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Complete Hawaii cruise handbook: Norwegian Cruise Line Hawaii routes, Royal Caribbean Hawaii itineraries, and in-depth guides to Honolulu on Oahu, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island
Hawaii is the ultimate American vacation destination and the perfect archipelago for a cruise. Set sail from Oahu and hop between Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai — each island has its own personality, and every port call is a brand-new adventure.
I. Why Choose a Hawaii Cruise?
Advantages of a Hawaii cruise:
- All-inclusive ticket: Accommodation + meals + transportation in one price — often 40% cheaper than booking separate island hotels and flights
- No repacking daily: Your ship is your moving hotel
- No baggage weight limit: Most cruise lines place no weight restrictions on luggage — a shopaholic’s dream
- Unique perspective: Watching sunsets from the ocean is an experience that land travel simply cannot replicate
Note: Most Hawaii cruises depart from Honolulu (Oahu), so you need to fly there first. A 2-day pre-cruise stay on Oahu is highly recommended, plus an extra day at the end.
II. Main Cruise Itineraries
| Cruise Line | Route | Duration | Price/Person | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwegian (NCL) | Hawaii 7-Day | 7 days | $800–1,800 | 6 islands included, free beverage package |
| Royal Caribbean | Navigator of the Seas Hawaii | 10 days | $1,200–2,500 | Largest and newest, most amenities |
| Holland America | Hawaii Explorations | 10 days | $1,000–2,200 | Classic route, high Dutch service quality |
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III. Must-Visit Islands
Oahu (Honolulu)
Hawaii’s showcase island — Waikiki Beach, Ala Moana Shopping Center, and downtown Honolulu. Best explored before boarding:
- Pearl Harbor Arizona Memorial: Free, but advance reservations required for entry
- Diamond Head: A 30-minute hike to the summit with panoramic views of Honolulu; most beautiful at sunrise
- Polynesian Cultural Center: Learn about Hawaiian indigenous culture; the evening LUAU performance is not to be missed
Big Island (Hawaii Island)
The island is home to two active volcanoes — Mauna Kea (sunset stargazing point) and Kilauea (lava landscapes).
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: UNESCO World Heritage site, $30/vehicle entry; drive in to see the lava lake (subject to volcanic activity)
- Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: Green sea turtles basking on black volcanic rock
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes — the volcanic terrain is rugged
Maui
Haleakalā National Park on Maui is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano. The sunrise viewing point is a world-class spectacle.
- Sunrise strategy: Advance vehicle permits are required (only 240 cars per day allowed to self-drive up), or join an organized tour
- Road to Hana: Follow the cliff-hugging coastal road eastward — over 600 curves, countless waterfalls and black sand beaches, Maui’s most iconic self-drive route
IV. Cruise Tips
- Gratuities: US-style cruises typically add $14–18/day in automatic service charges
- Internet: Satellite WiFi at sea is expensive; download offline maps and episodes before departure
- Dress code: Smart casual for dinner; relaxed poolside
- Shore excursion booking: Book in advance on Klook — port time is limited, and last-minute on-site booking is both pricier and risks sellouts
V. Flight + Hotel Combination Suggestions
If you’re not staying on the cruise ship, how to choose a Hawaii hotel?
- Waikiki (Oahu): Most convenient — shopping, dining, and beach all walkable; $150–400/night
- Kapalua (Maui): Upscale resort area; bundled packages offer good value, ideal for honeymoons
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