How to Select a Hawaii Cruise

Exotic islands, sunny ports and rooms that rival five-star hotels – if you're thinking of a Hawaii cruise, you're probably dreaming of all this and more. To get the best deal, don't make a decision on price alone. Great deals go in the blink of an eye, but the experience you have will last a lifetime.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Plan early. With all the options, there's no need to rush. Pull out your calendar and mark a target date that is about six months away. This will help you save money and find a perfect cruise for you.

2. Fuel your dreams. Body surfing at Makapu'u or parachute jump in Mokuleia – Hawaii is full of action, but you'll want to find out what you're interested in before deciding on a cruise.

3. Consider planning around events. Hawaii's festival season lasts about 12 weeks, from late February to mid-May. There's whale watching right from ship through the festival season but for real excitement you can't miss the Honolulu Festival on Oahu.

4. Locate entertainment. Cruise lines offer both on-board entertainment and on-shore entertainment in the form of guided tours, snorkeling, etc. Make sure you are interested in the entertainment on offer, though, or you're wasting your money.

5. Buddy up to save a buck. Hawaii cruise ships base rates on double occupancy, so you're going to pay up to twice the amount of the per-person rate if you travel alone. Some lines will help you save on cost by rooming with other solo passengers.

6. Determine which season to travel in. From surfers to snow-weary travelers, everyone seems to agree that the best time to hit Hawaii cruises is in mid to late winter.

7. Prepare for crowds if you go during the holiday season. Getting around Hawaii's beaches can be even more difficult.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't write a stateroom off as unaffordable. Most of the time, the difference in cost is very small but the benefits of a nicer room are priceless.
• If you are on the North Shore (Turtle Bay, Haleiwa Harbor, Honolulu) make sure to check out Haleiwa Joe's restaurant for great seafood.
• Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen. The surf is beautiful and in most places – especially around Honolulu – there is zero shark danger.
• If one of your ports is Hanauma Bay, you will be required to watch a film about things to NOT do while in port. Watch it carefully! Warnings include not walking on reefs or touching any coral.
• While in port in Hawaii, if you're hurt visit the Life Guard and First Aid Center. They will be able to help you more quickly than if you wait to get back onboard ship.