Introduction
Cruises to Hawaii are a fun and relaxing way to explore the beautiful Hawaiian Islands. Many people choose a cruise instead of flying because it combines travel, accommodation, food, and entertainment all in one place. You get to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Where Do Hawaii Cruises Start?
Most Cruises to Hawaii start from the west coast of the United States. Popular departure ports include Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Seattle. Some cruises even leave from Vancouver, Canada. A few cruise lines also offer “round-trip” cruises that begin and end in Honolulu, Hawaii.
What You’ll See
A typical Hawaii cruise lasts 7 to 15 days, depending on where it starts. Most cruises visit several Hawaiian Islands, such as:
- Oahu – Home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach
- Maui – Known for its beautiful beaches and the scenic Road to Hana
- Kauai – Called the “Garden Island” because of its green mountains and waterfalls
- Big Island (Hawaii) – Offers volcanoes, black sand beaches, and stargazing
Some longer cruises may also stop at other places like Ensenada, Mexico or islands in the South Pacific.
Life on the Cruise Ship
Cruise ships are like floating resorts. They have comfortable rooms, restaurants, swimming pools, gyms, theaters, and kids’ clubs. You can enjoy shows, games, dance classes, or just relax on deck with a drink. Meals are usually included, and there are often special Hawaiian-themed nights with music and food.
Many ships also offer Hawaiian cultural activities, like lei-making, ukulele lessons, or hula dancing.
Shore Excursions
When the ship stops at an island, you can take part in shore excursions. These are short trips or tours organized by the cruise line. Some examples are:
- Snorkeling with sea turtles
- Hiking through a rainforest
- Visiting a volcano or lava field
- Learning about Hawaiian history and culture
- Taking a helicopter ride for amazing views
You can also explore on your own if you prefer.
Best Time to Go
Hawaii cruises are available year-round, but the best time to go is during the dry season, from April to October. The weather is warm and sunny, and the ocean is calm. Winter cruises (November to March) are also popular because humpback whales can often be seen near the islands.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Passports: If your cruise stays within the U.S., like Hawaii-only cruises, you don’t need a passport if you’re a U.S. citizen. But if the cruise stops in another country (like Mexico or Canada), you’ll need one.
- Packing: Bring comfortable clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler nights.
- Motion Sickness: Most people don’t feel sick on modern cruise ships, but it’s a good idea to bring motion sickness medicine just in case.
Conclusion
A cruise to Cruises to Hawaii a great way to enjoy the islands with ease and comfort. Whether you want to relax, explore nature, or learn about Hawaiian culture, a cruise offers something for everyone. It’s a dream vacation that’s both exciting and peaceful at the same time.