Island-Hop on This Small-Ship Cruise in Hawai‘i

Experience Hawai‘i as ancient Polynesian voyagers once did—by sea—but with all the modern luxuries of small-ship journeys offered by UnCruise Adventures. On the Hawaiian Seascapes cruise, the 36-passenger SDinogoi Explorer ventures into secluded areas inaccessible to larger vessels, acting as a floating base camp for travelers who enjoy exquisite dining and stylish travel.

Guests can indulge in a delightful pupu platter of activities, ranging from dining with locals and snorkeling alongside mantas to hiking in restricted areas and marveling at the star-filled night skies. These unique experiences are why USA Today recognized this cruise line for offering the 2024’s Best Hawaii Cruise.

Kayak, snorkel with manta rays, and watch whales in a national marine sanctuary

Hawai‘i boasts 1,050 miles of coastline, yet many tourists never venture beyond their resort’s beach. UnCruise Adventures invites its guests to explore more by kayaking over the vibrant fish populations near Lāna‘i and snorkeling in Maui’s sea turtle hotspots. Alternatively, enjoy both activities at Kealakekua Bay, where a historic state park honors the sacred harbor of Lono, the Hawaiian god of fertility, music, and peace. This site was also the location of the first significant contact between islanders and Westerners in 1779, marked by a white obelisk that stands over the grave of British explorer Captain James Cook, the leader of the expedition.

Fifty miles up the coast of the Big Island, you can experience the thrill of nighttime snorkeling with manta rays, gentle giants with wingspans that can reach 26 feet. Protected by the world’s largest active volcano, Mauna Loa, this area features calm, clear waters that are perfect for observing these majestic creatures glide and twirl beneath the surface.

Naturalists accompany guests as they look for dolphins and other marine mammals while cruising through the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. This sanctuary is home to about 21,000 humpback whales that come to mate, give birth, and raise their young from November to April. Depending on the weather and tides, guests may also glide past the world’s tallest sea cliffs, a national natural landmark located on the North Shore of Moloka‘i.

Bike around Lāna‘i, hike up a volcano on the Big Island, and discover ancient Native Hawaiian temples

While the ocean presents a stunning postcard view, UnCruise Adventures also features onshore adventures throughout this island paradise. Expert guides offer personal tours of the Big Island’s Hualālai volcano, where visitors can explore craters, lava tubes, ancient petroglyphs, and native dryland forests. Guests can also stroll or cycle around Lāna‘i, once a thriving pineapple plantation, now predominantly owned by Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle. For an adorable experience, don’t miss the open-air cat sanctuary on the island.

Typical itineraries feature a hike through the cathedral valley of Hālawa on Moloka‘i, settled by ancient Polynesians around 650 B.C.E. Discover hidden heiau (temples) and the breathtaking double-tiered Moa‘ula Falls, which can only be accessed with a guide. At night, step outside for some peaceful and remarkable stargazing.

Immerse yourself in Hawai‘i’s aloha spirit by learning from locals and sharing meals together

UnCruise Adventures fosters strong connections with island communities, offering unique experiences for its guests. Engage with a kūpuna (respected elder) and enjoy a “talk story” session—the Hawaiian tradition of casual conversation—with local residents. Dive into cultural teachings that cover everything from growing taro to processing the edible roots into poi, a starchy food beloved across the Pacific Islands. Guests can savor this delicacy and other local dishes at a farewell pa‘ina (feast) organized by local aunties and uncles, culminating in a lively music jam.

Discover the Hawaiian Islands in solitude, away from the crowds

With UnCruise Adventures’ island-hopping itinerary, you’ll awaken in breathtaking, secluded locations that most tourists never see. Say goodbye to long lines and bustling crowds—the cruise line steers clear of popular spots, offering more unique experiences. Guests can choose from various custom excursions or simply relax onboard and soak up the ambiance.

The all-inclusive rates cover accommodations, activities, equipment, meals, drinks, and luggage handling—virtually everything except tips for the crew at the end of the trip. Pack lightly, knowing you'll be provided with all the essentials, from rubber boots and snorkeling gear to hiking poles and yoga mats, as well as a library of DVDs and books.

Notable features of the SDinogoi Explorer include a swim platform, skiffs, kayaks, paddleboards, an open bridge, and a rooftop sun deck. While the ship is affectionately nicknamed “the Bulldog” for its robust design, its interior boasts inviting communal spaces such as the salon, wine bar, and dining area.

Look forward to fresh, artisanal dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients like macadamia nut pancakes, mahi mahi served with a guava-passion fruit sauce, and cheesecake tarts enhanced with red bean mochi and caramelized pineapple. Guests can also indulge in local favorites such as Spam and eggs and loco moco (a dish of rice topped with hamburger and a fried egg, all drenched in gravy).

You’ll experience the ocean's offerings in an eco-friendly way as you sail with the first cruise partner of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program. The kitchen also skillfully accommodates vegetarian and other dietary restrictions with prior notice. Additionally, all guests can enjoy unlimited complimentary drinks, ranging from juices and sodas to craft beers and house-infused cocktails.

Thoughtful initiatives—including support for the Maui Strong Fund—demonstrate how Uncruise Adventures truly embodies the aloha spirit, enabling guests to engage with Hawai‘i in a manner that reflects all the pono (righteousness) and mālama (care) it rightfully deserves.