Hawaii Cruise Guide: Top Itineraries, Travel Tips, and Things to Experience

A Hawaii cruise is the perfect way to explore the islands. You get to enjoy stunning beaches, thrilling water sports, lush landscapes, and rich Polynesian culture — all without the need to fly between islands.

Additionally, a cruise provides a comfortable home base to store your belongings, enjoy onboard entertainment without commuting, and savor leisurely dinners without worrying about the cost.

That said, cruising around Hawaii isn’t without its challenges, as itineraries can be restrictive. This is due to U.S. regulations that prevent foreign-flagged ships from traveling directly between U.S. ports unless they stop at a foreign port.

Most cruise ships are registered in other countries, which means they can’t offer interisland trips. Only two cruise lines provide these options; others must offer longer voyages that depart from the U.S. West Coast, either one-way or round-trip.

If a Hawaii cruise seems like your ideal vacation, you’ll want to explore the different itineraries offered by various cruise lines, along with the must-visit islands and ports.

We’ve compiled all the essential information you need to select the perfect Hawaiian cruise that fits your travel preferences, budget, and vacation time.

What makes cruising to Hawaii so appealing?

It's no secret that Hawaii is one of the best vacation spots around. With stunning beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, picturesque hiking trails, rich culture and history, amazing food, luxury resorts, top-tier golf courses, and countless waterfalls and rainbows, it truly has it all.

Why choose a cruise over staying at a hotel or resort? The main advantage is the ability to explore multiple islands in one trip.

Many visitors to Hawaii typically stick to one or two islands. However, if you want to experience the best of several islands, from the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii’s Hilo to Kauai’s stunning Waimea Canyon and Napali Coast, a cruise offers a much easier way to see it all.

Furthermore, accommodation costs in Hawaii can be steep, given its popularity. Dining out can also be pricey, as many food items need to be imported from the mainland or elsewhere.

On a cruise, you can enjoy the island’s local cuisine while in port, but also indulge in unlimited meals on board, many of which are already included in your cruise package.

When do cruises visit Hawaii?

You can cruise to Hawaii throughout the year, but the available itineraries depend on when you choose to sail. Norwegian Cruise Line is the only major cruise line that offers weekly, year-round voyages to the islands.

For those seeking longer trips, round-trip cruises from the West Coast or small-ship adventure sailings, the best options are available between mid-September and April.

During the spring and fall, when the Alaska cruise season begins and ends, you’ll find repositioning cruises that either sail one-way between Hawaii and Vancouver, British Columbia, or Seattle, or head from the Pacific Northwest all the way to the South Pacific, with Hawaii as a stop along the route.

Summer offers the fewest options for Hawaii cruises.

Top Hawaii Cruise Itineraries

Hawaii cruises typically fall into three main categories: weeklong interisland sailings, round-trip cruises from the West Coast, and one-way repositioning voyages.

The best cruise for you will depend on factors such as how much time you have for vacation, how many islands you want to explore, whether you prefer overnight stays in port, and how you feel about having several consecutive days at sea.

Interisland Cruises

In my opinion, the top Hawaii itinerary is Norwegian Cruise Line's seven-night round-trip sailings from Honolulu aboard the Pride of America. This U.S.-flagged ship is the only large vessel that can offer interisland cruises without visiting a foreign port.

This itinerary includes two-night overnight stops in Maui and Kauai, as well as visits to Kona and Hilo on the Big Island. Passengers will also enjoy scenic cruising along Kauai's iconic Napali Coast. You can easily extend your stay in Honolulu before or after the cruise to explore attractions like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head Crater, and Pearl Harbor, or opt for an NCL-organized cruisetour that combines the weeklong cruise with a three-night land tour.

For a more unique interisland experience, UnCruise Adventures offers a more adventurous option aboard the 36-passenger Safari Explorer, which focuses on off-the-beaten-path destinations.

This cruise also visits Maui, Hawaii, and the smaller islands of Lanai and Molokai, offering plenty of water activities and nature excursions. Daily schedules may change depending on weather or whale sightings. These adventure cruises operate from November to April.

Round-Trip Hawaii Cruises from the West Coast

Many major cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America, offer 14- to 18-night round-trip voyages to Hawaii from West Coast ports like Los Angeles, Long Beach, San Diego, and San Francisco in California; Seattle; and Vancouver. These cruises run from fall to spring, with some lines offering only a few departures and others providing months of sailings.

The itineraries typically follow a similar structure: a four-day crossing of the Pacific Ocean, stops at three or four Hawaiian ports (sometimes with an overnight stay), another five days at sea, and a visit to Ensenada, Mexico, on the return leg. If you're departing from Vancouver, expect a five-day crossing without the stop in Mexico.

Occasionally, you’ll find longer grand voyages that sail round-trip from North America to Hawaii, along with other South Pacific destinations. For example, Holland America offers epic 24- to 51-night cruises departing from San Diego.

These extended Hawaii cruises are ideal for retirees who have the time to enjoy leisurely ocean crossings at both the start and end of their trip.

Repositioning Cruises

Another type of Hawaii cruise is the one-way repositioning sailing, usually offered when ships are transitioning to or from Alaska. These cruises are scheduled to stop in Hawaii en route to the South Pacific or Australia, or sometimes before the ship embarks on Mexico-bound voyages from Southern California or heads through the Panama Canal toward the Atlantic.

Shorter options, like the 8- to 13-night cruises from Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, sail between Vancouver and Honolulu, allowing you to book a one-way flight to or from Hawaii. Upscale brands like Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, and Silversea offer longer one-way sailings, typically crossing the Pacific between Tahiti (or another distant island) and Vancouver or Seattle.

The shorter one-way cruises are perfect for travelers who don’t want to commit to a full two-week journey or can’t spend 10 days at sea, but still want a relaxing ship experience. These options also make it easier to enjoy pre- or post-cruise stays in Hawaii. On the other hand, the longer repositioning voyages are ideal for those looking to explore a larger portion of the Pacific, with Hawaii being just one stop along the way.

Best Hawaii Cruise Lines

It’s no surprise that I consider Norwegian Cruise Line one of the best Hawaii cruise options, as it offers a unique experience with a vacation length that suits most people, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the island’s highlights.

Princess Cruises is an excellent option for two-week round-trip Hawaii cruises, with several departure ports and sailing dates to choose from. Carnival, Holland America, and Viking also offer similar itineraries, with Holland America being an ideal choice for longer voyages that venture deep into the South Pacific, starting and ending in North America.

Sister cruise lines Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean are great for those seeking hybrid one-way cruises from the West Coast to Hawaii.

For travelers seeking a more luxurious experience, Seabourn, Silversea, and Oceania offer upscale accommodations, fine dining, and multiple fare inclusions for a stylish journey across the Pacific, with stops in Hawaii. Seabourn and Silversea feature smaller ships, more fare inclusions, and higher prices compared to Oceania.

UnCruise Adventures is perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences on a small ship with a flexible itinerary. These cruises are ideal for active adventurers who want to connect with nature up close. While you don’t have to be a seasoned cruiser to enjoy UnCruise, be prepared for a larger budget, as these intimate journeys come with a premium price tag.

Things to Do in Hawaii

Whether you’re seeking total relaxation or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Hawaii offers endless activities for families, couples, and friends of all ages.

Naturally, Hawaii’s beaches are a top draw. From pristine white-sand beaches to the more rugged volcanic black-sand shores, there’s something for everyone. Families can enjoy beach parks with calm swimming areas, while those looking for peace and quiet can find secluded spots far from the crowds. Keep in mind that some beaches may have strong currents or rough waves at certain times of the year, so always exercise caution while swimming.

Water activities are a major highlight, from riding Hawaii's iconic waves to snorkeling with green sea turtles in Maui. You can kayak along Kauai's Wailua River or head out to sea, try kite-surfing, or give stand-up paddleboarding a shot. If you prefer a more laid-back day on the water, consider taking a whale-watching cruise, a sunset sail, or a scenic boat ride along Kauai's Napali Coast.

Nature enthusiasts will find a wide variety of hikes through lush rainforests or along the dramatic landscapes of Waimea Canyon. Maui's famous Road to Hana is a must-do for those who enjoy winding roads and stunning waterfalls. You can also experience breathtaking sunrises or sunsets, bike down the dormant Haleakala volcano, or visit an active volcano at Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

Many visitors enjoy immersing themselves in Hawaiian culture and history. You can attend a luau to indulge in local cuisine and enjoy traditional music, dance, and fire performances. Some luaus take place on working plantations, where you can learn about Hawaiian agriculture. Alternatively, visit historical sites like Honolulu's Iolani Palace or the Big Island's Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (known as the "City of Refuge") to dive into the ancient Polynesian culture and the history of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Best Hawaii Cruise Ports

Hawaii's cruise ports are limited, with only a few locations accessible for ships to dock. However, UnCruise Adventures stands out by visiting some of the smaller, less-accessible ports that larger ships can't reach. While all of the ports are top-tier, the best one for you depends on the activities you enjoy, as some are better suited for specific experiences.

Here are the primary cruise ports in Hawaii that you'll encounter on most itineraries.

Honolulu, Oahu

Honolulu is famous for Pearl Harbor, where you can tour the USS Arizona Memorial Museum, the Battleship Missouri Memorial, the submarine museum, and the aviation museum. For beach lovers, Waikiki Beach offers plenty of sun and sand, or you can hike to the top of Diamond Head Crater for stunning views.

Discover Hawaii's history at Mauna Ala, the Royal Mausoleum, and the Iolani Palace, or immerse yourself in the local culture at a luau or the Polynesian Cultural Center. If you're feeling adventurous, head to Oahu’s North Shore for a scenic tour. Since Oahu is the homeport for the Pride of America, it’s worth considering a pre- or post-cruise stay to explore all the island has to offer.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Kauai, though small, is a prime destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in Hawaii, from the striking cliffs of the Napali Coast to the dramatic vistas of Waimea Canyon. Whether you're into hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing on one of its many beaches, Kauai offers a bit of everything for outdoor enthusiasts.

Cruise visitors can take a riverboat ride along the scenic Wailua River to the Fern Grotto or jump on a tour bus to explore iconic movie filming locations. If you're in port late enough, Kauai also hosts some wonderful luaus for a memorable cultural experience.

Hilo, Hawaii

The Big Island stands out by offering two major cruise ports: Hilo on the east coast and Kona on the west. Hilo serves as the gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where you can explore lava tubes, watch steam rise from the active volcano, and witness the raw power of nature at work.

The Hilo area is a treasure trove of natural beauty, featuring waterfalls like Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls, along with unique black-sand beaches. For some aquatic adventure, try kayaking or snorkeling in Hilo Bay, or head to the Volcano Winery for a taste of locally crafted wines made from both grapes and tropical fruits.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona, located on the western side of the Big Island, is a must-visit port for coffee enthusiasts. Here, you can tour a coffee plantation and savor some of the best locally grown Hawaiian coffee. History buffs will enjoy exploring the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a historic site once serving as a sanctuary. Kona also offers plenty of opportunities to relax on beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and even take boat or submarine tours.

Kahului, Maui

Maui has two cruise ports, both offering access to the same top attractions. Currently, the Lahaina tender port is temporarily closed as the area works to recover from the tragic 2023 fires. However, Kahului remains an active and convenient point of access for exploring Maui's stunning sights.

Kahului, Maui is situated in an industrial zone close to the airport. Although cruise ships can dock here, you'll need to arrange for a tour or use other means of transportation to explore the island's attractions.

Maui is a paradise for nature lovers, offering breathtaking sights such as the dormant Haleakala volcano (perfect for sunrise, sunset, or thrilling bike rides down its slopes), the winding Road to Hana with its stunning waterfall vistas, and miles of pristine white-sand beaches. It's also one of the top ports for whale watching during the season and offers exceptional snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. If you'd prefer to stay dry, visit the Maui Ocean Center to explore the region's rich marine life.

When to book a Hawaii cruise

Booking your Hawaii cruise as early as possible is highly recommended. Cruise lines typically offer fewer Hawaii sailings compared to more popular destinations like the Caribbean or Bahamas, making early reservations essential for securing your spot.

Norwegian Cruise Line operates just one ship in the region, and most other cruise lines offer Hawaii sailings only during certain seasons. Booking early not only secures your preferred cabin and sailing date, but may also help you score the best prices and special promotional perks (like complimentary extras). Additionally, unless you're based on the West Coast, a Hawaii cruise typically requires a long flight to California or Honolulu, so it's wise to book early to find a good airfare deal or secure an award seat.

What to bring on a Hawaii cruise

What to pack for a Hawaii cruise largely depends on your itinerary. For a casual weeklong sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line, you can skip the formal wear and focus on laid-back clothing suitable for beach activities or outdoor adventures. Essentials include sun hats, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and comfortable, water-friendly shoes. Don’t forget your camera (or a waterproof phone case) and binoculars for whale-watching opportunities.

If you're embarking on a longer voyage with a cruise line like Princess, be sure to pack some nicer clothes for onboard dinners and formal nights, as well as entertainment for those long sea days. Think books, an e-reader, a portable board game, or a journal. Passengers on UnCruise Adventures should pack sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking activewear, plenty of swimsuits, and waterproof bags to safeguard their gear from the elements.

Final thoughts

A cruise is an excellent way to explore several Hawaiian islands in a single trip while saving money on meals and transportation like car rentals.

That said, compared to other cruise regions, your options for Hawaiian itineraries and travel dates are somewhat limited. Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America offers an excellent way to experience the islands in just one week. However, if you prefer a slower pace with more days at sea, consider round-trip cruises departing from California or other West Coast ports.

Once you've chosen your preferred style of Hawaii cruise, it’s time to shop around for the best fares so you can catch the perfect deal and get ready to say "Aloha!" to an unforgettable vacation.