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Hawaii

From the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the Big Island to the golden beaches of Maui and the lush valleys of Kauai, discover why Hawaii remains one of the most breathtaking and sought-after cruise destinations in the world.

Set Sail on a Hawaii Cruise

Hawaii is a place where the spirit of aloha touches everything—from the warm ocean breezes to the welcoming smiles of the local people. With its stunning volcanic peaks, cascading waterfalls, world-famous beaches, and a rich Polynesian heritage that infuses every experience, a Hawaii cruise is truly unlike any other. Year-round tropical temperatures between 75-85°F and the ability to visit multiple islands without ever repacking your bags make cruising the ideal way to explore the Aloha State.

White chalk cliffs in Sarakiniko, Milos island, Cyclades, Greece
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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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Volcanic Landscapes

From active volcanoes on the Big Island to the lush craters of Maui, Hawaii’s dramatic terrain is unlike anywhere else on Earth.

World-Class Beaches

Golden, black, red, and even green sand beaches offer unique shoreline experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Rich Polynesian Culture

Traditional luaus, hula dancing, ukulele music, and a deep spiritual connection to the land create a cultural experience like no other.

Explore the Hawaiian Islands

Each Hawaiian island has its own distinct personality and appeal. Our expert cruise advisors have sailed these waters and will help you choose the perfect itinerary to match your dream vacation.

A group of five performers in traditional Polynesian attire sit by a river, preparing and engaging in a cultural ritual involving a large wooden bowl.
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Oahu

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

Known For: The perfect blend of city energy and island relaxation, world-class dining, and iconic landmarks

Ideal For: First-time Hawaii visitors seeking culture, history, and vibrant nightlife

Port: Honolulu

Greenland Glaciers
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Maui

Key Highlights: Road to Hana, Haleakalā Crater sunrise, Lahaina historic town, whale watching, snorkeling at Molokini

Known For: Stunning natural beauty, romantic sunsets, and outstanding snorkeling and diving

Ideal For: Couples, honeymooners, and nature lovers seeking adventure and romance

Port: Kahului

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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Big Island (Hawaii)

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

Known For: Active volcanoes, diverse climate zones, and raw natural beauty

Ideal For: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts wanting to witness Earth’s power

Ports: Hilo & Kona

Compare Hawaiian Islands

Feature Oahu Maui Big Island (Hawaii)
Port(s) Honolulu Kahului Hilo & Kona
Best For History buffs, foodies, nightlife lovers Couples, honeymooners, snorkelers Adventure seekers, nature lovers, stargazers
Highlights Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Waikiki, North Shore Haleakalā, Road to Hana, Molokini, whale watching Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, Mauna Kea
Vibe Urban energy meets island charm Romantic and scenic Wild, diverse, and adventurous
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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Our Hawaii cruise advisors will help you plan the perfect island-hopping adventure.

A Hawaii cruise lets you experience multiple islands without the hassle of inter-island flights and hotel hopping. From the iconic shores of Waikiki on Oahu to the dramatic Haleakalā Crater on Maui, the awe-inspiring volcanoes of the Big Island, and the breathtaking Na Pali Coast of Kauai—each island offers something truly special. You can also extend your voyage to include Kauai’s lush Waimea Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” or the charming small-town feel of Nawiliwili. Some itineraries even include a stop at the tiny island of Maui’s neighbor, Lānaʻi, for a secluded beach experience. With so many incredible options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—but that’s exactly where we come in. Our team of 23+ expert cruise advisors has sailed these waters, and we’ll match you with the perfect itinerary, ship, and cabin at the best possible rate. Talk to a cruise expert today!

More Islands to Explore

Beyond the most popular ports of call, Hawaii cruise itineraries can include lesser-known gems and extended experiences that make your voyage even more unforgettable.

  • Kauai – The “Garden Isle” with the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon
  • Lānaʻi – Secluded beaches and luxury resort experiences
  • Fanning Island – Remote Pacific atoll included on some roundtrip itineraries
  • Ensenada, Mexico – A popular stop on West Coast departure Hawaii cruises
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.

Best Time to Cruise Hawaii

Hawaii enjoys warm, pleasant weather year-round, making it a fantastic cruise destination no matter when you sail. That said, each season brings its own special advantages.

Peak Season (December – March): Winter is prime whale watching season, as humpback whales migrate to Hawaii’s warm waters. This is also the busiest time for tourism, so booking early with our expert advisors ensures you get the best cabin and rate.

Spring & Early Summer (April – June): Fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and excellent rates make this an ideal time to cruise. The trade winds keep things pleasant, and you’ll enjoy shorter lines at popular attractions.

Summer (July – August): Perfect for family cruises during school breaks. Warm ocean temperatures are ideal for snorkeling and swimming, and the islands buzz with energy.

Fall (September – November): The best value season with lower fares and thinner crowds. Waters are warmest for swimming and snorkeling, and fall brings some of the most spectacular sunsets.

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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.

Hawaii Cruise FAQs

Hawaii is a year-round cruise destination with temperatures typically between 75-85°F. Winter months (December–March) are peak season and offer incredible whale watching opportunities as humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters. For the best value, consider fall sailings (September–November) when fares are lower and crowds are thinner. Spring (April–June) offers a wonderful balance of pleasant weather, manageable crowds, and great rates.

Hawaii cruises vary depending on where you depart from. Inter-island cruises that depart from and return to Honolulu typically last 7 nights and visit four islands. Cruises departing from the U.S. West Coast (Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, or Seattle) generally run 15-18 nights roundtrip, including several days at sea. One-way options are also available. Your cruise advisor can help you choose the best option for your schedule and preferences.

Norwegian Cruise Line is the only major cruise line offering year-round inter-island Hawaii cruises aboard the Pride of America, which sails roundtrip from Honolulu. Other cruise lines including Princess, Holland America, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival offer seasonal Hawaii itineraries departing from West Coast ports. Our team of 23+ expert advisors will help you find the ideal cruise line for your style, budget, and priorities—with no fees, ever.

If your cruise departs from and returns to a U.S. port and only visits Hawaiian ports, U.S. citizens do not need a passport since Hawaii is a U.S. state. However, some Hawaii itineraries include a stop at a foreign port such as Ensenada, Mexico, or Fanning Island, which would require a passport. We always recommend carrying a valid passport for flexibility in case of emergencies. Your cruise advisor will confirm the specific requirements for your chosen itinerary.

An inter-island cruise departs from Honolulu and visits multiple Hawaiian islands over 7 nights, spending most of your time in port exploring the islands. A mainland departure cruise sails from a West Coast city like Los Angeles or San Francisco, includes several relaxing sea days crossing the Pacific, and typically lasts 15-18 nights roundtrip. Inter-island cruises maximize your time on the islands, while mainland departures offer a more extended vacation experience with sea days included.

Hawaii offers an incredible variety of shore excursions. Popular options include visiting Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial on Oahu, watching the sunrise from Haleakalā Crater on Maui, exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, helicopter tours of the Na Pali Coast on Kauai, snorkeling at Molokini Crater, attending a traditional luau, touring coffee plantations on the Big Island, and whale watching during winter months. Our advisors can recommend the best excursions based on your interests.

Absolutely! Hawaii is one of the most family-friendly cruise destinations. Kids will love beach days, snorkeling with sea turtles, learning about volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and experiencing Hawaiian culture at luaus. Most cruise lines offer excellent kids’ programs onboard, and the calm waters and warm temperatures make it comfortable for travelers of all ages. Multi-generational families especially love Hawaii cruises because there’s something wonderful for every age group.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen (required by Hawaii law), a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes for shore excursions. A light rain jacket is recommended as brief tropical showers are common. Bring layers for higher-elevation excursions like Haleakalā or Mauna Kea, where temperatures can drop significantly. Don’t forget formal attire if your ship has elegant evening dress codes. Your cruise advisor can provide a tailored packing list for your specific itinerary.

Yes! Norwegian Cruise Line’s 7-night inter-island cruise visits four islands—Oahu, Maui, the Big Island (both Hilo and Kona), and Kauai—with overnight stays at some ports so you can enjoy evening activities ashore. Longer itineraries from the mainland may also include stops at multiple islands. Ask your cruise advisor about the best options for seeing as many islands as possible on a single sailing.

Hawaii cruises vary widely in price depending on the cruise line, departure port, time of year, and cabin type. That’s where our team truly shines. We offer access to exclusive group rates with savings of up to 50% off published fares—with no booking fees. Plus, our weekly price monitoring means we manually check your fare every week after booking and automatically adjust if the price drops. It’s a service that’s unique in the industry, and it means you never have to worry about missing a better rate. Get your free quote today!