How to choose a cruise to the Hawaiian Islands

There's a lot to see in Hawaii. Since everything is on a different island it used to be that taking air transportation was the only way to get around. Some cruise lines have itineraries leaving from such ports as Los Angeles or Vancouver that travel to and cruise the Hawaiian Islands. There are also some cruise ships that are now originating in Hawaii, allowing passengers to see a lot more.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider the advantages of cruising. It is much easier to cruise the Hawaiian Islands than getting on and off planes. There's no waiting for luggage in each spot. The ships usually travel at night so you wake up in the morning at a new destination. Also, the price of the cruise includes your room and meals.

2. Choose a cruise line. Norwegian Cruise Lines is the only one that has cruises that originate in Hawaii and go around the Islands. Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Holland America and Princess are a few of the cruise lines that originate in the United States or Canada and make stops in Hawaii.

3. Decide on an itinerary. It is possible to visit all the Hawaiian Islands by ship on one cruise, though itineraries differ greatly. They all stop (or originate) in Honolulu and add on stops such as Maui, the Big Island (where Hilo and Kona are) and Kauai.

4. Consider how much you want to spend. The cost of cruising the Hawaiian Islands will vary greatly depending on the length of the cruise and the cabin chosen. There are, however, cruises available under $1000 through the Islands. Also take into consideration the cost of airfare to either fly to Honolulu and cruise from there, or to fly back one way if the cruise originates in one port and ends in another.

5. Book the cruise. You can make arrangements for a cruise through a travel agent or directly with the cruise line.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the cruise line to see if there are any specials. Often there are unadvertised specials that can save hundreds of dollars.
• Read the fine print on advertisements for cruises around Hawaii. Question anything you are not sure about.

Resources

• Norwegian Cruise Lines
• Royal Caribbean International
• Carnival
• Holland America
• Princess

[sharonrn]

on 8/4/2009 I'm planning a trip to Hawaii next summer so this is helpful. Thanks!

[ourlastchance]

on 8/3/2009 Great Article! 5* and recommend!