A Hawaii cruise is one of the most scenic and convenient ways to explore the Hawaiian Islands. Instead of booking multiple inter-island flights, hotel transfers, and rental cars, cruising allows you to experience several islands in one seamless journey — all from the comfort of a single ship.
Whether you're drawn to lush rainforests, active volcanoes, pristine beaches, or rich native Hawaiian culture, a cruise provides access to all of it without the travel stress. It's the ideal solution for travelers who want variety, relaxation, and value in one package.
Why Choose a Hawaii Cruise
A Hawaii cruise offers one of the most seamless, scenic ways to explore the islands. Instead of juggling inter-island flights, hotel bookings, and transportation, a cruise allows you to see multiple Hawaiian destinations while unpacking just once.
Whether you're drawn to lush waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, or Polynesian culture, a cruise gives you the chance to explore it all in one trip—without the stress of planning each detail separately.
What to Expect on a Hawaii Cruise
Hawaii cruise ships operate as floating resorts. You can relax onboard between destinations, enjoy diverse dining, and take part in cultural activities. Most cruises include oceanview or balcony cabins, letting you enjoy sunrises, sunsets, and open sea views throughout your journey.
-Dining options including buffets, formal dining, and specialty restaurants
-Pools, spas, and fitness centers
-Live entertainment, performances, and themed shows
-Kids’ and teens’ clubs with supervised activities
-Onboard classes such as lei making, hula, or Hawaiian language
-Guided excursions at every port focused on nature, culture, or adventure
Cruises generally range from 7 to 16 nights depending on where they begin and how many islands are included.
Popular Hawaii Cruise Itineraries
Cruise itineraries differ based on departure location and duration. Here are the most common types:
Hawaii-Based Inter-Island Cruises
-Depart and return from Honolulu
-Typically 7 nights
-Visit Oahu, Maui, Big Island (Hilo or Kona), and Kauai
-Ideal for travelers flying directly into Hawaii who want to maximize island time
Round-Trip Cruises from California
-Depart from Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco
-Include 4 to 6 sea days each way
-Usually 15 to 18 nights
-May include an additional port in Ensenada (Mexico) or Vancouver (Canada)
-Best for those looking for a longer, relaxing trip without flying to Hawaii
Seasonal Repositioning Cruises
-One-way cruises to or from Hawaii
-Often offered in spring or fall
-May include Alaska, the South Pacific, or Asia
-Ideal for flexible travelers looking for off-season value
Most Common Ports of Call in Hawaii
Each port offers its own unique experiences and landscape. Most cruises stop at a combination of the following:
Honolulu (Oahu)
-Explore Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial
-Relax or surf at Waikiki Beach
-Hike Diamond Head or shop in downtown Honolulu
Lahaina or Kahului (Maui)
-Drive the Road to Hana
-See sunrise from the top of Haleakalā
-Snorkel at Molokini or relax on Kaanapali Beach
-Stroll Lahaina’s shops and galleries
Kona or Hilo (Big Island)
-Tour Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park
-Explore black sand beaches and waterfalls
-Visit coffee farms in Kona
-See lava tubes or steam vents near Hilo
Nāwiliwili (Kauai)
-Hike Waimea Canyon or take a helicopter tour of the Nā Pali Coast
-Kayak the Wailua River
-Visit Hanalei Bay or relax on Poipu Beach