Hawaii is an archipelago that stretches more than 1,500 miles across the north Pacific Ocean and is one of the most isolated land masses on the globe. Not only does such isolation mean that the islands have developed a singularly stunning natural beauty, but also that they are accessible only by a lengthy flight or cruise. Visiting Hawaii via cruise ship affords you the opportunity to explore the chain by water and see it in the same way that European explorers, like Captain James Cook, and the Polynesians who settled the islands did when the craggy volcanoes rose over the horizon to greet their vessels.

Step 1

Select your point of departure. Of the cruise lines that service Hawaii, some offer itineraries that depart from the mainland, typically San Diego or Los Angeles, while other itineraries depart from Honolulu. If you enjoy sea days on your cruises and are looking for a longer itinerary, a mainland departure is probably your best option. On the other hand, a flight to Honolulu gets you to the islands much more quickly, reduces the overall cost of the cruise and eliminates the number of days you will spend at sea. A Honolulu departure also allows you to extend your time in the islands on either side of the cruise.

Step 2

Book with a cruise line that can accommodate your itinerary and point of departure. Several major cruise operators, notably Princess, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise lines, offer cruises throughout the main Hawaiian islands and include ports of call on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island.

Step 3

Reserve your shore excursions in advance. Whether you decide to book them through the ship or set off on your own, many of the ports, while accustomed to tourists, can become overwhelmed when 3,000 passengers debark a ship at once, particularly in ports like Lahaina, Maui, and Lihue, Kauai. On Maui, driving the road to Hana and climbing the switch backs to the top of Haleakala volcano are both recommended activities. Visit Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor and the North Shore on Oahu. On Kauai, hike the Waimea Canyon and kayak along the Na Pali coast or up the Wailua River. Take a surfing lesson on any island -- Goofy Foot Surf School offers a laid-back, fun experience just steps from Lahaina Harbor on Maui.


  • If you are at all prone to motion sickness (and probably even if you're not), pack a motion sickness remedy such as ear patches or Dramamine, and use it at the first sign of imbalance. The Pacific swells can be quite large and felt on even the largest ship, regardless of its state-of-the-art stabilizer system.


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