruise Line is the only major cruise line that can offer 7-night cruises roundtrip from Honolulu.
Hawaii is most popular in the winter, from December-April, with Christmas and New Year's being particularly busy. Easter break typically marks the end of peak season. During the last week of April, there's a stretch of national holidays in Japan, known as “Golden Week,” that creates another rush of visitors to these shores. Hawaii's summer crowds are filled with families whose kids are on their summer break.
The quietest time to go is right after school has started but before winter begins: September to mid-November. Airlines and cruise lines offer lower rates to attract visitors, especially those willing to travel on weekdays. Cruise ships are less crowded and skew an older demographic. The weather and water is still warm and it’s the tail end of the dry season.
The wet season in Hawaii runs from November to March and is ideal for waterfall viewing. The whale-watching season is at its peak from January through March. Hawaii enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round and rarely sees temperatures dip below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Hawaii's hurricane season runs from June through November.
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