Top 8 Hawaii Cruises for 2025 and 2026

A cruise through the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers a perfect South Pacific getaway, with the comfort of familiar amenities. Hawaii is, in many ways, an ideal destination for cruising, thanks to its year-round sunshine, four main islands boasting diverse landscapes — from sandy beaches and volcanic peaks to lush valleys and waterfalls — as well as a wide range of land and water activities.

However, there’s a catch: Hawaii cruise options are limited compared to the Caribbean, and most itineraries require multi-day crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line operates year-round Hawaii routes; the rest are seasonal, with many sailings taking place during the spring and fall as ships reposition.

Looking for the perfect Hawaiian cruise? Here’s a guide to the eight best Hawaii cruise options for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-Island Hawaii Cruise

For those seeking more time in Hawaii than the usual eight-hour stopover, Norwegian Cruise Line has the answer. The 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets travelers explore four Hawaiian islands over the course of seven days, with overnight stays in both Maui and Kauai, plus visits to Hilo and Kona on the Big Island. In total, passengers get nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America departs from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As the only U.S.-flagged ship that operates on these routes, it avoids the lengthy Pacific crossings typical of other cruise ships. U.S. citizens also benefit as no passport is required, and you can extend your stay with pre- or post-cruise visits to Oahu.

The extended stays in Maui and Kauai allow guests to experience Hawaii’s most iconic attractions. Watch the sunrise or sunset from the summit of Maui’s 10,023-foot dormant volcano with guided excursions to Haleakala Crater. And in Kauai, enjoy an evening of Hawaiian culture with a Luau Kalamaku, featuring traditional music, hula, and delicious cuisine, all while the ship stays docked overnight.

Since 2005, Pride of America has been cruising around Hawaii. While it lacks some of the flashy features found on Norwegian's newer ships — like race tracks, virtual reality games, and waterslides — it more than makes up for it with the islands themselves, which remain the main attraction. The ship’s American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a colorful, sometimes playful way, and a 2021 update ensured its cabins and public areas feel modern and refreshed.

On board, you’ll find a variety of Norwegian's specialty dining options (which carry an additional fee), including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (known here as Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria, and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: This cruise is perfect for those looking for a hassle-free way to explore multiple Hawaiian islands, with plenty of shore time for independent adventures and guided excursions. While the majority of passengers are couples in their 50s and above, summer and holiday sailings also welcome many families.

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

For a more laid-back, unique Hawaiian experience, cruisers can board UnCruise Adventures' 36-passenger Safari Explorer from November to April. This seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes journey, which departs from either Molokai or Hawaii Island, offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure in a more intimate and authentic environment. No U.S. passport is required for the trip.

UnCruise explores four islands — Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Hawaii — offering guests the chance to experience not just their breathtaking landscapes and marine wonders, but also the local Hawaiian culture, including its music, food, and traditions. On Molokai, where life moves slowly without a single traffic light, passengers can 'talk story' with the locals and enjoy a traditional feast and live music. On Lanai, activities include snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and ATV excursions across dramatic cliffs, red rock landscapes, and expansive fields once used for Dole's pineapple cultivation.

Maui's humpback whale season typically runs from mid-January to March, and during that time, you may spot these majestic creatures while cruising along the coast. You could also encounter dolphins and sea turtles. The 'Captain's Choice' day is a wildcard experience, where the itinerary is shaped by weather conditions, marine life, and other factors. The final two days of the cruise focus on the Big Island, offering a hike up the Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along its rugged coastline, among other exciting activities.

Built in 1998, the Safari Explorer was designed for adventurous itineraries like this one (in summer, the U.S.-flagged ship shifts to Alaska). Its small size allows it to reach remote areas larger vessels cannot, including secluded bays and coves perfect for snorkeling or water sports.

With only a handful of guests on board, passengers quickly bond with each other and the Safari Explorer crew. Meals feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and with all UnCruise fares including unlimited wine, spirits, and craft beer, passengers can relax and enjoy the company of fellow travelers without worrying about buying rounds. This creates an exclusive yet completely relaxed cruising experience.

Who should consider this trip: The Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary is perfect for active travelers seeking a nature-filled adventure, combining laid-back onboard vibes with plenty of land and water activities. However, it's worth noting that cruise fares, starting at around $5,900 per person, make it one of the more expensive Hawaii cruise options.

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

For travelers with over two weeks to spare and a preference for arriving in Hawaii by ship instead of flying, Holland America offers the 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. This voyage is available in 2025 and 2026 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 2,106-passenger Nieuw Amsterdam.

Cruisers booking these sailings must be fond of sea days, as the Pacific crossing from San Diego to Honolulu takes a solid 10 days. In Hawaii, passengers enjoy five to six days exploring Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, with some sailings offering overnight stays in select ports. Both ships also make a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

For those with more time to spare, Holland America offers extended Pacific island cruises. In 2025, the Koningsdam will embark on a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary, which includes stops at four Hawaiian Islands, five islands in French Polynesia, and Fanning Island, Kiribati, along with 20 days at sea. Nieuw Amsterdam will offer the same voyage in 2026.

For an even more immersive journey, Zaandam offers 51- and 56-night Tales of the South Pacific cruises. These itineraries include multiple stops in Hawaii and French Polynesia, as well as visits to the Cook Islands, American Samoa, and Fiji.

Holland America attracts a mature crowd, particularly cruisers aged 60 and above, many of whom are retired and have the time to savor longer journeys. These guests appreciate the value offered by the cruise, particularly its emphasis on fine dining and live musical performances. Popular venues aboard Koningsdam include B.B. King's Blues Club (Memphis-style blues), Billboard Onboard (live piano renditions of popular hits), Rolling Stone Rock Room (classic rock with a live band), and the World Stage, a 270-degree theater used for immersive BBC Earth concerts and theatrical shows.

Onboard specialty dining options (available for an additional fee) feature Pinnacle Grill for premium steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Asian-inspired dishes, and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French brasserie-style dishes and fresh seafood.

Who should consider this trip: This cruise is perfect for mature travelers who prefer to avoid flying and enjoy a more traditional cruising experience. Those who love sea days as much as (or even more than) exploring ports will find this itinerary especially appealing.

Princess Cruises offers a 16-night Hawaiian Islands voyage that provides an extended exploration of the Pacific paradise.

For those looking for longer voyages, Princess Cruises is a great choice. The line offers various round-trip sailings to Hawaii, departing from Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Vancouver, British Columbia, during the fall and winter months.

These cruises are offered aboard several ships, including the 3,080-passenger Ruby Princess (departing from San Francisco), 2,600-passenger Grand Princess, 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess (from Los Angeles), and the 1,970-passenger Coral Princess (from Vancouver).

When visiting Hawaii, the ships typically stay in port for nine to eleven hours at Hawaii Island (Hilo), Kauai, and Maui, with a longer 16-hour stop on Oahu. The itineraries also include a visit to Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required, and passengers will spend nine or ten days at sea.

The ships offer a variety of popular Princess dining options, such as Alfredo's Pizzeria (a cozy spot for personal-sized pizzas), Crown Grill for succulent steaks, and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's also ample outdoor space to enjoy the sun, including an adults-only sun deck, and a vibrant Piazza where guests can savor cocktails, gelato, and watch spontaneous street performances.

Guests who love Princess' Movies Under the Stars (complete with complimentary popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment activities will have plenty of opportunities to indulge in these experiences while cruising to Hawaii.

Who should go: These cruises are ideal for couples or groups of friends who value a wide range of sailing dates, prefer a relaxed Pacific crossing, and enjoy Princess' emphasis on excellent cuisine and a sun deck designed for ultimate relaxation over excitement.

Celebrity offers a 9- to 13-night Hawaii cruise, providing a variety of itineraries for travelers looking to explore the islands.

For travelers who appreciate modern interior design and a couple-friendly atmosphere, Celebrity Cruises offers voyages to Hawaii aboard the 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or the 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge. These sailings range from 9 to 13 nights, but availability is limited to just two sailings per ship each year during the spring and fall, as these ships reposition between Alaska and the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way, either from Vancouver to Honolulu or the reverse, and require passports.

These cruises visit three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu), Hilo, and Kona (Hawaii Island), with one or two overnight stays in port and up to 10 hours ashore on day visits. Every itinerary includes five consecutive days at sea. Since each voyage begins or ends in Honolulu, there's also an opportunity for additional exploration before or after the cruise.

Sea days offer a chance to enjoy the ships' sophisticated, adult-oriented atmosphere and premium amenities. Both Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Edge feature a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants at an extra charge. Solstice boasts Tuscan Grille for Italian favorites and steaks, and Murano for modern French cuisine. Edge offers the international Eden Restaurant and Fine Cut Steakhouse, among other choices.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and several other sophisticated lounges maintain the adult ambiance throughout the cruise. Guests can choose fares that include both alcohol and Wi-Fi, or opt for a lower price and pay for drinks as they go.

Who should go: With its shorter one-way itineraries and modern ambiance, these cruises are perfect for couples and groups of friends looking for a laid-back escape, particularly those in their 40s and 50s from Generation X, who align with Celebrity's target audience.

Carnival offers 14- or 15-night cruises to Hawaii from Los Angeles aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance, making it the perfect getaway for fun-loving travelers. These round-trip itineraries depart from Long Beach, California, and include four days exploring Hawaii, with up to 14 hours ashore on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu, and Hawaii Island. Along with eight exciting sea days, the cruise also includes a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, requiring passports for boarding.

If you're all about having a good time, Carnival Cruise Line's "Fun Ship" vibe delivers with several round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. These sailings include four full days in Hawaii, allowing for 8 to 14 hours of shore time at ports on Maui, Kauai, Oahu, and Hawaii Island. The journey also offers eight relaxing days at sea, with a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, so don't forget your passport.

Carnival Radiance, which debuted under its current name in 2021 after a major overhaul, was formerly known as Carnival Victory. The ship boasts a range of signature dining options, both included and at an extra charge, like Guy's Burger Joint, Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Onboard, guests can enjoy favorite spots like the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar, and the WaterWorks aqua park. Expect high-energy theater performances by Playlist Productions at night, and interactive poolside games during the day for a non-stop good time.

Who should go: This itinerary is perfect for sociable cruisers who enjoy Carnival's focus on fun-filled onboard experiences. If you love a vibrant ship with a lively atmosphere and an abundance of day and evening activities, you'll have a blast on this cruise.

Royal Caribbean's 8-night Hawaii Cruise

For those seeking a megaship experience, Royal Caribbean's 4,905-passenger Quantum of the Seas offers a Hawaii cruise like no other.

This is a one-way sailing from Oahu to Vancouver, timed just before the Alaska cruise season begins (late April). The itinerary includes a stop in Kona and a scenic journey along the stunning Napali Coast, followed by a Pacific crossing. Since the voyage ends in Vancouver, remember to bring your passport.

Quantum of the Seas offers a thrilling variety of activities for everyone. Enjoy the simulated skydiving experience with RipCord by iFly, ride the FlowRider for simulated surfing, race bumper cars in the SeaPlex, or take in 360-degree views from the North Star sightseeing capsule, which elevates 300 feet above the deck.

With 20 dining options onboard, guests can indulge in innovative experiences like Wonderland, enjoy Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver, or treat kids to the fun-filled Dog House. For drinks, relax at Schooner Bar with live piano music, sip mojitos at Boleros, or visit the Bionic Bar, where robotic bartenders serve your drinks. Entertainment options include live bands at the Music Hall and immersive multimedia performances in Two70.

Who should go: This cruise is perfect for those who enjoy large ships offering a vast selection of dining, entertainment, and activities to keep busy on sea days. Starting at just $826 per person (based on double occupancy for an inside cabin), this affordable itinerary allows you to enjoy Hawaii, though you'll want to extend your stay with a few extra nights at a hotel to explore more.

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For those seeking a peaceful, adults-only cruise experience in an intimate, boutique-style setting, Viking offers an exclusive round-trip Hawaii itinerary from Los Angeles aboard the 930-passenger Viking Neptune in early 2025.

What makes Viking unique compared to most other cruise lines offering Hawaii voyages is its inclusion of a complimentary shore excursion at every port. Highlights include a tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu, as well as a visit to a picturesque waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked for an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn journey takes guests to four beautiful islands — Hawaii Island (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai, and Maui. Like other West Coast round-trip cruises, it offers 10 days at sea and includes a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, requiring passports for all passengers.

Viking Neptune will also embark on a 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia voyage from Los Angeles in early 2025. This journey will visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia, offering a luxurious and immersive experience.

Debuting in 2022, Viking Neptune boasts elegant Scandinavian-inspired design, a serene spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge, and five exquisite onboard restaurants. Specialty dining includes Manfredi's for Italian specialties and The Chef's Table, which serves a rotating five-course menu with themes such as Asian, French, and California-inspired dishes.

Along with the complimentary shore excursions, the price covers wines or beers with lunch and dinner, no-cost specialty dining, crew gratuities, and transfers.

Ideal for couples who enjoy a serene cruise atmosphere, this itinerary caters to those who prefer an adults-only ship, free from casinos, and offering enriching presentations by regional experts to deepen their cultural experience. Viking cruises typically attract travelers over the age of 55.