Cruising: The Best Way to Explore
Hawaii
There’s more than
one way to see Hawaii, and we would pick a cruise every time. Here’s why:
While they’re all stunning, each Hawaiian Island has its own unique
landscape and special character, from the volcanoes of the Big Island to the towering
waterfalls of Kauai. You’ll want to see more than one island, and a cruise makes
that easy. You board your ship, unpack and relax, with no worries about having
to repack to catch a flight each time you change islands.
A cruise is cost-efficient, too: Taking flights between islands
gets expensive. Also, meals on shore can be pricey. As a cruise passenger, you’ll
have the option of returning to the ship for delicious meals that are included
in your cruise fare.
A cruise also guarantees some spectacular over-the-water views of
the islands from the ship’s decks, if not from your very own stateroom. That’s
something you don’t necessarily get from a hotel or resort, even if it’s on the
water.
When you choose
to cruise Hawaii, you have a choice of two basic cruise options. One is to fly
to Honolulu and board a ship that cruises only among the islands. This will
maximize your vacation time in Hawaii. Another option is to sail from a west
coast port like San Diego, Los Angeles or Vancouver. This will give you time to
enjoy the amenities of your ship as you sail across the Pacific.
However you get
there, what can you plan to see on a Hawaiian cruise? Popular ports include Honolulu
on the island of Oahu, with the iconic peak of Diamondhead and Waikiki Beach. A
visit to the lovely and solemn USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor is a must,
too.
Some people say Kauai
is the most beautiful of the islands. Popular shore excursions include lush
Waimea Canyon or a visit to the island’s breathtaking Napali coast.
Maui is known for
its laid-back, artsy ambiance, with fantastic beaches and Haleakala National
Park, which offers some adventurous excursions.
The Big Island of
Hawaii has plantations that produce world-famous Kona coffee, plus, the stark
beauty of Volcanoes National Park.
Some cruises visit
the tranquil, less-developed islands of Lanai and Molokai, too. Talk with
Anita, your professional travel advisor, soon to make your plans for cruising
the Hawaiian Islands.