DESTINATION

Hawaii

Volcanic peaks rising from the Pacific, emerald valleys carved by ancient rivers, and shores painted in gold, red, and black — Hawaii delivers a cruise experience that feels worlds away while staying right here in the U.S.

Embrace the Spirit of Aloha by Sea

There is no destination quite like Hawaii. Towering volcanic landscapes give way to pristine coastlines, while ancient Polynesian traditions weave through every corner of island life. A Hawaii cruise lets you hop between dramatically different islands — each with its own personality — without the hassle of rebooking flights or switching hotels. Comfortable year-round temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F, plus the ease of traveling to a U.S. state with no passport required on most itineraries, make this one of the most appealing cruise destinations we recommend to our clients.

A picturesque historic street in Skagway, Alaska, featuring preserved gold rush-era buildings with snow-capped mountain peaks in the background. A small stream runs through the foreground, lined with purple lupine flowers.
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A picturesque Alaskan coastal scene featuring a traditional Orthodox church, totem pole, marina, and the Alaska Raptor Center wooden building in the foreground. Misty mountains and forested landscape provide a dramatic backdrop.
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A modern, spacious cruise ship suite with a large angled window offering an expansive ocean view. The room features a plush gray sectional sofa, minimalist furniture, and a wall-mounted flat-screen television.
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A picturesque harbor view of Ketchikan, Alaska, featuring colorful waterfront buildings, fishing boats, and mountains at golden hour, showcasing the town's maritime character.
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Extraordinary Volcanic Terrain

Witness active volcanoes, walk across hardened lava fields, and gaze up at towering sea cliffs that reveal millions of years of geological history.

Beaches in Every Color

Hawaii’s coastline features golden, white, red, green, and jet-black sand beaches — each offering world-class snorkeling, surfing, and pure relaxation.

Living Polynesian Heritage

Attend an authentic luau, learn the graceful art of hula, craft a fresh flower lei, and connect with traditions that have thrived across the Pacific for centuries.

Discover the Hawaiian Islands

Every island in Hawaii has a character all its own — from bustling Honolulu to the untamed wilderness of the Big Island. Our expert advisors have sailed these itineraries and will guide you toward the voyage that fits your travel style perfectly.

White chalk cliffs in Sarakiniko, Milos island, Cyclades, Greece
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Oahu

Key Highlights: Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, North Shore surfing, Polynesian Cultural Center

Known For: A vibrant mix of urban energy and tropical beauty, legendary surf breaks, and iconic landmarks

Ideal For: First-time Hawaii visitors, history enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a blend of culture and coastline

Port: Honolulu

A picturesque view of a colorful Alaskan fishing harbor with vibrant boats docked along wooden piers, backed by snow-capped mountains and a distant glacier at sunset.
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Maui

Key Highlights: Road to Hana, Haleakalā sunrise, Molokini snorkeling, whale watching (seasonal), Lahaina historic district

Known For: Spectacular sunrises above the clouds, crystal-clear snorkeling, and a laid-back romantic atmosphere

Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, and nature lovers drawn to adventure with a touch of romance

Port: Kahului

A large MSC cruise ship docked at the pristine Ocean Cay marine reserve in the Bahamas, with a white lighthouse and turquoise waters surrounding a white sandy beach.
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Big Island (Hawaii)

Key Highlights: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea stargazing, black sand beaches, Kona coffee plantations, manta ray night dives

Known For: Active volcanoes, an astonishing range of climate zones from tropical shores to alpine summits, and raw natural power

Ideal For: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts craving a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience

Ports: Hilo & Kona

Hawaiian Islands at a Glance

Feature Oahu Maui Big Island
Cruise Port Honolulu Kahului Hilo & Kona
Best For First-time visitors, history buffs, beach lovers Couples, honeymooners, snorkeling enthusiasts Adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, stargazers
Signature Experiences Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Waikiki, North Shore Road to Hana, Haleakalā sunrise, Molokini, whale watching Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea summit, black sand beaches
Island Vibe Cosmopolitan energy meets tropical paradise Laid-back romance with jaw-dropping scenery Untamed wilderness and awe-inspiring natural forces
A large group of emperor penguins gathered on a snowy landscape with a massive white ice shelf in the background under a cloudy gray sky. The penguins are densely clustered across the frozen terrain, showcasing the harsh Antarctic environment.
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Let our team chart the course for your dream Hawaiian voyage.

One of the things we love most about Hawaii cruises is that they let you experience multiple islands on a single trip — no repacking, no rebooking flights, no wasted vacation time. Most itineraries visit Oahu (Honolulu), Maui (Kahului), the Big Island (Hilo and Kona), and Kauai (Nawiliwili), often with overnight stays so you can take in a sunset luau or catch a sunrise from a volcano summit.

Many sailings also include scenic cruising past Kauai’s dramatic Na Pali Coast, a stretch of emerald cliffs and cascading waterfalls that you really have to see from the water to appreciate. If you prefer more time at sea, one-way voyages departing from West Coast ports like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Vancouver add relaxing ocean days to the beginning or end of your journey.

With our team of 23+ expert advisors — many of whom have sailed these routes personally — we’ll match you with the right ship, the right cabin, and the right itinerary. And because we check prices weekly on every booking, you can rest easy knowing you’ll always have the best possible rate. Talk to a cruise expert today and let’s start planning your Hawaiian adventure.

Hidden Gems Beyond the Main Ports

The most popular ports are only part of the story. Additional islands and extended itinerary options add depth and variety to any Hawaiian cruise vacation.

  • Kauai – The “Garden Isle” featuring the jaw-dropping Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon, Hawaii’s own Grand Canyon
  • Molokai – Untouched Hawaiian beauty with rich cultural heritage and peaceful, crowd-free landscapes
  • Lanai – Secluded luxury and pristine snorkeling at Hulopoe Bay, one of the state’s finest marine preserves
  • West Coast Departures – Extended voyages from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle with tranquil sea days and stunning Pacific sunsets
A breathtaking coastal scene featuring a small boat, seals on rocky shores, and bald eagles soaring against a vibrant sunset in a lush Alaskan landscape with snow-capped mountains.
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Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

When to Set Sail for Hawaii

Hawaii welcomes cruise ships throughout the year, and each season brings its own rewards. Here’s what our advisors recommend based on real cruise experience.

Winter (December – March): This is peak season, and for good reason. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters between January and March, creating unforgettable moments right from your stateroom balcony. Daytime temperatures hover in the comfortable mid-70s to low 80s°F. Demand is high, so we suggest booking early to lock in your preferred cabin.

Spring & Fall (April – May, September – November): These shoulder months deliver excellent weather, lighter crowds at ports, and outstanding value. It’s an ideal window for snorkeling, hiking, and exploring without the peak-season bustle.

Summer (June – August): Warm, dry conditions on the western shores of each island make summer a top pick for family vacations. Trade winds keep things pleasant, and school’s out — perfect timing for multi-generational trips.

No matter when you choose to sail, our weekly price monitoring means we’re watching your booking for rate drops after you reserve — and we’ll adjust your fare automatically at no extra charge.

A sleek and modern retail space within a cruise ship, featuring merchandise displays with blue and white branding, branded clothing, and souvenirs in glass cabinets with mood lighting.
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Why Book with Cruise Help

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Your Hawaii Cruise Questions, Answered

It depends on your itinerary. If you’re sailing roundtrip from Honolulu and only stopping at Hawaiian ports, a government-issued photo ID is all you need — Hawaii is a U.S. state, after all. However, some voyages departing from the West Coast include a brief stop at a foreign port (like Ensenada, Mexico), which does require a valid passport. When you work with our advisors, we’ll review your specific sailing and let you know exactly what documentation to have ready.

Norwegian Cruise Line operates the only year-round inter-island Hawaii sailing aboard the Pride of America, departing roundtrip from Honolulu every week. Beyond that, Holland America, Princess, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Silversea run seasonal voyages — typically departing from West Coast homeports. Our team of 23+ advisors stays current on every available sailing and will match you to the cruise line that fits your style and budget.

Roundtrip inter-island sailings from Honolulu generally run 7 nights, visiting four islands and often including overnight stays in Maui and Kauai. Voyages originating from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, or Vancouver typically range from 15 to 18 nights, with several relaxing sea days before and after your time in the islands. There are also repositioning cruises that can run even longer. Your advisor will help you find the length that works for your schedule and vacation goals.

Hawaii stays pleasant year-round with temperatures between 75–85°F. Winter (December–March) is peak season and prime time for humpback whale sightings. Summer (June–August) is fantastic for families with consistently dry weather. Spring and fall shoulder seasons offer great value with lighter crowds. Because we monitor your booking’s price weekly, you’ll always have the best available rate regardless of when you sail.

The list of possibilities is exciting: visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial on Oahu, driving the legendary Road to Hana in Maui, exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, taking a helicopter tour over Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, snorkeling the crystal waters of Molokini Crater, attending a traditional luau, hiking to hidden waterfalls, touring Kona coffee plantations, and even stargazing from the summit of Mauna Kea. Our advisors will recommend the excursions that match your interests and each port’s schedule.

An inter-island cruise — like Norwegian’s Pride of America — sails roundtrip from Honolulu and visits multiple islands over 7 nights with very little open sea time, so you maximize every moment on land. West Coast departures from ports such as Los Angeles or San Francisco add several peaceful ocean days on either end, stretching your trip to 15–18 nights. The right choice comes down to how much time you have and whether you enjoy the relaxation of days at sea. Our advisors are happy to walk you through the options.

They’re one of our most popular recommendations for family travel. The islands offer activities for every age — beach days, snorkeling, educational visits to Pearl Harbor, volcano hikes, and cultural experiences like luaus. Most cruise lines provide supervised kids’ clubs and teen programs onboard. And because Hawaii is a U.S. destination, there are no currency exchanges or language barriers to navigate, making logistics easier for everyone. We love helping families and multi-generational groups plan the perfect Hawaii voyage — reach out and we’ll design an itinerary that keeps every generation happy.

Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sturdy walking shoes for shore excursions. Don’t forget layers for cooler evenings and higher-elevation adventures — temperatures at the summit of Mauna Kea or Haleakalā can drop dramatically. A compact rain jacket is handy for windward-side visits. If your ship has formal dining nights, pack dressy attire as well. When you book with us, your advisor will send you a packing checklist tailored to your specific itinerary and time of year.

Absolutely — and we encourage it. Adding a couple of extra nights in Waikiki, Maui, or along the Kona Coast gives you time to explore at a slower pace before or after your sailing. Our advisors can arrange hotel accommodations, airport transfers, and activities to complement your cruise. There are never any extra fees for this service — it’s all part of the personal care we provide to every client.

We suggest booking 9 to 12 months in advance, especially for peak winter sailings (December–March) and summer family departures. Norwegian’s Pride of America is the sole year-round inter-island option, so preferred cabin categories can fill up quickly. The upside of booking early with Cruise Help? Our weekly price monitoring kicks in immediately — if the fare drops after you book, we’ll adjust it automatically so you always hold the best rate available, at no charge to you.