cruise excursions in hawaii

Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

A Hawaii cruise offers a convenient way to island-hop as you experience Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii from both sea and land — but what exactly should you do while ashore? Choosing a cruise shore excursion in Hawaii can be tough since the 50th State offers a wide range of activities, including snorkeling and whale watching, visits to historic landmarks and sacred Hawaiian sites, and scenic excursions to breathtaking canyons and volcanoes. Foodies, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and thrill-seekers can easily get their fix, too.

With an average of eight to 10 hours on each island — although some cruises do stay overnight in select ports — it's possible to enjoy experiences that not only explore Hawaii's best-known natural, cultural and historic sites but also satisfy your own personal interests.

While shore excursion offerings, itineraries and prices vary by cruise line, here are our overall picks for the best Hawaii cruise shore excursions and what you can expect to pay.

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Prices may vary among third-party sellers, and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to help you get an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $ = under $70.
• $$ = $70-$140.
• $$$ = $140-$200.
• $$$$ = over $200.

Honolulu, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Price: $$-$$$

Pearl Harbor, one of Oahu's best-known sights, can be tricky to visit on your own because the historic World War II memorials commemorating the Dec. 7, 1941 bombing by the Japanese are located on an active military base with stringent security protocols. (No bags of any size are allowed and phones and wallets must be carried in a clear plastic bag or in a pocket.) A guided tour will get you into Pearl Harbor in a hassle-free manner and make it easy to visit the multiple sites — the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship, USS Bowfin submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — with the required reservations already arranged.

Some cruise lines offer multiple Pearl Harbor excursions with variations in the sites visited, so be sure to read tour descriptions carefully. If your cruise begins or ends in Honolulu, Pearl Harbor visits are often offered on embarkation or disembarkation day packaged with a hotel or airport transfer. Other Pearl Harbor shore excursions include a Honolulu city tour that visits Diamond Head Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Important to know: Most Pearl Harbor shore excursions last five to seven hours and are appropriate for all ages. There is quite a bit of walking involved and some stair climbing is required to visit the USS Missouri, where the formal surrender ceremony by the Japanese took place on Sept. 2, 1945, ending WWII. The somber USS Arizona Memorial, where 1,177 sailors and civilians died (many of them entombed in the sunken wreck) is reached by a short boat ride.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Diamond Head Crater hike

Diamond Head Crater, the photogenic volcanic landmark seen in many images of Waikiki Beach, isn't just amazing to look at — it's also incredible to climb. Active cruisers can take on the challenge during a guided Diamond Head adventure hike to its 763-foot summit. The payoff? Stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

This excursion requires you to ascend a series of moderate but sometimes uneven switchback trails followed by a walk through a narrow 200-foot tunnel. You'll then climb up two sets of steep stairs (76 steps and 99 steps, respectively). Those who choose the more difficult route to the summit will need to climb the 99 steps and an interior spiral staircase to reach the historic lookout bunkers. If you choose the easier route to the summit up the scenic Loop Trail, you'll then descend into the bunker and down the spiral staircase and 99 steps. You can also retrace your steps and descend on the Loop Trail.

Important to know: Book an early morning tour if it's offered, since temperatures escalate quickly by midmorning; wear sneakers and a hat and bring sunscreen and water. The hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip and takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on the group and the number of people on the trail; total tour time is three to three and a half hours.

Oahu's North Shore tour

If you've visited Honolulu before or simply prefer scenic locales to cities, a good option is a tour that whisks you away from the bustle of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki and through the Ko'oalu Mountains to the immersive beauty of Oahu's North Shore. This lush and dramatic coastline is known for the big waves that pound its beaches from October to March and for its waterfalls, sugarcane fields and historic fish ponds. The region is visually stunning and its small towns offer a chance to sample Hawaiian cuisine, especially garlic shrimp, and shop for locally grown products such as macadamia nuts and pineapples.

Highlights include big-wave surfers riding the famed Banzai Pipeline (during winter months); the Byodo Temple, a Buddhist shrine built amid towering green peaks in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii; the waterfalls of Waimea Valley; and historic Haleiwa Town.

Important to know: North Shore excursions are typically five to seven hours in length with at least half the time spent on the tour bus. On sailings that end in Honolulu, some cruise lines offer panoramic North Shore tours combined with an airport drop-off (available for those with flights departing after 5:00 p.m.).

Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Monarchs tour

If Hawaii's royal history intrigues you, some cruise lines offer excursions that visit Iolani Palace, the final residence of the islands' kings and queens, and other sites of royal significance. Constructed in 1882, Iolani is the only royal palace in the United States; it was home to King Kalakaua, who built it, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned there after the U.S. annexed Hawaii. A circa-1883 statue of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810, and Kawaiahao Church, completed in 1842, are also nearby in downtown Honolulu.

Other royal sites that might be visited on a more extensive tour include the Pali Lookout, where Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu in 1795, and Mauna Ala, the royal mausoleum where six of the last eight Hawaiian monarchs are entombed.

Important to know: Most Iolani Palace and royal-focused shore excursions last about four hours and combine a bus tour with a self-guided audio tour of the palace.

Related: 10 cruise ship excursions to avoid

Kahului, Maui

Haleakala Crater

Price: $$$-$$$$

Experiencing Haleakala Crater is on many Maui visitors' must-do lists and there are several ways to visit the slumbering 10,023-foot-tall volcanic peak that dominates the island's landscape. (Don't worry – it last erupted in 1790.) A few shore excursion options require that your cruise ship overnights in Kahului, the main port, or Lahaina, or has a late sail-away time.

Haleakala means "House of the Sun" and perhaps the most surreal experiences are tours at sunrise or sunset (available on sailings that overnight in Maui). To experience sunrise high above the clouds you'll need to depart the ship before 3:00 a.m. and wind your way up Haleakala's curving roadway in total darkness before watching the sun brighten the horizon and illuminate the vast 3,000-feet-deep crater with its dramatic orange-hued cinder cones. In contrast, a sunset tour lets you survey the crater and then watch as the sun disappears below the clouds and the night sky fills with twinkling stars. If you just want to experience Haleakala's scenic slopes and crater in daylight, panoramic sightseeing tours are also available.

If you're more adventurous, there are also Haleakala downhill biking tours, which transport you by minibus to an elevation of 6,500 feet and let you ride 14 miles down the switchback road on Haleakala's slopes amid the farms of Upcountry. Most bike tours do not offer access to the summit and crater.

Important to know: Haleakala tours typically last four to seven hours. Because of Haleakala's high altitude and volcanic nature, they aren't recommended for anyone with respiratory or heart problems. Temperatures are much cooler (45 to 65 degrees) at the summit, so bring a sweater or jacket.

Road to Hana

Driving Maui's legendary Road to Hana, a narrow, twisting, 52-mile route with more than 600 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges, takes considerable concentration — but a Road to Hana tour on a professionally driven minibus frees everyone in your travel group to relax and enjoy the epic scenery along the way. Most cruise lines offer full-day excursions to Hana, a low-key hamlet located on the island's east coast amid jagged volcanic rocks and black-sand beaches.

Besides the thrill of this one-of-a-kind drive, which takes two to three hours to navigate, a Road to Hana excursion offers a chance to experience Maui's splendid bays and lush landscape of lava pinnacles, tropical fruit trees, giant ferns and rushing waterfalls. Highlights include the black-sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pua'a Ka'a State Park and the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe'o Gulch with its multiple cascades and soothing natural pools.

Important to know: Road to Hana excursions typically take nine to 10 hours, include lunch and aren't recommended for anyone prone to motion sickness. Sites visited vary by cruise line and some tours allow time for swimming.

Molokini Crater snorkel

Maui is home to one of the premier snorkel spots in Hawaii: Molokini, a mostly submerged crescent-shaped volcanic islet located about 2.5 miles off Maui's southern coast. This protected marine conservation site is reached via a scenic catamaran sail, during which guides will outfit you with snorkel gear and provide instructions for exploring these crystal-clear reef waters teeming with colorful sea life. Some excursions also visit Turtle Arches, lava formations known for frequent sea turtle sightings, and during humpback season (December to April), it's also possible to spot whales in the area.

Important to know: Molokini Crater snorkel tours are generally four hours long and all equipment, as well as breakfast, lunch or snacks and beverages, are provided. Water conditions can vary, so if seasickness is a problem, take that into consideration before booking.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Whale watching

If you're cruising Hawaii between December and April and you're fascinated by whales, Maui offers a terrific opportunity to see pods of humpbacks in their winter playground. More than 10,000 of these charismatic giants migrate here annually to mate and give birth. Their activities — tail slaps, breaches and calves swimming alongside their mothers — are all on display as you venture out in a whale-watching boat, or perhaps a more adventurous Zodiac. Most tours are led by naturalist guides, and in some cases a portion of the cost is earmarked for conservation through the Pacific Whale Foundation.

Important to know: Expect to spend about three hours at sea as guides search for whales; sightings, while likely, aren't always guaranteed. Water conditions can also vary and seasickness is a possibility.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Waimea Canyon tour

Price: $-$$

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile-long gorge known for the dramatic red and green hues of craggy cliffs that extend up to 3,000 feet below its rim. Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, which now requires reservations for individual visits, this scenic treasure can be viewed from lookout points.

A shore excursion that allows for about 30 minutes of viewing and picture taking is certainly the easiest way to see the canyon from a cruise ship. These tours include lots of scenic touring during the 90-minute drive each way between the cruise terminal and the canyon; many stop at the Spouting Horn blowhole or small towns in Kauai's Koloa district.

But there are caveats, namely that rainy conditions on Kauai, which is Hawaii's wettest island, can fog in the gorge and make for a disappointing outing. Kauai's driest months are April to September.

Important to know: Most Waimea Canyon excursions take four to five hours; some longer Best of Kauai excursions combine a visit to the canyon with a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Hollywood in Hawaii tour

Fans of "Jurassic Park" probably know that much of the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie was filmed on Kauai — but a number of other big-screen and TV classics were, too. Movie-set tours are popular excursions, especially for film buffs. These tours take place on minibuses or motor coaches outfitted with TV screens, so you can watch snippets of Hollywood movies where they were filmed and, in some places, get out and snap photos yourself.

Besides "Jurassic Park," other movies and TV shows filmed on the island include "Tropic Thunder," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Six Days and Seven Nights," "Blue Hawaii," "South Pacific," "Donovan's Reef," "Gilligan's Island," "Fantasy Island" and "The Amazing Race."

Important to know: Most movie-set excursions take about five to six hours and primarily involve scenic touring — so even if you haven't seen the movies, it's an entertaining and comfortable way to sightsee Kauai.

Wailua River cruise and Fern Grotto

Price: $$ - $$$

Kauai is home to Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua River, which offers access to one of its lushest hidden spots: the Fern Grotto. This excursion combines a relaxing cruise with insights into Hawaiian culture and entertainment in the form of Hawaiian song and dance. The tourist boats that navigate this peaceful river through Wailua River State Park are run by a local family with members providing commentary.

Access to the Fern Grotto, a natural lava-rock cave covered with lush tropical vines, requires a 10-minute walk along a mostly flat, paved and shaded path. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, photo ops and additional entertainment await. Wailua River cruise tours also generally stop for picture-taking at Opaeka'a Falls, a 151-foot cascade that plunges into a secluded pool.

Important to know: Most Wailua River and Fern Grotto excursions are three to four hours long. Tours that combine those sights with a tour of Waimea Canyon last about seven hours and include lunch.

 Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions, is accessible from both cruise ports on the island of Hawaii, it's a quicker trip (about 30 to 35 minutes' drive each way) from Hilo. Most cruise lines offer excursions, but almost all of them are just a basic introduction that only touches on what this 505-square-mile national park has to offer.

The main activity involves visiting several viewpoints and steam vents on the rim of Kilauea Crater with a guide who offers commentary on this active volcano's history, geology and current status. It's unlikely you'll see molten lava, and most tours do not drive out along the famous Chain of Craters Road. Some tours, however, do include a walk through the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Other longer and more costly excursions of up to seven hours combine a visit to the national park with a helicopter flight-seeing tour and/or stops at various waterfalls or gardens near Hilo.

Important to know: Standard Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours are about four hours long, and many also make a stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center for tastings and shopping. The walk to the rim of the Kilauea crater is mostly on gravel or dirt pathways, but some areas overlooking the crater have potential trip hazards. Also, because the crater emits volcanic gases, these tours aren't advised for people with respiratory issues.

Hilo waterfalls and gardens

Hilo's location on the island of Hawaii's lush leeward side makes it a mecca for cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. Cruise ship excursions that visit several falls or combine a visit to a single waterfall with a stop at a botanical garden, tropical zoo or orchid farm are popular.

The two major falls near Hilo are the 100-foot Rainbow Falls, which earned its name from the prismatic effect that takes place on sunny mornings, and the powerful Akaka Falls, which is reached via a walk through a tropical forest and tumbles a breathtaking 442 feet. Other tour stops could include Hilo's Liliuokalani Gardens (the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan), the Nani Mau Gardens or the Pana'ewa Rainforest Gardens and Zoo.

Important to know: Waterfalls and gardens shore excursions vary in length from four to seven hours, and participants should expect to be on their feet for a good portion of the tour. Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking lot. To see Akaka Falls, you must navigate quite a few steps and walk a half-mile circular path.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Volcano Winery

The island of Hawaii is home to Volcano Winery, the southernmost winery in the U.S. If sipping vino is a favorite pastime — and you have a curious palate — an excursion here could be a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Volcano Winery, which is family-owned and located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, specializes in tropical blends by mixing distinctive local fruits such as yellow guava and even tea and honey with grape varietals that include Pinot Noir and Cayuga to produce uniquely flavored wines. It also produces some 100% grape wines.

Important to know: Excursions to Volcano Winery are generally three hours long and include a tour of the winery and a tasting.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona Coast snorkel

For passengers who didn't get a chance to snorkel in Maui, the waters just off Kona's rugged lava coast offer another excellent opportunity to spy on Mother Nature's underwater handiwork. Most cruise lines offer a snorkel excursion by catamaran that will allow even novices to don a mask and fins and behold the intricate coral and dazzling reef fish that call the area's tranquil bays and coves home. Dolphin spotting is also possible.

A more adventurous option is a snorkel tour by Zodiac, which combines the thrill of zipping around in a 24-foot motorized raft with enjoying up-close views of coastal caves and lava tubes — and some snorkel time, of course.

Important to know: Most catamaran snorkel excursions are appropriate for all ages, last about four hours and include either breakfast or lunch; all equipment, including flotation aids, is provided and some catamarans are equipped with a diving board and waterslide for added fun. Zodiac excursions are more physically demanding and are not recommended if you have back or neck problems; you also need to be able to climb back into the raft via a small four-rung ladder.

Atlantis Submarine

Price: $$-$$$$

If you've never been in a submarine, Kona offers a chance to see the area's abundant sea life as you venture 100 feet below the surface of the Kona coast's crystal-clear waters. The Atlantis Submarine (also operating on Maui and Oahu) is U.S. Coast Guard-certified, fully air-conditioned and offers individual viewing portholes.

Important to know: Atlantis Submarine excursions last about one and a half hours and are not recommended for anyone prone to claustrophobia or motion sickness; you must be at least 3 feet tall and able to climb a vertical 12-step ladder into and out of the submarine. Excursion costs vary widely from cruise line to cruise line.

Kona coffee tour

Kona is famous for the coffee that grows in its rich volcanic soil, so if you want to taste a cup of Joe right at the source, this port is the place to do it. Cruise lines offer a variety of coffee-themed excursions; some are geared to education about the farming and production process while others focus more on sampling the goods and buying souvenirs to take home.

Some foodie-focused tours combine coffee sipping with locally grown chocolate tastings and visits to Kona-based breweries, while other full-day excursions pair a visit to a coffee farm with a cloud forest tour or a tour of Kona's top historic sights and a snorkel in Kealakekua Bay.

Important info: Kona coffee excursions are mostly three to four hours long. However, costs vary widely depending on the type of excursion, from a simple tasting room visit to a farm-based roasting experience.

Place of Refuge and Painted Church

History buffs will find plenty to love on this guided bus excursion, which visits cultural and religious sites along the Kona Coast. Three key locations are on the itinerary, the first being Kealakekua Bay, where legendary Captain Cook met his demise at the hands of local Hawaiians in 1778 and is memorialized in a monument.

Nearby is the second stop: St. Benedict's Painted Church. While the outside of this small Catholic church built in 1899 looks traditional, the inside dazzles with the artwork of Father John Velghe, a Belgian priest who drew the murals in an effort to teach local Hawaiians how to read.

The third is Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which means "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." Built in 1650 and carefully restored, this cultural site is an ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were once stored. It later became a place of refuge for defeated warriors.

Important to know: Place of Refuge and Painted Church excursions are typically three to four hours long and involve a minimal amount of walking.

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Welcome to the lovely state of Hawaii where many believe the word paradise was invented. With breathtaking beauty and exotic culture, this U.S. state has become a favorite for any and all travelers and of course for cruise ship passengers visiting Hawaii on their Hawaii Cruise. Whether this is a return trip or a bucket list vacation, you are sure to make memories here that will last a lifetime on one of our many Hawaii Excursions and Hawaii Shore Excursions. Cruise ships are an extremely popular way to visit Hawaii. The most popular ports of call listed north to south are Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kahului, Hilo, and Kona. Cruise lines that service Hawaii includes Princess Cruise Lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America among many. Hawaii Excursions that are popular range from the traditional Luau as in the Kauai Traditional Luau and Polynesian Show Excursion to the modern sport of zip-lining that can be experienced during our Kahului Maui Canopy Zipline Excursion and just about everything in between. At the top of the excitement-list is Oahu Honolulu Shark Cage Excursion ! You can enjoy activities that embrace the Polynesian culture such as visiting the palaces of royal families or visiting a volcano at sunset or sunrise as on our Kahului Maui Haleakala Volcano Crater Sunrise Excursion . There are waterfalls to explore on our Hilo Rainforest Valley Waterfall Coastline Excursion , mountain paths to bike on our Lahaina Maui Haleakala Volcano Downhill Bike Ride Excursion , and beaches to lay on where you can watch the world's best surfers. Take in the famous sights and ride comfortable transportation while on our Kona Big Island Historical Sightseeing Excursion or on our Kauai Exclusive North and East Coast Sightseeing Excursion . There's the history of Pearl Harbor which is explained on our Oahu Honolulu City and Pearl Harbor Disembarkation Excursion . Aloha! Enjoy our Hawaii Excursions and Hawaii Shore Excursions on your Hawaii Cruise!

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Latest reviews of Cruise Ship Shore Excursions

Awesome day.

Bjorn was knowledgeable, funny, well prepared and very patient. We had a very memorable day!!

Our bus tour guide was absolutely amazing! Juicy is his name. He was very informative and funny. He helped us with everything we needed and told us where to go. The pearl harbor site was breathe taking. They are all very ... more informative at every site you go to. The Missouri is massive and takes awhile to see it all but it was very self explanatory and easy to do a self tour. It was all worth it!

Solemn day in history, but happy that while on island we got to see the spot where all took place.

Great Tour!

This tour covered all the bases and then some. I am very thankful we chose the guided tour option, the guides really know it all! Mahalo E Noa , we will be back hopefully soon!

Solid and informing day at the place that will live in Infamy.

Well organized and efficient/enjoyable tour Bus ride out and back was very informative of the time from a local perspective. All the arrangements and timing at the historic site with its distinct ticketing ( mighty Mi, ... more the AZ memorial) was seamless and great. Highly recommend for a fine and necessary day trip on Oahu.

Great way to see the other side of the island.

It was a good tour and great driver. I wish we would have stopped at more of the scenic spots and skipped some of the roadside gift shops. One was enough. I would skip the Dole Plantation altogether.

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Welcome to Hawaii Cruise Excursions, your guide to Hawaii shore tours in the Islands of Maui , Big Island and Kauai .

Each Hawaiian island is unique and our tours are designed to allow you to enjoy the best excursion experiences for each island. Use our Guide to Hawaii to get you started planning the perfect vacation.

Hawaii Cruise Excursions are tour and excursion experts representing the best independent operators in Hawaii. We provide firsthand information on each and every excursion we offer and recommend the excursions that work best for you. That's the Island Marketing Ltd. difference !

We guarantee a full refund of your excursion deposit if your ship can not make it into port in the Hawaiian Islands.

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Excursions & Tours

Historic Kona

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Kona tours to hawaii’s big island.

Resting on the majestic western portion of Hawaii's big island is the town of Kona, home to a few volcanic mountains. With its lovely weather year-round, this is easily a top contender in destinations to visit worldwide. Unleash some of Kona's history on a cruise excursion, rooted in St. Benedict's painted church, and discover the rich fishing tradition on this part of the island. Hike the rainforest and walk among the natural beauty of lush green landscapes and majestic waterfalls. Book a Big Island excursion today!

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Hawaii Shore Excursions

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When cruising the Hawaiian Islands , you’ll want to book Hawaii shore excursions that best suit your own idea of time well spent in this blue-sky, deep-blue water Pacific paradise. The only thing you’ll have to worry about in paradise is deciding how to spend your island time with the many things to do in Hawaii during a cruise .

When your cruise ship docks at Hilo on the east side of the “big island,” that is, the Island of Hawai’i, shore excursions booked in advance can whisk you from your ship to dream venues and exciting ventures that range from ziplining on the island’s longest course, passing over tropical river gorges, lushly flowing waterfalls, and gorgeous foliage, to journeying in an all-terrain vehicle to the top of Mauna Kea, one of the world’s highest peaks at 13,796 feet, and where you’ll visit the Keck Observatory, home to twin 300-ton telescopes.

Feel more comfortable at ground level? Enjoy a bracing bike ride through Volcanoes National Park, along the rim of the Kilauea volcano, or get a glimpse of real Hawaiian life on a small group tour to the homes of three different island residents, where you’ll be welcomed in true Aloha spirit and treated to a luncheon course featuring local specialties at each home.

On Kailua Kona , located on the leeward (west) coast of the “big island,” book Hawaii cruise excursions that take advantage of the area’s incredible natural wonders: snorkel with over 600 species of ocean wildlife in clear blue waters at top-rated destinations; discover the enchanting world of seahorses at a seahorse farm; walk in a clouded-shrouded native forest; taste and appreciate the most famous of the island’s home grown crops, Kona coffee, on a farm-to-table tour.

When your cruise docks at Lahaina, Maui , in addition to classic Hawaii shore excursions that include a luau and a Polynesian show, complete with dancers and Samoan knife and fire dancing, there are multiple opportunities for active adventures, from a hike through volcanic landscapes at Haleakala National Park, a rainforest and waterfall trek, and a chance to play a round of golf at Pukalani Country Club, (the name means “entrance to heaven) with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and West Maui Mountains.

Your adventures in Hawaii continues on the island of Oahu , where you can fly over the island on a scenic helicopter tour,  to the island’s most visited site, the Pearl Harbor Visitors Center. Here, you can step back in time, viewing memorabilia, rare film footage, and exhibits that mark the fateful and historic day of The United States’ entrance into World War II.

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• Cruising Hawaii

The best Hawaiian island excursions on NCL Pride of America and other Hawaii cruises

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Maui day one suggestions, maui day two suggestions, best tours and excursions to take from hawaii (big) island – hilo side , best tours and excursions to take from hawaii (big) island – kona side , kauai day one suggestions, kauai day two suggestions, best tours and excursions from honolulu, oahu , what to bring with you on your hawaii tours and excursions.

Cruises are a great way to see many Hawaiian islands in a short period of time. With so many options and such little time in each port, it’s a daunting process to choose what you will see and do.

When each Hawaiian island offers so much to see and do for a week-long land vacation , how do you best spend your limited hours at each port? The options can be overwhelming! We’ve gone on many land vacations in Hawaii and we’ve taken the NCL Pride of America cruise of Hawaii , so we know Hawaii very, very well. As such, we’d like to share some thoughts and suggestions on the top tours to do in each port.

With our suggestions, we’ve aimed our focus on the places considered to be must-see . Along with outstanding scenery, we’ve also included some recommendations for learning about the culture.

As the Pride of America cruise of Hawaii is quite popular, we’ll roughly follow their itinerary as we look at each port. Note that this cruise is the only one that continuously cruises within the Hawaiian islands. Every Saturday afternoon, it sets sail from Honolulu. Within a week, the Pride of America goes to Maui, Hawaii (Big) Island, Kauai, and then returns to Honolulu for disembarkation on Saturday morning. See the following image for that itinerary.

If you are not taking the Pride of America’s cruise of Hawaii and are visiting from another ship, please verify that our suggested tours and activities align with the time constraints of your cruise ship’s itinerary.

One more point regarding time and tours, don’t try to be overly ambitious with the tours you choose that are outside of what the cruise ship offers. If your tour runs late, you might risk missing the ship, and getting back to the ship will be at your own expense. A good way to eliminate this risk is to build in a time buffer and/or book your excursions through the cruise company.

Best tours and excursions to take from Kahului, Maui

The road to Hana is one of Maui’s top attractions. This rainforest drive offers lush, tropical scenery, a black beach, waterfalls and beautiful coastal views. (One caution – if you are prone to carsickness, prepare with your preventative measures or skip this tour.)  Though we’ve taken the road to Hana many times before, when we cruised Hawaii on the Pride of America , we chose a guided tour.

Most excursions offered through the cruise ships only go to Hana and turn around, but there’s much to see beyond Hana. We opted for a tour with Valley Isle Excursions , which took us well beyond Hana in a long loop back to Kahului.

The reason we chose the road to Hana for day one of our two-day stop at Maui is that this tour takes all day. If, for some reason, your tour gets delayed, you won’t miss the boat if you have an overnight stay in port. Note that if your cruise only has one day for Maui, you might have to opt for the tours that go to Hana and back due to time constraints.

If you prefer to DIY, it is possible to rent a car and drive the road to Hana. You’ll want to do a lot of research first to make sure you use your time wisely. See our advice for the road to Hana . Note that we have a mini-guide to the road to Hana that allows you to see some awesome sights but doesn’t go to Hana and doesn’t take the entire day.

Alternatives for Day One on Maui

If the road to Hana doesn’t appeal to you, consider other tour options provided by the ship or rent a car and sightsee on your own. Look for an organized or DIY tour that might include the following options:

• Historic Lahaina is a neat town to walk around, check out the shops, see their large banyan tree, and have lunch.
• If it’s humpback whale season in Hawaii , which runs roughly from December-ish to April-ish, consider going on a whale-watching tour. Maui is one of the best islands for humpback whale watching.
• The Iao Valley is a fascinating place to see, so if you can, squeeze that in on either day one or two. It only takes about an average of 30 minutes to see this valley, so it can be combined with other sightseeing.
• Maui and Hawaii (Big) Island are our favorite islands for snorkeling. The crescent-shaped crater of Molokini is a top spot for snorkeling in Hawaii. Look for a tour that includes “turtle town” which may give you an opportunity to see honu (Hawaiian sea turtles.)
• We really like the  luau options on Maui , so if your ship has an overnight stay on Maui, the evening of day one would be a very good evening to enjoy a luau. 

Seeing sunrise from 10,000 feet above sea level on a dormant volcano is quite a unique experience. Haleakala sunrise is one of the top activities for Maui. If your ship stays overnight on Maui, day two would be your only option for seeing sunrise from Haleakala.

If you toured the road to Hana on day one, check out the other suggestions we listed above under “Alternatives for Day One on Maui”

One of the most fascinating attractions in all of Hawaii is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . It’s a park that is worthy of exploring for more than just a day, but as you’ll likely only have a day here, you’ll get to see some of the park’s highlights. Don’t miss it, especially if you have the opportunity to see volcanic activity.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is about a 50-minute drive from Hilo. So, you’ll need a tour or rent a car. The ship will offer tours, but if you want to consider an independent operation, we had a great tour with Keikana Tours’ Hoppa On Hoppa Off .

From the Kona side, our number one pick would be seeing Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park . It’s often referred to as the Place of Refuge. This park offers an opportunity to learn about ancient Hawaiian culture with a stunning oceanside backdrop. At the moment, we’re not seeing a tour to this park being offered by NCL, so you’d have to rent a car or get a private tour guide to get here. It’s about a 40-minute drive from where the tenders drop off passengers. If you opt to see this place of refuge, you will also be able to make time to tour a coffee farm for which Kona is famous. We’ve enjoyed visits to Greenwell Farms . If you still have time available, visit Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park

Alternative ideas for Hawaii (Big) Island, Kona :

• If you did not snorkel on Maui or would like to do so again, Kealakekua Bay is a great place to snorkel. You’ll need a tour to get there.
• The Kohala waterfalls tour is an excellent waterfall tour. Plus, the drive to and from north Kohala offers you the chance to see more of the island.  I’m not certain, but I believe the Kohala waterfall tour offered by the cruise companies is this same one .
• Walk around Kona to check out the historic sites, shops and restaurants.

Best tours and excursions from Nawiliwili/Lihue, Kauai

Choosing what to do on Kauai seems to be a bigger challenge than the other islands. There’s so much to see and do! Here are our thoughts for day one:

– Our number one suggestion would be to rent a car. This would give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Years ago, we wrote this article — I only have one day on Kauai. What should I see? It’s still good advice as you’d get to see the Kalalau Valley Lookout , Waimea Canyon , Spouting Horn and two of Kauai’s most iconic waterfalls — Opaeka’a and Wailua Falls . Those are all must-see places in Kauai, in our opinion. If you are on the NCL Pride of America cruise, you should have plenty of time to see all of this on the first day of your stop at Kauai, which includes an overnight stay.

If you don’t want to rent a car, look for a guided tour that includes some of the sites just mentioned.

Alternative ideas for Kauai day one :

– Kauai is a spectacular island for a helicopter tour. See this link to review Kauai helicopter tour companies and read reviews .

– A Kauai movie sites tour takes you to some beautiful spots where movies have been filmed in Kauai.

– For some fun, we love the Mountain Tubing Adventure . See our review . (If you do this on day two, get the first morning tour in order to allow enough time to get back to the ship before departure.)

– Another one of our favorite tours is the Kauai Secret/Sacred Falls Kayak and Waterfall Hike .

Other notes about Day One on Kauai

If you are on the Pride of America , this is the port where the ship has arranged the option to go on a luau. They advertise it a lot. We have not been on to this luau, so we cannot speak from experience, but the feedback we heard from a handful of other passengers is that they were slightly disappointed. Our favorite luaus are on Maui and Oahu. See Maui luau options and Oahu luau options .

If you are on the Pride of America , this is a short day as you are only in port until 2pm. So taking tours could be tricky on this day. Here are some thoughts:

– Kalapaki Beach is a nice beach and just a short (approximately 0.5 miles) walk or shuttle ride from the cruise terminal.

– Consider a helicopter tour, as we mentioned above. Kauai is our favorite island for a helicopter tour. Most tours only take an hour and the airport is only about five minutes away from the cruise terminal.

– As we mentioned above, for some fun, we love the Mountain Tubing Adventure . See our review . You would need to get their first tour at 9am to make this feasible for day two of your stop in Kauai. Double-check the timing as that can be subject to change.

If you are on the Pride of America, the ship will make its way around Kauai to cruise by Kauai’s stunning Na Pali Coast. You will have some time, probably a couple of hours, from when you leave the dock to when you can see the Na Pali Coast. Check with guest relations for their estimated timing for that day. You will definitely want to take in those views.

We hope you’ve allowed at least an extra day or two to explore Oahu either on the front end or the back end of the cruise. Here is our Oahu vacation itinerary that you can adjust to your available days.

The cruise companies have excursions to see Pearl Harbor and some Honolulu sites with an airport drop-off. That is worth doing if you can fit it in and if you didn’t allow extra days on Oahu.

Here’s a list of general items you’ll need or want for your excursions.

• Your identification and key card
• Tour vouchers
• Fully charged smart phone and/or camera
• A light jacket, preferably waterproof, in case of a rain shower. Additionally, some of the places like Waimea Canyon, Haleakala summit and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are in elevated, cooler climates.
• Water to stay hydrated
• A hat or visor
• Comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty as you might be walking on some dusty or muddy trails.
• Some tours may necessitate beach towels.

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

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The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Can’t Miss Big Island Shore Excursions for Your Hawaii Cruise

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As the largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, the Big Island is a magnificent destination for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and history buffs. While most ships only stop here for a short duration, booking a shore excursion gives you the chance to make the most of your time here.

For example, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America ship leaves every week from Honolulu, Oahu , and makes its way to Maui , Kauai , and the Big Island . It docks in two different places here – first in Hilo and then in Kailua-Kona. This means you’ll have two opportunities to disembark and explore two distinct sides of the island.

However, cruise passengers need to be aware of the ship’s arrival and departure schedule, so it’s crucial to only book excursions that fit this timing. To help make planning easier, we’ll share everything you need to know about booking an exhilarating shore excursion on your Hawaiian cruise!

Want to cut right to the best of Big Island Shore Excursions? We’ve got you covered: From Hilo visit Volcanoes National Park or try stargazing from Mauna Kea While you’re in Kona, tour a Kona Coffee Farm , go snorkeling with manta rays , and if you’re cruising in the winter, go whale watching ! Get more from your cruise vacation with our Hawaii Cruise Travel Guide

Can’t Miss Big Island Shore Excursions

While there are many different types of excursions to choose from, some experiences are simply too good to pass up. Click the links below to learn more about the most popular tours to book while you’re on the island:

Volcanoes National Park (Hilo): Home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Volcanoes National Park is an otherworldly landscape of lava fields, rainforests, and rugged coastlines. Even if the volcanoes aren’t active (you can check the status on the USGS website ), the park is still worth a visit, especially if you’re a big hiker. However, it’s also possible to drive, as there are several interesting routes that you can do yourself with our Cruising Hawaii Itinerary or book with a guide.

Our favorite guided tours to Volcanoes National Hike are a trip to Volcanoes and Stargazing and a full Guided Tour of Volcanoes with Easy Hiking .

Kona Coffee Farm Tour (Kona): If you’re a coffee aficionado, then you won’t want to miss touring one of the many farms on the Kona coast. You’ll learn about how beans are grown and harvested, while also being treated to a delicious tasting.

Manta Ray Night Snorkeling (Kona) : This is your own opportunity in Hawaii to swim with massive 6 to 10-foot-long wingspan manta rays! But because this is an evening event, you’ll need to stay overnight on land (we’ll explain more about that in the following section).

Mauna Kea Stargazing : Stargazing from atop a volcano in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is a once-in-a-lifetime event! You won’t believe how many stars you can see in the sky!

Whale Watching (Kona and South Kohala): This activity can only be done during the whale migration season, which is roughly between January and March. Kailua-Kona is world-renowned for whale watching, especially on Puako Bay in South Kohala District.

See more shore excursions for your cruise: 14 Incredible Honolulu Shore Excursions (cruise ship ready) 11 Incredible Kauai Shore Excursions (perfect for a cruise schedule) The Best Maui Shore Excursions for Your Hawaii Cruise

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Hawaii cruise ports so you know what to expect at each stop. Some ports are central to a downtown area where you could spend all day ( Kailua Pier ) and others are far from anything you’ll want to do ( Kahului Harbor ).

Staying Overnight on the Big Island for Shore Excursions

There are some shore experiences that you can only do if you spend the night on the island, as they start after 6 PM. This includes night snorkeling with manta rays and stargazing at Mauna Kea . If your ship is docked overnight, we recommend booking one of these activities, as they are unique to the Big Island.

However, you can spend the night on land even if your ship changes port (as the NCL Pride of America does). To do this, you will need to book a hotel and also arrange for a rental car to pick up in Hilo and drop off in Kailua-Kona to make it back to the boat the next day. Or you can take public transportation by using the Hele-On Bus .

Keep in mind that different cruise lines have different policies when it comes to staying on land. In some cases, you may be charged a fine for “missing” the return time. Be sure to let the crew know your plans and keep the ship’s contact info handy.

There’s also a chance that the ship may not let passengers off in Kailua-Kona, as the ocean conditions could be too rough for the tenders to reach the port. If this happens, you’ll need to arrange your own way to return to the ship at the ship’s next port.

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Get the cruising hawaii guide.

Booking a cruise to Hawaii is the easy part (in our opinion). The hard part is finding the best shore excursions, planning self-guided itinerary days, and how to get around the island.

You’ll get our Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary + Cruising Hawaii Guide downloads, they include 90+ shore excursion tour options, over 16 self-guided itinerary days, our favorite restaurants, and the best beaches. We want your cruise to Hawaii to be unforgettable, and stress-free.

Where to Book Big Island Shore Excursions

Booking big island shore excursions with the ship.

It’s possible to book many land excursions with your cruise ship. This can be done once you’ve boarded, although most operators also allow you to book tours online before you leave.

Booking with the ship has its advantages:

• Guaranteed Return: When you book a tour with the ship, you’ll have assurance that you’ll make it back to the ship before departure. These excursions are structured around the ship’s schedule, so you won’t have to worry about them leaving without you.
• Transportation: Most tours booked with the ship include transportation to and from the dock. This takes the pain out of booking a taxi or organizing a ride for your excursion.
• Cost: You might notice that the cost of a cruise-organized excursion is more expensive than booking a tour independently. But this extra cost is often justified, considering they include transportation and a guaranteed return to the ship.
• Refunds: Weather can be unpredictable, which is why most cruise ships offer a refund in case the excursion has to be canceled. If it’s too windy or rough for the ship to dock, you’ll likely get a full reimbursement for your tour.
• Booking Flexibility: As mentioned earlier, you can book excursions either online before you leave or while you’re on board (just keep in mind they may fill up fast). Having this flexibility means you can make plans on the fly depending on how you feel during your travels.

Booking Big Island Shore Excursions with the Tour Operator

You’ll also have the option of booking excursions directly with the tour operator on the Big Island. While they may not guarantee an on-time return to the ship, you can mitigate this by informing them ahead of time of your schedule.

Other benefits of booking with the tour operating include:

• Supporting Local Businesses: By bypassing the middleman to book with the tour operator, you’ll be supporting local businesses on the Big Island and giving back to the community.
• Cost Savings: A huge perk of booking with the tour operator (instead of with the cruise ship) is the cost. These excursions tend to be much cheaper since the ship often adds fees or extra charges to the bill.
• Availability: Cruise ship excursions can sell out fast, so you’ll have more choices for activities and times when booking with a tour operator. We’ll share a few excursions that you can book a bit later.
• Small Groups: Local tours generally have smaller group sizes (or even private tour options), which is great if you want a more intimate and authentic experience. You’ll find that most tours have a maximum of 12 guests.
• Cancellation Policy: If you want flexibility with the excursion, then you’ll want to book with an operator that has a flexible cancellation policy. From our experience, most tours on the Big Island have a 24 to 72-hour policy.

We have shore excursion recommendations for other Hawaiian islands too: 14 Incredible Honolulu Shore Excursions (cruise ship ready) 11 Incredible Kauai Shore Excursions (perfect for a cruise schedule) The Best Maui Shore Excursions for Your Hawaii Cruise

The Best Big Island Shore Excursions

If your ship makes two stops on the Big Island (Kailua-Kona and Hilo), then you’ll have two opportunities to explore the beautiful landscape and attractions the island has to offer. These excursions are booked with independent tour operators, which can be more cost-efficient compared to the tours offered by your cruise ship.

Big Island Shore Excursions: Port of Hilo

Located in East Hawaii, Hilo is a great jumping-off point for exploring some of Hawaii’s most notable sights. If you’re looking for fun things to do in the area, check out the following list of shore excursions.

Volcanoes National Park & Rainbow Falls

Because Hilo is only 45 minutes away from Volcanoes National Park, this excursion is one of the most popular options for cruise travelers. While there are many different park tours to choose from, this combination tour is our top pick, as it allows you to experience multiple attractions around the Big Island.

After being picked up at the port (round trip transfer is included), you’ll visit Banyan Drive, Liliuokalani Gardens, Richardson Black Sand Beach, and Rainbow Falls before heading to the national park. You’ll even get the chance to walk through a 500-year-old lava tube, which is arguably one of the coolest parts of this tour.

Umauma Zip N Dip

This is the ultimate excursion for all you adventure seekers! It combines a thrill-seeking zipline trip with swimming in the refreshing pools of a cascading waterfall.

Once you make your way to Hakalau (you’ll need to take a taxi or arrange transportation as it’s a 30-minute drive away), you’ll start on the 9-line zipline course, soaring 65 miles an hour over the treetops. Then, you’ll have an hour to swim, kayak, or stand-up paddle board in the waters of the 70-foot-tall Umauma Falls.

Check out more from The Umauma Experience: 9-Line Zipline Course with The Umauma Experience Umauma Waterfall Rappel and River Experience

Hilo Sea Turtle Lagoon and Black Sand Beach

You can’t visit the Big Island without going snorkeling, which is why we love this guided snorkeling tour in Hilo . There’s so much to see right offshore, including fish, corals, eels, rays, and even sea turtles!

While transportation is not included, the meeting point for the tour is just a mile away from the port. It’s just a short taxi ride away or a leisurely 20-minute walk. If you do plan on walking, just make sure to leave early and give yourself enough time to make it for the 9:30 AM start time.

Hilo Bay and Coconut Island Kayak Adventure

Enjoy the beauty of the Big Island from the water as you kayak along the coast of sparkling Hilo Bay. This is a guided tour with no more than six people, so you can paddle in a more personalized setting.

The tour makes its way from shore over to Coconut Island, a popular hang-out spot for swimmers, beachgoers, and picnickers. Best of all, the views of Mauna Kea from here are jaw-droppingly beautiful, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

For this tour, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation from the port. But if you’re up for the walk, you can always get here in just 20 minutes by foot.

For even more to do in Hilo, check out 1 Perfect Day in Hilo: Things to Do in Hilo for the Day

Big Island Shore Excursions: Kailua-Kona Tender

If your ship docks in the Kailua-Kona area, you’re in for a treat! This coast is known for its incredible snorkeling and water sports opportunities. And if you’re in town from January to March, you’ll also be able to go whale watching!

The following activities are some of our favorite shore excursions for experiencing Kona.

Kona Guided Tour

This full-day, 7-hour tour is the perfect mix of culture and history. You’ll get a little taste of Hawaiian history at the sacred Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park before embarking on a guided nature walk around Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. Then, you’ll make stops at a bee farm and Kona coffee plantation to learn more about the local treats produced on the island!

This excursion is great for cruise passengers, as it includes lunch and pickup directly at the pier. And they guarantee that you’ll be back at the port by 3 pm (which is before the ship’s scheduled departure time).

Big Island in a Day

If you want to see as much of Kona’s beautiful landscapes as you can during your short time, then this is the tour for you. Big Island in a Day is a small group tour (maximum of 6 guests) that takes you to the rainforest, past flowing waterfalls, and even to the volcanos of Volcanoes National Park.

For those seeking a truly VIP experience, it’s also possible to book Big Island in a Day as a private tour.

Captain Cook Snorkel Tour

This is one of the best organized snorkeling tours for cruise ship passengers, as it’s timed exactly to your ship’s arrival and departure time. On top of that, the tour actually starts right at the pier, so you won’t have to worry about long transportation times!

Once you meet your guide, you’ll take a small boat to Kealakekua Bay for a 1-hour snorkeling adventure in the ocean. Expect to see tropical fish, turtles, and colorful corals. And if you’re lucky, you might also be able to spot Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins from the boat!

Captain Cook Snorkeling

On this Captain Cook Snorkeling excursion , you can go snorkeling and enjoy a leisurely 45-minute sail along the Kona coast. The boat leaves from Keauhou Bay, which is approximately a 20-minute drive from the cruise port. There are two different departure times (8:30 AM and 2 PM), so you can choose whichever fits you and your ship’s schedule.

We also love that snacks and meals are provided so you can indulge in traditional Hawaiian pupus after an hour of snorkeling!

Atlantis Submarine

A truly unique Big Island experience, this scenic ride on the Kona Atlantis submarine is guaranteed to delight everyone in your group. As you descend more than 100 feet below sea level, you’ll be able to see marine life up close and personal.

This tour leaves right from the pier, so you won’t have to worry about booking a taxi. And best of all, this tour is 30% cheaper than booking with your cruise ship!

Glass Bottom Reef Tours

You don’t have to get wet in order to experience the beautiful Hawaiian coastline! Hop onboard a glass bottom boat and enjoy a relaxing ride, admiring the tropical fish and colorful corals from above.

If you’re not into snorkeling, this is a great excursion as you can see underwater views and marine life. The boats also leave from the pier, which is super convenient for families or those short on time!

Kona Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the best activities to do on the Big Island in winter. From December to March, this Kona Whale Watching tour jets through the ocean on a 20-passenger power raft. A vessel like this allows you to have a close encounter with humpback whales, which you can see from the shaded cabin or open sun deck.

The boat leaves from Honokohau Marina (10 minutes north of the pier), so make sure to give yourself enough time to get there before it departs.

Captain Zodiac Whale Watching

This is another one of our favorite whale watching tours . Also leaving from Honokohau Marina, this 16-person raft offers a fast-moving and exhilarating ride through the water, where you’ll see humpback whales, dolphins, and lots of other marine creatures. You can even listen to their whale song through the onboard hydrophones, which is one of the coolest things to experience!

Tours leave three times a day, so you can choose a departure time based around your schedule.

Surf Lessons

Surfing is a quintessential Hawaiian activity – and something you can learn how to do while in Kona! Lessons are conducted by Hawaii Lifeguard Surf Instructors and held at Kahalu’u Beach Park, a 15-minute drive from Kailua Pier.

Group lessons are with 3 or 4 students and include classroom coaching as well as 2 hours on the water. Private 1-on-1 lessons are also available and may be better suited for those who want more flexibility in terms of class start time.

For even more to do in Kona, check out The 21 Best Things to do in Kona (+ tips to know before you go) and our 5 Best Sandy Beaches in Kona (all within 30 minutes of Kailua-Kona)

Interested in more exciting shore excursions on the Big Island? We have the full list of activities in our Cruising Hawaii Guide.

Big Island Shore Excursions FAQ

Where do big island cruise ships dock for shore excursions.

Most cruise ships make two stops on the Big Island – in Kailua-Kona and Hilo.

The historic town of Kailua-Kona was once a thriving fishing village, although it’s now a popular resort area due to its sunny weather and abundance of outdoor activities. While it can feel a bit touristy (lots of bars and souvenir shops), it’s still a fun area to walk around and sightsee. The Kailua Pier is located right in town, which you can reach by taking a tender from the ship to shore.

The Port of Hilo is a bit outside of town, as it is mostly used as a cargo facility. It’s approximately a 7-minute drive from downtown and a 4-minute drive or 20-minute walk to the Lili-uokalani Gardens (where many excursions depart from). If you’re renting a car for the day, there’s also a free shuttle that takes you from the dock to the airport.

Can I get picked up by taxi, Uber, or Lyft from the dock for my Big Island cruise excursion?

Yes – you can take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft from the dock to wherever you need to go on the Big Island. You may also choose to rent a car (although this can be more expensive and/or time-consuming since you’ll have to get to the airport or satellite office).

We have more details about booking a rental car, taxi, or other types of transportation in our Cruising Hawaii Guide .

Do tour operators offer pickup at the dock?

In our experience, there are quite a few tour options that include transportation to and from the cruise ship dock. When booking with the tour operator, make sure to select the cruise ship pickup option. If this isn’t available online, we suggest calling the tour operator to provide your details for the pickup.

If your tour does not include transportation, you’ll need to take a taxi or ride share to your tour’s meeting point.

What should I know about booking tours in Hawaii?

Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when booking your tour on the Big Island (or in Hawaii in general):

• Don’t forget to tip your guide. For most guided tours, you can tip $10 to $20 per person, although feel free to give what you feel comfortable with based on your experience. Most tips are accepted in cash or via Venmo.
• Because of Hawaii’s temperamental weather, it’s possible for tours to get canceled due to bad weather. Tour operators will usually notify you in advance if this happens, but you can always call them if you’re concerned. Refunds for operator cancellations are standard.
• If you’re taking a boat tour, make sure to bring or take motion sickness medication if you’re prone to it!
• Make sure to check the age restrictions of your exact tour. While most tours have a minimum age of at least 5 years old, others may be older or younger.

Related reads: Is There a Best Time to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii? Yes…and here’s when The Best Time to Cruise Hawaii (Clouds, Crowds, and Cost) The 10 Best Big Island Farm Tours You Won’t Want to Miss The 6 Best Big Island Luaus by Location (2023)

We hope you have a better idea of how to plan your day on the Big Island. For more information, check out our Cruising Hawaii Guide for all the details, tips, and tricks to make your stop a memorable one!

Add the  Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary  to your cart with coupon code  CRUISE  to save $7. If you’re arriving early, staying after your cruise, or your cruise has Honolulu as a port of call, then the 7 self-guided excursion days in the Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary (Honolulu) are a must!

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Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Coastal connection & waterfront views, ketchikan (ward cove), alaska.

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Cruise the sheltered waters of the Tongass Narrows and observe the boundless natural beauty on the way to Ketchikan. This alternative means of reaching downtown offers express boarding, allowing you to bypass the long lines often associated with other modes of transportation. Ambient music on board will set the mood and coffee and donuts will be served, but majestic scenery is the real attraction of cruising versus driving from the pier at Ward Cove. Along the way, you will pass uninhabited islands, densely forested shorelines and countless boats – both recreational and commercial – as the waterway is part of the Alaska Marine Highway and the Inside Passage. You may even see floatplanes taking off and landing with splash in the harbor. Be sure to look for wildlife such as sea lions and bald eagles. You may even spot a humpback whale breaching the water’s surface.

• Cruise to Ketchikan instead of driving and enjoy spectacular scenery along the way. • Admire the natural beauty that comes right to the edge of Ketchikan’s city limits. • Look for wildlife such as sea lions in the Tongass Narrows and bald eagles overhead.

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Share this article, stay updated, explore the beauty of national parks on your next cruise.

It’s National Park Week, which means it’s a great time to highlight the breathtaking beauty and sightseeing treasures of parks throughout the U.S. From the magnificent glaciers of Alaska to the giant redwoods of California to the glistening beaches of the Virgin Islands, you’ll find plenty of park charm as you dive into nature during your cruise vacation. Set sail with us as we highlight some of them below:

Glacier Bay National Park in Alaska

When you cruise to the Great Land with Holland America Line, you’ll see more Alaska glaciers than with any other cruise line. Whether you’re looking to explore them by sea, land or air, we can take you there.

Get a close-up view from our perfectly sized ships. Trek across a glacier on a guided hike. Take off on a thrilling tour to soak up aerial views of icy giants. It doesn’t matter if you’re sailing along the shore or embarking on an unforgettable shore excursion – either way, you’ll experience the best of Alaska’s glaciers, including those in Glacier Bay National Park. Accessible only by air or sea, you’ll have local park rangers guiding your experience as you watch for wildlife throughout the day in Glacier Bay on an Alaska cruise.

Denali National Park in Alaska

We love Alaska so much that we couldn’t help but spotlight another incredible site. If you want to experience the wonders of Alaska wilderness, you won’t want to miss Denali National Park.

Marvel at rugged mountains, abundant wildlife and North America’s tallest peak. Denali means “the high one” in the native language of the Athabascans. This is certainly fitting since it towers above surrounding lush landscapes at more than 20,000 feet. Consider embarking on an unforgettable experience in Denali on one of our Alaska cruisetours .

Redwoods National Park in California

If you embark on a Pacific Coast cruise with us, consider venturing out to Redwoods National Park. Immerse yourself in an enchanting experience as you bear witness to towering trees, some of which are over 360 feet and more than 2,000 years old.

Standing among these giants is quite humbling and will leave you feeling awestruck as you hike through the park’s trails lined with ferns. Fun fact: Redwoods can absorb 160 gallons of water per day.

Everglades National Park in Florida

Stopping in cruise ports in South Florida? Consider an adventure in Everglades National Park, home to one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Spanning 1.5 million acres, you could spot manatees, alligators and many different kinds of birds.

The Everglades are home to more than 350 species of birds throughout its terrain. It’s also the largest subtropical wilderness of its kind in the U.S. Many visitors explore the area on an airboat ride for guided tours.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Say aloha to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you’ll discover towering volcanoes whose eruptions have modified the landscape and become home to unique animal species and plants.

Every year, nearly two million people visit the park to witness these volcanic giants in person. Located on “the Big Island,” Hawaii’s UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the summit and section of the southeast flank of Mauna Loa and nearly a third of Kilauea. In their entirety, these two volcanoes make up the greatest volcanic area on the planet. They’re sacred to Native Hawaiian culture. When visiting during your Hawaii cruise vacation, you may also want to catch a glimpse of the Holei Sea Arch, an iconic and dramatic rock formation that has been shaped by wind and water.

Virgin Islands National Park in St. John

Are sandy beaches your kind of paradise? Virgin Islands National Park is a tropical paradise recognized for its beautiful beaches, lush forests and colorful reefs. Cinnamon Bay should definitely top your list for a day of swimming in clear waters, snorkeling beneath the surface and soaking up the sun on its powdered sand.

Whether you’re hiking trails, kayaking near the shore, or kicking back on the beach during your Caribbean cruise , you’ll quickly experience why this national park is unlike any other.

Acadia National Park in Maine

When you visit Acadia National Park, you’ll notice a dramatic landscape from cliffs to enchanting forests. The park spans across much of Mount Desert Island. Whether you love hiking, biking or other outdoor park activities, Acadia National Park could very well top your list for places to visit in Maine on a Canada and New England cruise .

The wonders of national parks await you on your next Holland America Line cruise. What are some of your favorite parks to visit? Share in the comments below.

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The best time to cruise to alaska in 2024.

Plan your bucket list adventure to explore the extraordinary beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska

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Alaska's astounding beauty and vast wilderness are unlike any other destination in the U.S. – and even in the world. While you can plan land-based trips to the state, many of Alaska's majestic snowcapped mountains, pristine forests, glacial waterways and abundant wildlife are in remote locations, only reachable by plane or by boat. That's just one of the many reasons why Alaska is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world.

If you're ready to stop dreaming and start planning a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land, here are tips on the best times to cruise Alaska.

Best Overall Time: Shoulder Seasons

Best time for warmer weather, best time for wildlife viewing, best time for salmon fishing, best time for the northern lights, best time for shore excursions.

If you want to score a deal and have fewer crowds, travel during the shoulder seasons: May and September. In these months, cruise fares are typically lower and ships are not as full, offering more cabin availability. However, with changes in the global climate bringing more moderate temperatures to Alaska, and the cruise season now extending into April and October, cruisers can also expect to find deals in April and October. There will be fewer sailings to choose from, but you may find lower pricing and avoid the peak-season crowds on the ship and in the ports.

In addition, select shore excursions may be available at a discount in the spring and fall. If you're planning on exploring Alaska on your own before or after your cruise, you'll also find cheaper hotel rates at the beginning or end of the cruise season.

Alaska's weather can change dramatically, especially the further north you go, no matter the month or season. While the weather may not be as predictable in April as in the middle of summer, Alaska can be beautiful in springtime with temperatures in the mid-40s, according to Tyler Hickman, senior vice president of Icy Strait Point, an Alaska Native-owned port in Hoonah and a port of call in Southeast Alaska. Hickman says there are long stretches of sunny days and crisp, clear evenings, offering the opportunity for late-season viewing of the northern lights . He also adds that April is one of the favorite times of year for local Alaskans.

If you're interested in cruising to Alaska in April, Norwegian Cruise Line has a few options, including weekly sailings on Norwegian Bliss beginning April 6. The line also offers Alaska itineraries through the end of October. Other lines sailing the extended season in Alaska in late April include Princess Cruises , Holland America Line , Royal Caribbean International , Carnival Cruise Line , UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions.

If you prefer to travel in the fall, early October temperatures are usually in the 50s, while the end of the month brings snow in the higher elevations. The days are longer and there are no crowds, so it may be an ideal time to visit if you're not interested in the summer outdoor experiences. Norwegian, Holland America and Seabourn Cruise Line offer sailings in October.

Read: The Best Alaska Cruise Deals

If you'd prefer warmer weather for your cruise, the summer season in Alaska runs from mid-May to mid-September. During that period, daytime temperatures typically range from 60 to 80 degrees, though they can drop into the 40s overnight. You can expect to have between 16 to 24 hours of daylight in the warmer season. May is considered the driest month, with around a 25% chance of precipitation, but the rain becomes more frequent throughout the summer.

Alaska.org, a website run by local Alaskans that provides travel information and recommendations, advises that the best time to visit in summer is from June 15 to July 15. This 30-day period is regarded as the peak season for warm, dry weather – and it's the perfect time for outdoor activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing and hiking. If you want to experience the most "midnight sun," plan to cruise a few weeks before or after the summer solstice – the longest day of the year – which falls on June 20 in 2024.

Come September, the days are generally shorter, rainier and cooler – but not always. You might get lucky with some unseasonably warm days amid the beautiful fall foliage ; as a bonus, September also means no bugs and fewer crowds.

If you have school-age children, you'll probably need to travel midsummer, during peak season. However, if you're flexible on dates, there's really no bad time to visit this magical destination. Mountain peaks shrouded in clouds or misty days cruising Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in late April are as beautiful as sunny days hiking through Tongass National Forest or whale watching on an excursion out of Icy Strait Point in July.

Read: The Best Places to Visit in Alaska

According to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, one of the top destinations on the Inside Passage itinerary, wildlife viewing is possible year-round, especially if you have your binoculars at hand. When you're not watching for turquoise ice calving in the bay from the glaciers, you might see humpback whales as long as 65 feet or black and brown bears up to 10 feet tall – as well as orcas, harbor and Dall's porpoises, sea otters, harbor seals, mountain goats, sea lions, seabirds, and bald eagles soaring overhead. And that's just what you can view from the ship.

During cruises through the park, rangers board the ships to offer commentary and information about the marine and terrestrial wildlife. They also help spot whales or other animals along the way. One of the highlights while cruising slowly through the park is to go outside on the bow of the ship – or even out onto your veranda – to listen to the incredible silence of this otherworldly place. You may hear nothing at all, or perhaps you'll be treated to the sounds of birds in the distance or the swoosh from a whale's blowhole before it dives down below the water's surface.

It's possible to view certain animals and marine life throughout the year, according to Hickman. "Whale sightings are consistent from May through September, with fewer occurring in April and October as they migrate from or to Hawaii for the winter," he says, adding: "Even on a foggy day when you can't see the whales, you can still hear them and feel their presence – and that's almost as incredible as seeing them from a ship or along the coastline."

If you're interested in spotting brown bears, here is Hickman's advice: "Bear sightings in the spring will depend on the snowpack and when they are leaving hibernation. This year we had very good bear viewing along the Spasski River starting in May when the coastal brown bears emerged from hibernation."

He adds, "They feed on the grass of the valley and eat skunk cabbage roots in May and early June. As the berries start to emerge in June, it holds many of the same bears, and as we get into mid-July, the salmon start heading upstream. There is a constant food source from May through September at Spasski. Many of the other bear viewing areas do not have the same features we have, and it leads to people thinking that bears are only around when fish are in the rivers."

Chichagof Island – the location of Hoonah and Icy Strait Point – was given the nickname "Bear Island" by National Geographic. The island boasts one to two brown bears per square mile, making it one of the largest brown bear populations in the world. Hickman says you're nearly guaranteed to see bears on one of Icy Strait Point's bear-watching tours. Icy Point Strait also offers whale watching adventures and other treks into the wilderness.

Alaska.org points to May through September as the best time for wildlife viewing, though you can spot some animals year-round, like moose or orcas. The website also advises that fly-in bear viewing starts in May but is at its best in July.

Looking to book a cruise to see Alaska's wildlife? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

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If you are an avid angler – or just want to watch the bears fish for their supper – then visit Alaska during the peak salmon runs, from May to September. King salmon season begins in May and goes through the end of July. The silver salmon run lasts from July up until the end of November. Red salmon are available between mid-June and mid-August, while you can catch pink and chum salmon in the brief window from mid-July to mid-August.

If you prefer halibut or just want to get out on the ocean, the best time for this wild Pacific species is from May to September. You can also seek out many other river and ocean species, such as rainbow trout, arctic char and northern pike. Cruise lines offer fishing excursions, or you can arrange for a private or group charter in an Alaskan town like Ketchikan.

If you want to see brown bears during the salmon run, book a bear-viewing excursion in one of the ports, such as Icy Strait Point. Or, extend your trip by combining a visit to Katmai National Park and Preserve and the renowned Brooks River with a stay at Brooks Lodge. Brooks Falls is the site for iconic photos of bears catching salmon that are jumping over the falls, and you may be able to view the bears feasting in salmon season when the property is open, from June through mid-September. The lodge is accessible by floatplane from King Salmon. You can also add a flyover tour during your stay to see the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, an area in southern Alaska transformed by ash from the 1912 Novarupta-Katmai volcanic eruption.

Aurora season – the best time to see the northern lights in Alaska – runs from mid-August to mid-April. While some passengers cruising the Inside Passage may catch a glimpse of the phenomenon in late summer and early fall, it's not guaranteed. As southeast Alaska typically has more precipitation and clouds since it's a temperate rainforest, you likely won't find optimal conditions for aurora viewing here.

Your chances to see the lights are better the further north you go, so you may want to look at booking a cruisetour: a land and sea package that's usually offered by some of the major cruise lines from May through September. These combined trips generally include the cruise, overnight accommodations in lodges, railway journeys and motorcoach travel between destinations.

With these tours, you'll be able to visit the vast landscape of Alaska, where you can explore cities like Anchorage and Fairbanks or spend time in Denali National Park and Preserve – and you'll have a better chance to view the northern lights. Lines that offer cruisetours include Norwegian, Celebrity Cruises , Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean.

Since 2024 is projected to be one of the best years to view the aurora borealis in Alaska, you might want to extend your trip to venture above the Arctic Circle or into Alaska's interior for a prime viewing opportunity. Fairbanks and the Arctic region are under the auroral oval, which is where the northern lights activity is concentrated. You can watch the forecast for the aurora borealis online at Explore Fairbanks' Aurora Tracker and the Geophysical Institute's Aurora Forecast .

Read: The Top Places to See the Northern Lights

Some of the excursions offered on an Alaskan cruise may be the most expensive tours you've seen on a ship, but they're also probably some of the coolest things you've ever thought about doing while on vacation.

Note that the probability of a tour being canceled for weather is almost the same for all tours offered between April and October, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Some of the more extreme tours, however, may not be available early or late in the season. If you want the best chance for optimal weather, consider the advice from Alaska.org and book your cruise between mid-June and mid-July.

If you're looking at splurging on a bucket list adventure while in Skagway – like Alaska Shore Tours' flightseeing helicopter adventure, which includes a dog-sledding experience on a glacier – you should check to make sure it's available the month you'll be cruising. This particular tour may not be open for booking before May or after September due to the conditions for the sled dogs.

Another over-the-top excursion dependent on optimal weather conditions is the Heli-Hike and Rail Adventure that begins in Skagway. This tour includes a helicopter ride from town that flies over glaciers and mountains, then drops you off for a roughly 5-mile guided hike to view Laughton Glacier and learn about the natural history of the area. After the hike, you'll board the White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad at Glacier Station for the scenic journey through the mountains back to Skagway.

If you're interested in the Misty Fjords Flightseeing tour in Ketchikan, this thrilling ride is also best on a clear day. This Alaskan bush plane tour soars over the Misty Fjords National Monument, which has more than 2 million acres of pristine lakes, waterfalls, ancient forests and snowcapped mountains.

Tours that include activities like mountain climbing or navigating suspension bridges might also be best when done on a sunny day. The prime time for wildlife viewing and fishing, as mentioned above, will depend on what animals you're interested in seeing and which species of fish you want to catch.

The ship's excursion desk, local guides or tour providers can offer the best advice on how to plan your activities. No matter which tours you opt to take, be prepared for the ever-changing weather patterns by wearing layers – and make sure to bring a waterproof rain jacket. Before booking, you should check the individual tour operator's cancellation and refund policy.

Read: The Best Alaska Tours

The Bottom Line

If you're flexible as to when you can travel to Alaska, you may be able to take advantage of lower pricing, travel incentives and added perks in the shoulder seasons – and you'll have fewer crowds than in the busy summer months.

If your goal is to view wildlife, then most of the cruise season, especially from May to September, will offer ample opportunities to see bears, humpbacks whales, bald eagles and other amazing animals – depending on the itinerary and excursions you choose. You'll also be able to catch Alaska's prized salmon throughout much of the cruise season.

And if extreme adventures are going to be the highlight of your vacation, then be sure to check with the tour providers to make sure your top picks are offered when you're planning to travel. Not all tour providers operate the full seven months of the season.

No matter when you decide to visit, a cruise to The Great Land will be one of the most memorable vacations of your lifetime.

Planning a cruise to see Alaska? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times on land trips and by ship to seek year-round outdoor adventure, view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• Do You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

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Princess Cruises and Fincantieri Announce to Postpone Delivery of Star Princess

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MONFALCONE, Italy, (April 19, 2024) – Princess Cruises and ship builder Fincantieri today announced the mutual decision to postpone the delivery of the next Sphere Class ship, Star Princess.

Following a comprehensive review of the remaining construction milestones, both parties have elected to adjust the ship's delivery date from July 29, 2025 to September 26, 2025, which will result in the cancellation of the nine inaugural sailings.

“Despite our collective dedication and relentless pursuit to deliver the ship in late July, it has become evident that additional time is required to ensure the Star Princess is delivered to the highest standards expected by our guests,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises.

The new inaugural sailings of Star Princess will sail roundtrip from Barcelona and include an 11-day Mediterranean voyage on October 4, 2025, and a 7-day Mediterranean voyage on October 15, 2025, that precede a 14-day transatlantic crossing to Fort Lauderdale on October 22, 2025 for the ship’s first Caribbean season. These three new cruises will open for sale on April 30, 2024.

Guests who are booked on any of the impacted voyages will be given three options: book any Princess cruise worldwide, including aboard the new Star, sister ship Sun Princess, or any other Princess ship.

Guests who elect to rebook will receive future cruise- and onboard-credits depending on the cruise they select.  Guests will also have the option to cancel and receive a full refund of the cruise fare.

Princess will protect travel agent commissions on all bookings that have been paid in full.

Star Princess is the second in the new Sphere Class of ships for Princess. Sister ship Sun Princess, built by Fincantieri in Monfalcone, debuted in February and is hailed as the next level Love Boat featuring the iconic and elegant structural lines Princess is known for, while delivering an evolution of the brand with new eye-catching architectural spectacles like The Dome, the cruise industry’s first geodesic feature on the top deck, and The Sphere, the suspended glass Sphere Piazza at the center of the cruise ship.

More details on both Sphere Class ships can be found at  www.princess.com/sunprincess .

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About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

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