american hawaii cruises constitution

SS Independence 1951-2001 and SS Constitution 1951-1995

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With Reuben Goossens

Maritime Historian, Cruise‘n’Ship Reviewer & Author

The start of a new Trans-Atlantic Era

SS Independence, 23,719 GRT , and the 23,754 GRT , SS Constitution where built for the American Export Lines to operate on the US Mediterranean service. She was constructed in yard 1618 of the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, Quincy Mass USA. She was launched on June 3, 1950 and completed January 1951.

Her superb slightly modified counter stern

Above: SS Independence seen in the mid fifties prior the rebuild

From the author’s collection

1 - SS Independence :

SS Independence departed on her maiden voyage, being a cruise to the Mediterranean , on February 11. On April 12 she departed her first liner voyage from New York to Genoa , later the route was changed to New York to Naples .

SS Independence is seen here departing New York on her maiden voyage

Authors’ private collection

Item & Photograph © 2008 Marco Farr

The envelope above and below was sent to Joe Farr who was the Chief Engineer for American Export Lines for many years 1951. It was mailed at sea from the maiden voyage of the SS Independence. The signature, Hugh Switzer , is that of the first captain of the Independence , a close friend of my parents. Joe Farr eventually became Secretary-Treasurer of the Brotherhood of Marine Officers, the officers' union of American Export Lines. This item and images were kindly provided by his daughter, Margo Farr .

The sleek SS Independence seen later in 1951

2 - SS Constitution .

Launched on September 16, 1950, SS Constitution was built in yard 1619 next to her sister. She was completed in June 1951 and departed one her maiden voyage on June 25. Passenger accommodations consisted of 295 First Class, 375 Cabin Class, and 330 Tourist Class passengers.  

SS Constitution looking simply stunning,

Dimensions : Length: 208m – 682ft. Width: 27.2m – 89.2ft. Draught: 30.2ft. Propulsion: Two sets of DR Geared Steam Turbines . Twin Screw. Service Speed 22.5 knots.

The crew of the SS Constitution

From the author’s private collection

Grace Kelly Sails on the SS Constitution

The elegant looking SS Constitution seen at Tenerife in the early 50’s

Photo: Tenerife Port Authorities

On April 4, 1956, Grace Kelly and fifty of her family, bridesmaids, and her poodle boarded the SS Constitution at New York ’s Pier 84 for her voyage to her Prince and new homeland. In addition it is said that she had over eighty pieces of luggage. Even though around 400 reported applied to sail on this voyage the vast majority was turned away and only a few were permitted to join the ship. Thousands of people saw the ship off as she sailed for eight days across the Atlantic to Monaco where she had to anchor just outside of the harbour. Prince Rainiers yacht the “ Deo Juvante II ” was sent out to the ship to bring Grace ashore. As Grace Kelly stepped ashore from Rainier ’s yacht well over 20,000 local’s and tourists were there to welcome Grace Kelly ashore!

Eight days later Prince Rainier the 3rd i and Grace Patricia Kelly were married in a civil ceremony in the throne room at the Palace in Monaco , which was a requirement by law of the land. However the very next day the grand ceremonial wedding took place in the Cathedral. In her “ Helen Rose ” wedding gown made with twenty-five yards of silk taffeta and one hundred yards of silk net, and some 125-year-old lace and thousands of pearls, Grace and Rainier married in Monaco ’s grand Cathedral. Her wedding ring had a huge 10 Karat diamond, Princess Grace’s wedding was considered one of the most a spectacular events and was shown in movie real’s around the world. After the wedding there was a garden party at the Royal Palace , which was attended by Grace’s family and many Hollywood friends. To welcome their new Princess the people of Monaco gave her a Rolls Royce, a diamond necklace with earrings to match. By 5PM Grace and Rainier had left for their honeymoon on Rainier 's luxurious yacht. Actress Grace Kelly was now officially - Her Serene Highness Princess Grace of Monaco !

 Grace on board the Constitution just prior departure with the media taking their final photographs

 Media photo – source unknown *See Photo Notice at bottom of the page

Grace Kelly and the Captain whilst the ship is at sea

Media photo – source unknown *See Photo Notice at bottom of the page

Grace Kelly on board SS Constitution

Having arrived in Monaco , Grace and Prince Rainer leave his private yacht and come ashore

Media photo – source unknown *See Photo Notice at bottom of the page

In honour of Grace Kelly ’s voyage on the Constitution, later a room on Promenade Deck was named the “Princess Grace Room,” and it was located between the Lounge and Showroom.

The rebuilding

SS Constitution seen after the rebuild of 1959

In 1959, both ships were sent to Newport New, where their forward superstructure was moved 22 feet forward and lifted up by one deck, in order to increase First Class passenger capacity by more than 100 berths. Sadly, the reconstruction changed the previously well-balanced, graceful look, especially with the loss of half of the glass enclosed promenade deck and the added height forward. Accommodations were now listed as 484 First Class, 350 Cabin Class, and 254 Tourist Class passengers.

SS Independence is seen here after the Isbrandtsen Company acquired both ships in 1960

In 1960 the controlling interest was acquired by Isbrandtsen Co. Inc New York. During their Hey-Day’s they movies were made onboard, with such stars as Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr, and many others for that matter. They also carried high profile passengers such as President Harry Truman, Alfred Hitchcock, Walt Disney, even King Saud. Both ships continued on the Mediterranean run, however, like most Trans-Atlantic liners of the day, passenger numbers dropped and the service was suspended in 1967.

Two fine photographs by Robert (Bob) Griffin

Robert (Bob) was the Athletics & Sports Director on the SS Independence on one cruise in 1962 and again later on the SS Atlantic in 1965/66

 SS Independence at anchor off Madeira as tenders takes passengers ashore

Photo by & © Bob Griffin

SS Independence – No this man does not walk on water, he is standing on a tender heading for Madeira

Itinerary of the SS Independence cruise ex New York - September 14 to October 5, 1962

Provided by & © Bob Griffin

The SS Independence is seen here backing away from her New York pier on October 5, 1963

Photograph taken by Herb Frank - From the Rich Turnwald collection

On March 12, 2009 I received an interesting email from Tracey Oliver from Orlando , Fl, in regard to her voyage on the SS Independence and I thought it was interesting enough to place online!

“I was online trying to get some information about the SS Independence when I found your website. I have enjoyed reading all of it. I wanted to share with you a story that happened to me when I sailed on the ship in 1965. I was a little girl (8 yrs. old) travelling with my parents and three younger sisters in the summer of 1965. My father was an Army Captain in the US Army and had been transferred to Athens , Greece and we sailed on the SS Independence for his transfer to Greece . I remember our voyage fondly and really enjoyed most of our trip. We caught the tail end of a hurricane that made a few days of our cruise very rough. I remember trying to walk down hallways while keeping my arms out so I wouldn’t slam into the walls. Also at our dinner table the chairs would be sliding to and fro as the ship rocked back and forth. My Mom and I were seasick for a few days until the seas quieted down.

There was one particular memorable occasion that happened to me whilst on the cruise when mother allowed me to take two of my sisters to see a movie while on the ship. Before the movie started there was a Disney cartoon shown. When the cartoon was first starting they showed a little round picture of Mr. Walt Disney. We watched the cartoon and then the movie. When it was over the lights came back on and everyone stood up to exit the theatre. In the row in front of us was a man and a lady and I was so surprised when I recognized him as Mr. Walt Disney since I had just seen his picture in the cartoon. I was too shy to say anything to him and I whispered to my little sisters to “look that is Mr. Walt Disney.” They just laughed at me and didn’t believe me. I later told my mother and I think she thought I was confused or crazy. To my delight my mother found out before our cruise ended that indeed Mr. Walt Disney and his wife were on our cruise taking a vacation to Italy . I then happily told my sisters “I told you it was him.” 

I read in your information about him being one of the famous people to have travelled on the SS Independence. I gladly verify that he was on that ship. Ironically, for the last 8 years I have lived in Orlando , Florida and have told lots of people my story about seeing Mr. Disney in person.

I believe he died of lung cancer within 1-2 years of my seeing him. That time on the SS Independence was very exciting and the start of my love of travel and of a life of travel for the next 40+ years. Thanks for your info about such a great ship.”

SS Independence is seen at St Thomas in 1965 together with another ship of the fleet - SS Atlantic

Photo by & © Robert (Bob) Griffin

The Independence seen in her last year, before the failed “Fugazi” venture, and was then laid up

Photographer unknown – Please see photo notes at bottom of page

In 1968, both ships were placed on full time cruise duties … But times were changing!

1 - SS Independence was chartered to the American Travel Agency, Diner’s Club/Fugazi who was going to operate her under the name of “Go-Go Cruises” describing her as a one class FunShip. She was repainted white with a massive sun burst, with Jean Harlow ’s eyes in the centre, and the long sunbursts, stretched along the hull, as well as pointing up to the funnels. This look according to many was hardly suitable for a ship of her standing, and it was considered rather unbecoming for the old girl. However, this venture soon failed and she was laid up in Baltimore on March 13, 1969.

SS Independence seen during her Fugazi “Funship” months in 1968

Photographer © MR. Bill Chefalas AIBD

Please Note : To read more about transformation of the SS Independence into the “FunShip” by Mr. Bill Chefalas, please click “Page Six” via the Index at the bottom of the page.

2 - SS Constitution cruised on for just a few more months before she was laid up on September 9, 19 68 at Jacksonville . Isbrandtsen decided to place both ships on the market.

Atlantic Far East Line

In January 1974, both the Independence and Constitution were sold to the Atlantic Far East Line Inc., Monrovia , being part of the massive C.Y. Tung group. The Independence was renamed Oceanic Independence and after a refit she commenced cruising, with a new passenger capacity of 950 passengers. However, the Constitution, renamed Oceanic Constitution, was laid up at Hong Kong on August 4, 1974 . Oceanic Independence continued to cruise until she was also laid up at Hong Kong on January 17, 1976 . In November that year there were rumours that she was to be sold to Shannon SA, of Panama , but, this did not eventuate. Oceanic Independence remained laid up and was renamed Sea Luck I.

American Hawaii Cruises

As they were no longer American flagged ships, C.Y. Tung was not able to operate them within American waters. However, in 1979 both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives approved their return to the States. In 1980, C.Y. Tung transferred the Oceanic Independence to their newly established; US based American Hawaii Cruises Inc. After extensive repairs and a refit at the Kawasaki Dockyard Co. Ltd, Kobe Japan , Oceanic Independence now accommodated 750 one-class passengers, and she was listed as being 20,220 GRT .

CY Tung ’s American Hawaii Cruises SS Oceanic Independence seen in 1981

Photographer unknown – *See Photo Notice at bottom of the page

Oceanic Independence departed on her maiden cruise in June, 1980, operating 7-Day cruises around the Hawaiian Islands of Honolulu. On September 24, 1981, she sustained minor damage off the coast of Nawiliwili , however passengers were safely taken from the ship and flown home. In October she was taken to San Francisco for repairs and soon returned to service. In 1982, American Hawaii Cruises Inc became part of the American Global Line, Inc, and to the joy of American’s she became the SS Independence once again.

In 1983 this postcard was released after her name was changed back to SS Independence

Author’s private collection

With Oceanic Independence having been successful in 1980, SS Oceanic Constitution was refitted in Taiwan and departed for Honolulu with a passenger capacity of 1,088, and was listed at 20,199 GRT .

SS Independence and Constitution seen berthed together in Honolulu

Oceanic Constitution was transferred to the American Global Line, Inc, and was re-christened by Princess Grace of Monaco under her original name. SS Constitution commenced cruising out of Honolulu in June 1982. In 1984, her passenger numbers was reduced to 800. Both ships were officially reregistered in Honolulu in 1987.

SS Constitution in Honolulu

Photograph by Steven Bingman

SS Constitution at anchor

In 1994 Independence was withdrawn from service and she headed to Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry dock Company for an extensive refit. However, in April 1996 American Hawaii Cruises decided to retire the forty six year old SS Constitution, which they said was due to her high running costs and renovations required. She was finally laid up due the company’s financial problems. During her lay-up many of her parts were taken and were used on Independence .

SS Constitution seen laid up at Portland in 1996

On November 5, 1997, Constitution departed Portland where she had been laid up, under tow by the Chinese Ocean going tug De Da. Twelve days after departure, Whilst under tow heading for an Asian breakers yard, located about 700 miles north of Hawaii, Constitution started to take on water, and due to he imminent sinking the tug cut her loose. On November 17, 1997, the once magnificent Constitution slipped beneath the waves and into history. I personally feel that seemed a better end for this fine ship than hundreds of blowtorches cutting her up!

SS Independence seen after her last refit

SS Independence Sails on

After her demise of the SS Constitution, her older sister SS Independence became the last US built ocean liner to sail under the American flag. Celebrations were held on board during Independence 's 1,000th voyage in August 1999. A section of her mahogany handrail was especially removed and sliced into sections as a “commemorative souvenir.” This unique relic from one of America's great ships m easures 2 +" by 7" and was fitted with a brass plaque which reads, “Voyage 1000, S.S. INDEPENDENCE, August 14, 1999 ” and the author is the proud owner of one of these rare items.

A piece of SS Independence mahogany handrail removed on August 14, 1999 and provided to the author

Owned by author

Bankruptcy - The end of an era & What of the Ship?

On October 19, 2001 , American Global Line, owners of the American Hawaii Line declared bankruptcy. On October 30, 2001 the grand lady SS Independence departed Honolulu at 1300 hrs sailing for San Francisco . On November 8, she sailed past San Francisco ’s Pier 39 at 10:30 am . American Maritime Historian Peter Knego noted; that “the fireboat Phoenix greeted and accompanied Independence from the Golden Gate Bridge to the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.” The SS Independence was now the property of the US Maritime Administration, docked was at the former Alameda Naval Station. On January 25, 2002 : she was moved to San Francisco ’s pier 50.

On March 5, 2002 , SS Independence departed assisted by two tugs heading for Suisun Bay , where the US reserve fleet is located. However, she was returned to her San Francisco berth due to her mast was damaged whilst going under the Carquinez Bridge . The top of the mast snapped off just above the radar. Finally on April 12, the Independence was finally laid up in Suisuin Bay together with other US mothballed vessels of the reserve fleet.

Asian (Malaysian Genting) Casino Lords, owners of Star Cruises & NCL

Slow destruction of the SS Independence & the SS United States!

In February 2003, came the announcement that the Independence had been sold at auction for US$4 million to Norwegian Cruise Line NCL, owned by the Malaysian casino/shipping giant, Genting/Star Cruises.

Then came the great promise that the SS Independence would be refitted, and the mighty SS United States rebuilt after which both ships would then sail for the Asian owned Norwegian Cruise Line's new American company, to be known as NCL America IF the US Senate and Government would permit NCL an American Cruise Company, well they did and the built and soon operated a fleet of four German built ships in Hawaii, but both American ships were neglected and rusting away!

NCL’s Press release at the time also stated: “NCL purchased the vessel (SS Independence) at federal auction from the US Maritime Administration saving her from almost certain scrapping. The potential addition of the SS Independence as a fifth vessel in NCL's US flag operation is being evaluated.”

Obviously the key word there was the word “evaluated,” which almost certainly meant that the Independence was never going to be suitable for NCL America, but she was there to serve the purpose of obtaining the American flag on the stern of their ships! After the announcement, SS Independence was moved on April 11 to the former Mare Island Naval Base in Vallejo and she was badly neglected.

SS Independence laid up at Pier 70

Photo by Larry Vanerwegen

On July 26, 2004, she was returned to San Francisco from Mare Island undertow, and was taken Pier 70. Obviously, she will be laid up for an indefinite period of time, as no work has was ever to be scheduled to done on her.

Mid 2006 Independence was quietly renamed Oceanic, for what reason was anyone’s guess? But NCL’s CEO Colin Veitch announced some time earlier that “she had deteriorated considerably” and hinted that “she could be sold for scrap,” which he later dismissed to me via an email on August 18, 2006.

Obviously, we now all know of NCL’s desire of creating a highly profitable American based cruise company has now become a reality and NCL America is in full operation, however, whilst they may have achieved their goals, the great SS United States remains laid up and is rapidly deteriorating, whilst they have now sold the SS Oceanic, ex Independence to an Indian who only buys ships for the breakers. Like the SS Norway, NCL has again betrayed America for the second time and most likely will do so again when it comes to the great SS United States.

SS United States

July 2008, I have been advised that the SS Oceanic is laid up in Dubai , but her fate is unknown. I have been told that her owners are laying low as there have been warrants out for the ship, and her owners have been talking up the idea of restoration and selling her, but personally, I do not believe a word of it, sound too much like the fables NCL told us about the Norway and she is almost gone, cut to pieces on the beach at Alang. Remember, NCL first sold the Independence having renamed her Oceanic to an in-house company, it was only then that they sold her to this Indian, who took the ship undertow and she ended up at Dubai . Her next stop can still be the beach at Alang or Chittagong ! PS: That company NCL sold the ship to was in reality an NCL arm, for their offices just happened to be right at the NCL Head Office!

January 29 : The owners of the SS Oceanic have been fined for illegally exporting the SS Oceanic, ex Independence as she contains substantial amounts of toxic waste. The two related companies were fines US$518,500. As you will read below from an article written by the EPA - Environmental Protection Agency, “Save the Classic Liners Campaign was heavily involved with warning the authorities and our American coordinator Corey Abelove and Erik James did a splendid job! Parts of the article may be read below. However, it can be read in full and a link is provided on the News Updates pages .

“In February of last year, Basel Action Network (BAN) and the “Save the Classic Liners Campaign” tipped-off the United States Environmental Protection Agency when they discovered that Global Marketing Systems, Inc. (GMS), headed up by a world famous cash-buyer of obsolete ships, Mr. Anil Sharma, had taken ownership of the SS Oceanic (former SS Independence ) and had the old passenger liner towed out of San Francisco Bay with the intent of scrapping the vessel on the beaches of South Asia. BAN demanded that the U.S. government take action to have the ship returned to a U.S. port, but the EPA claimed they lacked the authority to have the ship recalled. Nevertheless, the EPA took legal action against GMS for violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), the law which prohibits the exportation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a persistent toxic pollutant used in the paints, insulation and gasketry in older ships.”

“The toxic trade watchdog group BAN declared victory today after a U.S business involved in sending hundreds of ships to the infamous ship breaking beaches of Bangladesh and India was forced to pay $518,500 and certify that they would not undertake such actions again. BAN warned, however, that there was still ample opportunity for unscrupulous operators to exploit loopholes to export very toxic U.S. ships to the South Asian beaches where some of the world’s poorest labourers are forced to toil without adequate protections against toxic substances, asbestos, explosions and accidents. BAN is a member organization of the NGO Platform on Ship breaking, an international coalition seeking to ban beaching and unsustainable ship scrapping.”

“Soon after EPA initiated its enforcement action against Global and its sister organization Global Shipping LLC, GMS requested a new application to the Maritime Administration seeking approval to sell the vessel but changing the purpose of export from disposal to continued use of the vessel to accommodate labour workers in the Arabian Gulf area. Today, the whereabouts of the Oceanic remains uncertain at this time but so far it has not been seen in the breaking yards.”

*The above is from the EPA Environmental Protection Agency News release. For full details

visit: www.ban.org/ban_news/2009/090129_victory_declared.html

It is thought that she is currently somewhere in the  Dubai area, or at least in the Arabian Gulf region, and it is said that she is being used as a workers accommodation facility. However, her future does remain uncertain, for her owners in the past have only obtained ships mostly for Bangladeshi breakers and we are absolutely sure that NCL knew that!

An earlier piece by myself re NCL .

Sadly, there are many who believe the promises made by NCL’s chairman Colin Veitch; however, I feel that neither ship will ever sail as part of the NCL America fleet. NCL now have what they want, the cynical would say that these ships were simply a means to obtain what NCL wanted, and the last thing NCL America really needs today is two old, rusting steamships. Sadly, to date nothing has been heard of the fate of the SS Independence, a ship that was in good condition and in full operation when the company went bankrupt in 2001. To refurbish her and place her back in service would not have cost a fortune. Thus if NCL could not even do this, what hope is there for the United States , which indeed would have cost a fortune to restore and return to service. It is interesting, 1. The author received information from the US that NCL only has the United States under a lease agreement and do not actually own her, thus, she would still be owned by the Cantor Estate. 2. Several shipbrokers have the SS United States listed as being for sale, yet NCL continues with their overtures of having her, and SS Independence restored. If only ! All we need to do is look at the disgraceful way Star Cruises/NCL disposed of SS Norway, as they bypassed international toxic waste laws, by continually stating she was going to Germany for repairs and that she would return to Miami . Then, having conveniently served as an accommodation ship for workers of the Pride of America, she was sent to Port Klang Malaysia , with Star Cruises announcing that she would return to service in one form or another. Then after having been sold for scrap, but the ships being returned to Star Cruises due to an outcry in Bangladesh re her toxic waste, Star announced to the Malaysian Maritime board that she was heading for Dubai to be repaired, whilst she had already been sold to Bridgend Shipping and she was heading to a breakers yard at Alang India.

I believe that the Chinese Malaysian “Genting Casino Group” operators of Star Cruises, who also own NCL, who have treated the SS Independence with contempt and will treat America’s greatest liner ever built the SS United States, in a similar way. Do not trust an Asian Casino operator, NO WAY! And do not cruise with NCL, they are loosing money faster that oil prices are going up and down these days. NCL America has lost all but one of their German built ships, and now only the “ Shame (sorry Pride) of America ” continues to sail for them. However, I predict that this company will cease to exist within twelve months!

Later addition:

In mid-2006, Independence was renamed “Oceanic” amid speculation that our beloved classic liner would most likely be scrapped. Then in July 2007, NCL announced that the ship had been sold, and a little later we heard that the Oceanic had been purchased by an American company. However, there was a very strange fact when it came to this Textile Company, for they just happened to have its offices in the NCL Head Office in Florida , now would you not find this very suspicious? On February 8, 2008 the Oceanic was towed out of San Francisco Bay it was said bound for Singapore , but we all knew that her destination would soon be changed while she was enroute and she headed for to Dubai instead. Rumours had been swirling that the ship was ultimately destined for a scrap yard in India or Bangladesh, but had been stopped due to a complaint filed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency that the ship was being towed to an overseas scrap yard,

Global Marketing Systems, the last owner of Oceanic, was fined $518,500 for exporting the ship for scrap without prior removal of toxins such as asbestos and PCBs.

SS Independence’s classic bow – renamed Oceanic – she is most likely bound for the breakers?

In 2009 Oceanic was renamed the Platinum II and she departed Dubai bound for Alang under tow by a very old tug Barakhoda. As it turned out the tug lost all power and setting the Platinum II adrift some 25 km off Alang. Then another tug was sent to assist Barakhoda with its crew of nine.

It was reported in October 2009 that a ship “claiming to be the SS Platinum-II was turned away from an Alang breakers yard” but it was soon discovered that the ship was in fact the former SS Oceanic/Independence. Indian authorities alleged that she had been renamed and was supplied with falsified papers in order to evade regulations on toxic matters.

She ran aground in February 2010. In due course news came from India stated that the ship had been abandoned at Gopnath around ten miles south of Alang and that she was beginning to suffer structural cracks and would never be able to be moved. Then in March 2010 the vessel's hull cracked aft of the accommodation (roughly at one third of the length from the stern) and the entire hull was lying at an angle of about 35 degrees and soon enough mud made it into ships interior. It was decided to scrap the ship on the spot throughout 2010 and it is said that the wreck was gone by January 2011.

The Platinum II – A tragic photograph of what was once a great ship, but now this tragic vessel is close to her end

Photograph with thanks to my dear friend Peter Knego and: http://maritimematters.com/2010/06/sad-endependence/

We sincerely thank Steve Bingman for his contribution to these pages

Page One :            History of SS Independence and her sister the SS Constitution

Page Two :            Photo Page – From beginning to End

Page Three :          Deck Plans - American Export Lines

Page Four :            Deck Plan – American Hawaii Cruises

Page Five :            Photo Page of Independence /Oceanic at Pier 70 San Francisco

                           Photographs by Patrick Race & Jonathan Haeber

Page Six :              The amazing story of SS Independence’s transformation to become the

                                      Fugasi - “Go-Go Cruises” FunShip. A story by the designer Bill Chefalas .

SS Atlantic :          This delightful ship sailed with the SS Independence & Constitution from 1960 to 1967.

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This notice covers all pages , although, and I have done my best to ensure that all photographs are duly credited and that this notice is displaced on each page, that is, when a page is updated!

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SS Independence: The Complete Guide

• Early Life of the SS Independence

Aquisition by Norwegian Cruise Line

• Final Fate of the SS Independence

The SS Independence was originally launched during the heyday of ocean travel of the 1950's but was treated to more than $78 million in refurbishments from 1994 to 2001 by her various owners. The ship is one of the few major cruise ships built in the United States, having been constructed at the Bethlehem Steel Company in Quincy, Massachusetts for American Export Lines of New York. It was intended for use as a trans-Atlantic passenger liner, yet it adhered to post-World War II U.S. Navy specifications to permit rapid conversion into a troop ship, with a capacity for 5,000 men and their equipment. Those men would have really been packed into the ship since she was designed to carry about 1,100 cruise ship passengers. The vessel, as originally designed, was made entirely of non-combustible or fire-resistant materials and featured extra hull plating--and two engine rooms so that if one were damaged, the other could keep the ship moving at a relatively high speed.

Early Life of the SS Independence

The SS Independence had her maiden voyage in February 1951, sailing from New York City to the Mediterranean on a 53-day cruise that took the new ship and her passengers around the Mediterranean Sea. By the time the SS Independence returned to New York City, this voyage had clocked over 13,000 miles, and the ship had visited 22 ports of call. For the next 15+ years, the SS Independence visited the Mediterranean many times, often carrying such famous guests as President Harry S. Truman, Alfred Hitchcock, and Walt Disney. Mr. Disney loved cruising, and most Disney Cruise Line cast members (employees) think he would have loved Disney Cruise Line.

In 1974, American Export Lines sold the SS Independence to Atlantic Far East Line, and she was renamed the Oceanic Independence. The number of passengers was decreased to 950. American Hawaii Cruises bought the ship in 1980 and her passenger count was decreased to 750. By 1999, the SS Constitution had "lived" long enough to sail 1000 voyages. Until its bankruptcy in late 2001, American Hawaii Cruises' classic U.S.-flag ocean liner, the S.S. Independence, sailed exclusively around the Hawaiian Islands 12 months of the year on week-long cruises.

After the collapse of American Hawaii Cruises, the Independence sailed to the Alameda Naval Air Station in California. On March 5, 2002, her mast hit the Carquinez Bridge while being towed by four tugs. The Independence was on her way to Suisan Bay but was taken back to San Francisco for repairs. The Independence was subsequently moored in April 2002 with the Suisun Reserve Fleet in Suisan Bay, California near the USS Iowa. In February 2003, the Independence was sold at auction for $4 million to Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL).

NCL planned to add the Independence to its U.S.-flagged fleet and hoped to have the ship carrying passengers by 2004. However, the ship continued to degrade and was renamed the Oceanic in 2006 without ever sailing for NCL. In its July 2007 interim report to shareholders, Star Cruises Limited (the parent company of NCL) disclosed it had sold the Oceanic, but did not name the buyer.

Final Fate of the SS Independence

Sadly, the SS Independence made her last trip across the ocean in February 2008 when she was towed out to sea from San Francisco. In 2009, the classic ship the SS Independence was scrapped at the Alang, India ship scrapyard.

The SS Independence had a sister ship, the SS Constitution, which was built in 1951. The SS Constitution also had an interesting history, including starring roles in the I Love Lucy television series and in the tear-jerker movie, An Affair to Remember . Actress Grace Kelly sailed the SS Constitution across the Atlantis Ocean on the way to marry Prince Ranier in 1956. This classic ship was retired from service in 1995 and sank while under tow to be scrapped.

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• What Ever Happened To........???

S.S. Constitution

By Tarheelbelle , October 11, 2004 in What Ever Happened To........???

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Tarheelbelle

Whatever happened to the American Hawaii Line's S.S. Constitution? I took my first cruise on that ship and loved the line and the classic style of the ship. I had a single outside cabin with one single bed, a closet that was literally about a foot wide, and a shower that was about 18 inches in diameter! :p [Makes me greatful for the new ships' amenities!!] I had a fantastic time on that cruise!

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We went on her sister, the Independence, in August 2001. My husband and I were just saying last night that that was our favorite cruise. I'm not sure where they are now. :) -- Cheryl

StephenJohnson

She went down in 1997, while being towed off to be scrapped. No one was hurt, and no passengers were aboard. Details here and here

The Independence, which now belongs to NCL, is laid up in San Francisco.

Details here

Thanks for the information!

Wow - She was a really beautiful ship -- not in a glitzy way like today's ships, but more quietly elegant. I hope NCL uses her again. That was our teenage son's first cruise, and we had such a great time. Somehow we had our meals at the Captain's table (don't know how, because we had very inexpensive inside accommodations) with a fantastic family from New York, and we had such a great time. Cheryl

• 1 month later...

PaperSniper4

Gotcha beat. I sailed on her in 1958 from Naples to NYC. I was about 11 at the time. I remember the FOOD more than anything else! <g>

Wow! You sure do have us beat! That ship must have been really something back then, and how lucky you were to be on a cruise ship in 1958 at age 11! Not many people had the opportunity to cruise then like they do now. We loved that ship and that cruise, and part of what made it special was knowing it had a lot of history and a lot of famous people had sailed on her. I hope you have made many more happy cruise memories since then. Cheryl

Yes, I was so lucky to have had that experience. But my next cruise was not until I was married and age 43!:eek:

• 2 months later...

I took her from NYC to Naples 3/1956 on the way to my first post (Istanbul, U.S. State Dept.) The 1st passenger ship for me since 1939 and 1937 when I took the Matsonia to and the Lurline back from Honolulu. My father was Chief Steward, on the Matsonia 1935-47. I was on a troop ship Oakland to Whittier, AK in 1950, but troop ships don't count.

Chief Steward on Independence was old ship mate of my father's and so was the Chief Purser. No bar bills, no laundry bills and bartenders were told to introduce me to a single girl. They did. Francine from Nice. Almost deserted my job and got off with her ;) on the tender in Cannes. Probably wouldn't happen today.

My previous Independence post does not belong here, Sorry.

I took the Constitution from Genoa to NYC in 3/1958. As I was still single, I hooked up with another single U.S. State Dept guy going home and we hung out with 3 showgirls returning home after working the Italian Riviera during the winter. It was Voyage #100 and we hit the worst storm ever according to a crewmember that had been on her since her maiden voyage. She was also known to be top heavy and we were rolling about 20 degrees left and right. We were all dressed up in a booth in the 1st class bar watching folks trying to come in the room. If they let go of the rope, that was put up to hang on to while walking to the bar, some would fall and slip (harmlessly) clear across the dance floor. After many cocktails (they were cheaper on ship in those days then they were in your neighborhood bar, no taxes) and eating lots of free shrimp, we started singing "Nearer my God to Thee". We did that until the Purser came to us and told us to stop or we would be locked in our staterooms. It was so bad they served only salad and steaks for dinner that night and there were broken bones among passengers and crew.

Suit and tie every night, if not Tux.

No band that night either. Bands were furnished by the Meyer Davis firm in NYC then.

Wow, Sidney! That trip sounds like it was a hoot! My family and I truly loved that ship. She was so very elegant in an understated sort of way -- Not flashy like today's ships. I can only imagine what she was like back then. It sounds like you made some great memories on that voyage.

My aunt and I left NY Aug 1951 aboard USS Constitution for the first of my love of the sea voyages. We returned home six months later on Cunard"s HMS Mauretania II. I was only ten, but I knew then that I loved the sea, and would try my best to be on or near it all my life. Right now I am booked on my next transatlantic this Nov. on Brilliance of the Sea. Really can't wait.:)

• 2 weeks later...

My brother and I travelled on the Constitution in 1952. We left Naples on March 22, 1952 and arrived in New York City March 31, 1952. Our first stop was in Genoa Italy, then onto France, where more passengers embarked. The weather was calm until we passed the Gibraltar Strait. A storm with high waves greeted us as we entered the Atllantic Ocean. The weather turned cloudy and windy, and the boat was in turmoil at times. Many passengers including my brother and I became quite sea sick.

My first memory of the USA was seeing the Statue of Liberty and the skyline of New York City. We arrived at Pier 81 in Manhattan. I have been a proud American citizen and I am happy that I took the Constitution to my new home the USA ......God Bless America.

Evelina and Camillo

• 3 months later...

I sailed on the S.S. Constitution from Italy (Naples? I always thought we departed from Genoa?) to NYC in 1960. I was 6.

I wish I'd sailed on her again.

• 3 weeks later...

I came to the UNITES STATES on the S. S. Constitution. I embarked at Naples on Sunday January 20, 1957 to New York via Genoa, Cannes and Algeciras. It was the most enjoyable sailing on the ship that refused to be shredded into pieces. She now rests in the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. I still have the list of the Tourist Class Passenger list. Anybody wants to ck a name?:)

As a boy I think I was really lucky, my dad was in the Foreign Service and the only way we traveled was by ship!! :) We sailed to Spain on the SS Independence in 57, then back to the states on the same ship in 60, back to Spain on the SS Constitution. Best that I can recall I had a blast. My folks would always take me to the bingo and horse race games and Neptune must have liked me because I would always win (Drove my brother nuts)!:D

When we left Spain for the last time in 63 and we were on an Italian liner called the Vulcania. It was a really old ship built in the 20s. Mussolini used it as a troop ship for a while during WWII. Later the US seized it and used it as well. But is was a really majestic ship and the food is something I still dream about. We crossed the Atlantic in January hit some enormous storms, saw a large herd of whales and saw three submarines. For a 12 year old kid that was neat.:cool:

Ahh the memories!!!!

• 6 months later...

Hi, all. Glad to see someone wondered what ever happened to her. And Tarheelbelle, I was an entertainer when you sailed in 1985 (a member of the Sea Breeze quartet (production shows)?).

Anyway, I just had the pleasure of helping a historian (Reuben Goosens) with pictures and deck plans for his wonderful website, which discusses many past great liners:

http://www.ssmaritime.com/ss-independence-constitution.htm

I enjoyed reading everyone's stories.

We had a great, but fairly rough cruise on Constitution, Dec 84, San Francisco to Honolulu, via Los Angelses. She had been in San Francisco having her bottom scraped, and was repositioning back to the Islands.

Great ship in her day - pity she sank in Dec 97.

Her sister, Independence is still tied up down near Hunter's Point, San Francisco.

• 11 months later...

My uncle, Fred Hirst, was the Chief Engineer on the SS Constitution in the 1950's-'60's. My parents & I were passengers on the Constitution traveling from Genoa to NYC in the summer of 1961 or 1962. We were members of the Bottle Slingers Assiciation...we threw messages in a bottle over the side of the ship. I have a photo of myself on the bridge. We were given the key to the ship & I lost it. When the passengers were being tendered ashore in Barcelona, no one could find me. They thought I had gone ashore by myself, but they found me in the playroom. I enjoy the book by Wm. H. Miller about the Constitution & the Independence. The Life Magazine dated 6/27/55 has a photo of the Constitution crew on the cover. Remember the episode of Lucy being lowered onto a ship by helicopter?...that was the Constitution!

pennstateray

our 1st cruise was on the consitution out of honolulu on april 2, 1983. what a great time. far different then today's floating cities.thanks again for the info.

My first cruise was aboard the Constitution in May of '89. Fantastic cruise, and our waiter had worked at a local restaurant in my hometown. Small world!. His name was Brett Zeches.........still remember his name.........

• 4 weeks later...

italianprincess

Does anyone know how much it cost to sail on the Constitution from Italy to the US in 1951 or around that time? Is there anyway of seeing what a ticket would have looked like? My father arrived to the US in the '50's on board that ship and we were hoping to see what it looked like then and to find out how much it cost.

In reply to the costs I will guess maybe less then $500 as immigrants usually traveled 2nd class and shared a cabin with 3 other men. Ticket was maybe several sheets with the contract and details typed in on the passenger and all other information needed to cover the trip and conditions .. It could be actually much less as it was back in '51.:confused:

• 1 year later...

My family traveled from Italy to NYC on the SS Constitution in 1964 but was paid for by the Army. We have many nice photos from all the ports and we had a great time even if I was only 9 y/o. I believe this was in the month of February. We stopped in Monaco and the Island of Madeira.

God what memories. I'm sad just to find out that it's on the bottom of the sea.

Hey PaperSniper4 - don't have you beat but I think I tie you as I took the Constitution from NYC to Naples in July 1958 arriving one day before my 5th birthday. Though I was very young I still remember much about the cruise including my dad and dog being seasick almost the whole trip (my dog was kept in an outdoor kennel container on the ship's top level).

Would be wild if you took the return trip back to NYC.

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American Constitution

Cruise line American Cruise Lines

• Seattle (Washington)
• Boston (Massachusetts)
• Washington DC (USA)
• Juneau (Alaska)
• Baltimore (Maryland)

American Constitution current position

American Constitution current location is at US East Coast (coordinates 36.83591 N / -76.29581 W) cruising en route to NORFOLK,VA. The AIS position was reported 16 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of American Constitution

American Constitution current cruise is 9 days, round-trip 10 Night American Revolution Cruise . Prices start from USD 6310 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 05 Apr, 2024 and ends on 14 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of American Constitution

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

American Constitution Itineraries

American constitution review, review of american constitution.

The 2018-built MS American Constitution cruise ship is the second of American Cruise Lines fleet's "Coastal Class" boats - with sistership American Constellation (2017).

This "ocean ship" design was later modified for inland/river cruising, resulting in the company's "Modern Riverboat" fleet - American Song (2018), American Harmony (2019), American Jazz (202o), American Melody (2021), American Symphony (2022), American Serenade (2022).

History - construction and ownership

The shipowner American Cruise Lines (ACL) is the USA's largest river cruise company (headquarters in Guilford Connecticut) operational since 1991. The company specializes in cruise shipping on the USA's largest navigable inland waterways (rivers and lakes) as well as in cruises along the US East Coast, US West Coast and Florida. All ACL vessels feature some of the industry's largest passenger cabins with private balconies, spacious lounges and outdoor deck spaces, gourmet cuisine, top-quality enrichment program with many complimentary land tours and excursions, highly-personalized service by all-American staff and crew.

All ACL cruise ships are US-flagged and built by the company-owned Chesapeake Shipbuilding Yard in Salisbury (Maryland USA).

The new coastal riverboat was inaugurated in 2018. The "American Constitution" name was inspired by the oldest vessel in service of the US Navy (USS Constitution), originally commissioned by George Washington (1732-1799, the USA's first President) during his tenure as president (1789-1797).

Decks and Cabins

ACCL's American Constitution ship has 6 passenger decks (accessible via one elevator) and a total of 85 staterooms . The number of cabin categories is 9. Most of the accommodations are Balcony rooms, with floor-ceiling sliding doors leading to a private step-out veranda. There are no connecting rooms onboard.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

ACCL's American Constitution ship has a single-capacity, open-seating dining room. This is the main restaurant onboard featuring floor-ceiling windows, crystal chandeliers, classy furniture, 4- and 8-seat tables and luxury dining amenities. Most of the cuisine is American fare. The menu boasts itinerary-inspired gourmet specialties and fresh food. Breakfast is buffet-style, with made-to-order items. Lunch offers soup, choice of 3 dishes, chef's salad. Dinner offers soup, salad and 3 entrees. The wine list has a selection of domestic wines. Any dietary needs are catered for.

The ship American Constitution with full active wing stabilization caters to vacationers looking for an intimate high-end experience of a smaller vessel. Well-appointed rooms are the largest ever seen in service, with room service and tastefully furnished private balconies. Additional features include kayaks and Zodiacs that offer guests alternative ways to explore historic North American destinations.

The list of the ship's main public venues includes:

• (Deck 1) Vestibule/lobby level, Ship's Office, Dining Room Restaurant, Galley/Kitchen
• (Deck 2) Lounge/midship-starboard
• (Deck 3) Library Lounge/midship-starboard, Chesapeake Lounge/forward
• (Deck 4) Pilothouse/Wheelhouse, Upper Lounge & Library (midship-starboard), Sky Lounge (aft, with outdoor terrace seating)
• (Deck 5) Fitness Room/midship Gym, Lower Sun Deck/aft
• (Deck 6) Upper Sun Deck with outdoor seating and Mini-Golf/Putting Green

Itineraries

American Constitution itinerary program includes two new American Cruise Lines itineraries - one from the USA to New England, and the other along southeast USA's Intracoastal Waterway.

• The 10-night / 11-day "Grand New England" cruise itinerary starts in Boston MA and visits Provincetown MA, Newport RI , Martha's Vineyard MA , Kennebunkport ME, Camden ME, Bar Harbor ME ) and Rockland ME .
• The 10-night / 11-day "Grand Historic South" cruise itinerary is roundtrip from Charleston SC and visits Wilmington NC , Beaufort NC , Savannah GA , Sapelo Island GA , Jekyll Island GA , Amelia Island FL (Fernandina Beach) and Beaufort SC .
• (April 18, 2018) The 11-day "Inaugural Cruise" itinerary (themed "American Revolution Cruise" was roundtrip from Baltimore MD ) and included as call ports Norfolk VA , Williamsburg VA, Yorktown VA , Washington DC, Mount Vernon VA (George Washington's plantation house), Cambridge MD , St Michaels MD , Annapolis MD , and Chestertown MD.

ACL cruise deals are inclusive of a pre-cruise hotel package, all shore excursions (organized daily), cocktail hour (each evening), cruise accommodation, gourmet meals, Afternoon Tea service, room service (Breakfast only), onboard enrichment and entertainment programs, Wi-Fi (shipwide coverage).

American Constitution - user reviews and comments

American constitution ship related cruise news.

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•   show more news

Other American Cruise Lines cruise ships

• ACL American Eagle
• ACL American Glory
• ACL American Legend
• ACL American Liberty
• American Constellation
• American Harmony
• American Heritage
• American Independence
• American Jazz
• American Melody
• American Pride
• American Serenade
• American Song
• American Spirit
• American Splendor
• American Star
• American Symphony
• American West

American Constitution Wiki

The newbuild vessel has a modern propulsion system consisting of 2x azimuth thrusters ("Z-drives") manufactured by Veth (Holland). These 360-degree rotating propellers (1x forward, 1x aft) provide the boat with greater manoeuvrability and berthing flexibility.

The ship is powered by 2x Caterpillar marine engines running on low-sulfur diesel. These modern engines require less fuel and produce fewer emissions (COx, NOx, SOx) and soot particles in comparison to other boats on the US river cruising market.

On June 20, 2017, was the vessel's launch (float-out) at Chesapeake shipyard (Salisbury MD), during which it was removed from drydock and slid into Wicomico River.

Ship's Inaugural Cruise (maiden voyage) was scheduled for April 18, 2018. The 11-day itinerary (themed" American Revolution Cruise", roundtrip from Baltimore MD ) included as ports of call Norfolk VA , Williamsburg VA, Yorktown VA , Washington DC , Mount Vernon VA (George Washington's plantation house), Cambridge MD , St Michaels MD , Annapolis MD , Chestertown MD.

Cruising The Past Cruise News

Coulter’s steamlined modern department store miracle mile los angeles.

I Love Lucy, Grace Kelly and the SS Constitution…

Posted by: Michael Grace November 8, 2014

The SS Constitution was a passenger ship owned by American Export Lines. She was commissioned in 1951. She sailed on the New York-Genoa-Naples and Gibraltar route to Europe. The Constitution was a sister ship to the SS Independence. The ships were two of the world’s most famous, popular, and innovative ocean liners, following World War 2. They were symbols of American maritime design and construction. They were big, fast, and very comfortable.

1955: Officers and crew assemble aboard the SS Constitution docked in Manhattan.

• The SS Constitution was an ocean liner owned by American Export Lines. Commissioned in 1951, she started her long career sailing on the New York-Genoa-Naples-Gibraltar route to Europe. Constitution was a sister ship to the SS Independence.
• SS Constitution was featured in several episodes of the situation comedy I Love Lucystarring Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, starting with episode 140, “Bon Voyage,” aired December 1, 1955. Lucy Ricardo missed the ship and had to be ferried by air by a then-novel helicopter.
• American movie actress Grace Kelly sailed aboard SS Constitution from New York to Monaco for her wedding to Prince Rainier in 1956.
• SS Constitution was featured in the 1957 film, An Affair to Remember starring Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. She was also featured in the beginning and end of an episode of the Naked City TV series titled “No Naked Ladies in Front of Giovanni’s House!” aired April 17, 1963.
• The ship also featured prominently in the Magnum, P.I. television series episode titled “All Thieves on Deck” aired January 30, 1986.
• Following service on American Export’s “Sunlane” cruise to Europe in the ’50s and ’60s the two ships sailed for American Hawaii Cruises for many years in the ’80s and ’90s; as U.S. ships with U.S. crews meeting the criteria of the Passenger Services Act they were able to cruise the Islands without sailing to a foreign port.
• SS Constitution was retired in 1995; while under tow to be scrapped, the liner sank north of the Hawaiian Islands on November 17, 1997; 700 nautical miles (1,300 km).

Grace Kelly sailing aboard the Constitution, with her family and friends, sailing to Monaco for her royal wedding. Newsreel. She was major celebrity. 

Beginning her career in 1951, the Constitution was a new kind of ship for a new kind of traveler. Far less intimidating than pre-war ships like the French Line’s Ile de France or Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary, the ship was conceived with glamorous informality in mind. Unlike European steamship lines, American companies realized that indecipherable French menus and starchy staff had become off-putting to passengers. The owners of the new vessel, American Export Lines, meant to give their clientele a new, less demanding, kind of elegance.

12th April 1956: American actress Grace Kelly on the way to be married in Monaco trying out the captain’s sextant on board the liner SS Constitution.

Lucy Ricardo missed the sailing of the ship and had to be ferried by air to the ship by  helicopter.

The ship also played a prominent role in the 1957 film, An Affair to Remember with Cary Grant & Deborah Kerr.   Location – the pool on the Lido Deck. 

Following service on American Export’s “Sunlane” cruises to Europe in the 50s and 60s, the two ships sailed for American Hawaii Cruises for many years in the 80s and 90s; because they were US ships with US crews, they were able to cruise the Islands without sailing to a foreign port.

SS Constitution being loaded at dock in New York City – 1950s. 

It was decommissioned in 1995 and, while under tow to be scrapped in 1997, sank 700 miles north of the Hawaiian Islands.

GRACE KELLY on the SS CONSTITUTION… glamour in the 1950s…

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American Constitution Deck Plans & Reviews

American Constitution

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American Hawaii Cruises Business Turnaround

• April 13, 1995

American Hawaii Cruises anticipates turning a profit in 1996, three years after being rescued from imminent bankruptcy by parent company American Classic Voyages (AMCV) according to AHC President and COO Tony McKinnon.

At the helm of AHC since February 1994, McKinnon candidly said, “It has been a challenging process (to revitalize the company), especially while running the cruise line at full speed.”

However, AHC is “70 percent of the way toward our goals to rebuild the company and will be well positioned in 1996 with both our ships refurbished and sailing.” noted McKinnon. Some objectives that have been met by the Hawaii cruise operator include restructure of the management team, relocation of the headquarters to Chicago. and implementation of a new reservations system.

The question remains as to whether a niche operaror can survive in an enrironment where success is increasingingly determined by economies of scale and operating efficiencies.

Last year, two specialty lines – American Family Cruises and FiestaMarina Cruises – called it quits, even though both companies had the backing of larger, well-established lines. Also, Radisson Diamond Cruises and Seven Seas Cruise Line merged forces, citing better economies of scale and lower operating expenditures.

However, for the past decade, AHC has been the only cruise operator in its niche – Hawaii -benefitting from the Jones Act by being the only American-flagged ocean-going cruise ship company.

When Aloha Pacific Cruises tried to enter the market with the Monterey a few years ago, a legal challenge by AHC forced that start-up venture out of business. (Although the Monterey was originally built in the United States. AHC’s challenge was based on much of the renovation work having been done abroad.)

Still, in spite of its market monopoly, AHC has sailed a shaky course among the Hawaiian Islands with repeated problems with U.S. Public Health in particular before the take-over. Lack of maintenance of the two old ships was seen as one reason for the problems.

After the acquisition, then Chairman of AMCV S, Cody Engle said that the ships were built strong and that. their life expectany was “at least another thirty years, probably indefinite”

Instead, the first major drydock of the Independence showed that a lot of steel work as required.

Refocused Product

Under AMCV, American Hawaii is moving forward, though, to solidify its position and attract new business, mainly by refocusing its product. The line hopes that Hawaii’s popularity, the company’s American-flag status, and the growing appeal of value­ oriented cruise vacations will heighten demand for its sailings. While promoting a freshened on-board product, including folkloric stoly-telling and cultural lessons. Hawaiian cuisine, spruced up uniforms, and a refurbished decor, the company also aggressively capitalizes on its U.S.-registered vessels.

“Our passengers want to visit Hawaii – it’s a great destination – and they can do so on our ships which are American, but which sail to a decidedly exotic destination.” said McKinnon.

The company will also work to increase its recognition factor which McKinnon said is “good, but could be stronger.” Last summer, AHC found that only 40 percent of surveyed travel agents sold AHC.

“We want to build awareness of our product with that other 60 percent segment,” he noted. To do so, AHC will spend about $6 million in trade and consumer advertising, direct mail and brochure distribution, including stepped-up efforts to agents. “We compete for Hawaii’s vacationers and we’re going to emphasize the destination.” said McKinnon.

AHC must also overcome some agents’ perceptions that its cruises are too expensive for some of their clients. The line has to also establish Hawaii cruising as separate from other warm-weather cruise regions, such as the Caribbean which is less expensive. Secondly, it must publicize that it is the only cruise line sailing those waters, and that it has great value and better pricing than land-based vacation alternatives.

AHC is also receiving mixed travel agent reviews. This might be due to the fact that the company is undergoing extensive changes, making for an inconsistent and ever-changing product line run by management that is relatively new to the job.

Numbers Game

McKinnon estimated that AHC “only needs two percent of Hawaii’s total tourism numbers to fill its ships,” accounting for 80.000 passengers annually.

Statistics show that 40 percent of AHC customers have previously visited Hawaii, with only eight percent being AHC past passengers and 60 percent having cruised before. The line will also pursue past passengers with a newly formed repeat passenger program. Overall, AHC passengers average 55-plus years old except for summers when more families sail. AHC per diems are $175 to $180.

Financial turnaround in such a short time period will be dramatic: In 1994, AHC experienced a “substantial net loss.” said McKinnon, who hopes the company will break-even or “do a little better” in 1995.

To accomplish this, AHC must contend with several factors and problems. For example, the company’s anticipated costs to refurbish the Independence on paper have more than doubled, in part because of steel work discovered halfway through the project. The Constitution, awaiting her make-over at the end of June, may be equally as expensive to refurbish because she will also need similar work.

Also, AHC, though seemingly holding an enviable position as the only regularly scheduled Hawaii cruise line, is still a small operation with two small and old ships. The line cannot achieve economies of scale boasted of by larger companies.

In fact, McKinnon confirms that American Hawaii charts “substantially higher capital and operating costs,” including American-standard crew salaries, and more maintenance expenditures for U.S. Coast Guard mandated drydockings.

The distinct advantage of operating as the only American-flagged line in Hawaii, however, outweighs these considerations, said McKinnon.

AHC is also embroiled in a legal battle with Newport News Shipyard concerning the escalated refurbishment costs of the Independence.

Financial Commitment

When AMCV purchased the struggling cruise line for $2.5 million in August 1993, one of the terms was that it spend about $30 million to re-do the vessels. Instead, the company will be spending some $60 million and probably fight more of an uphill marketing battle plus pricing pressures in the cruise market as well.

As AHC works to improve its bottom line, AMCV reported a net loss of $983,000, or $0.07 per share, on revenues of $195.2 million for 1994, compared to net income of $4.2 million, or $0.36 per share, on revenues of $121.7 million for 1993.

AMCV attributed the loss to “canceled cruises and significant operating problems associated with the renovation of the Independence.”

The Independence refurbishment ran a month late – resulting in unanticipated lost revenues. When total costs soared from the anticipated $13 million to nearly $30 million, AHC refused to pay, prompting Newport News to take legal action. However, AHC filed a counter-claim for $148 million in November against the yard charging fraud.

AHC also had problems on board the Independence, such as faulty air-conditioning and hot water systems, upon her return. AHC has since put a project team on the ship to deal with problems, said McKinnon. All work, he added, will be completed by mid-April.

At press time, a district court judge has sent the case to arbitration, a step that AHC has been pushing for, said McKinnon. The judge also gave AHC access to accrued interest from a $20 million escrow account established by AHC to pay the shipyard pending resolution of the matter.

Re-Scheduled Project

The rescheduling of the nearly five-month-long Constitution refurbishment from February to June -­ Hawaii’s high season – means a loss of prime time revenues.

But the ship must undergo her second drydock within the allotted five years – as required by Coast Guard regulations – which soon expires, explained McKinnon. AHC forestalled the project to better assess what has to be done on the Constitution. McKinnon noted, however, that specifications have been tightened and, therefore, costs will be somewhat curbed. This drydock, he added, will focus on marine work. Some Hawaiian design elements that were incorporated on the Independence will wait until the vessel’s next drydock in early 1997.

The Constitution is being examined by five shipyards at press time. McKinnon expects project bids mid-month and yard selection by the end of April.

Meanwhile, because of the short notice of the Constitution’s delayed refurbishment, AHC has been compelled to offer discounts, as well as incentives, on her March to June sailings to stimulate bookings. “We have to sell this last-minute inventory by offering these discounts, “said McKinnon.

MarAd’s Title XI loan guarantees may provide some financial ease for AMCV which has applied for its American Queen newbuilding for its other subsidiary, Delta Queen Steamboat Co., said McKinnon. They are also “actively investigating” financing opportunities for the Constitution. and retroactively, for the Independence, he added.

Also in 1995, American Hawaii will make some itinerary changes, reverting back to original programs. These include: Sunday instead of Tuesday departures for the Constitution; docking both ships at Kahului, Maui instead of Lahaina Harbor; and re-installing a full day at sea instead of overnight in Kona.

Tax Exemption

Intact American Hawaii will also keep its exemption from a four percent state public service company tax that the line has held since inception in 1981. Due to expire in July 1996, the tax break is worth approximately $3 to $4 million annually. However, McKinnon said that AHC, which has received two five­ year extensions, will not apply for a third. It also successfully escaped having a six percent transient accommodation tax slapped on its ships that could have cost AHC an estimated $106.000 more per year.

The line chooses to remain “in a neutral position” about incorporating shipboard gambling. Recently, the Hawaii Senate passed a bill allowing gaming in Hawaiian waters, although McKinnon doubts if the measure will sail through the House.

Regardless, American Hawaii contributes about $55 million to the state’s economy annually.

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CRUISE 1995: IN THE AMERICAS

Discounts, deals and amenities.

Grab the railing, folks, and hold on. The major cruise lines are charting spirited seas these days in an all-out effort to lure new passengers aboard. Bargains abound, and apparently no incentive is too wacky if it promises to fill cabins.

In the "who would believe it?" category is the news that the Legend of the Seas, a new 1,800-passenger liner debuting in May, will boast "the world's first floating 18-hole miniature golf course." This is no ordinary course with "windmills, pirates or volcanoes," say officials at Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. It will duplicate sand traps, water hazards and foliage of some of the world's great golf courses. The vessel will cruise Alaska and the Panama Canal with golf balls flying.

Other cruise lines are promising around-the-clock child care, ethnic restaurants, cultural and historical lectures, early boarding on departure day, more exotic itineraries, more smoke-free dining, super theaters, teen discos, computer schools at sea and high-tech computer games.

Does anybody sit in a deck chair and read a book anymore? Not likely when so much is going on. With information provided by the Cruise Lines International Association, which represents 31 lines, we've put together a sampling of what's new aboard ship this year. Some of the ideas seem quite useful or fun (or both), but others are, well, puzzling.

In the latter category falls American Hawaii Cruises' move to offer a traditional Hawaiian "paniolo-style" barbecue -- that is, a Hawaiian cowboy-style barbecue -- when its ships, the Independence and the Constitution, sail into the port of Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. The barbecue is a part of the line's commendable effort to add more Hawaiian culture to its island cruises. But these barbecues, so the cruise line reports, will be held on deck and not, as one might expect, ashore. Maybe sand in the sauce is too Hawaiian.

All of these incentives reflect the strongly competitive nature of the cruise industry. By one authoritative count, passengers have more than 115 ships and 5,400 cruises from which to choose. For several years, discounts have been plentiful. They are the result of excess cabins due to so many new ships being built, and the situation is likely to continue. Within the next four years, 24 new ships are expected to be launched, according to the cruise association, and that doesn't include one planned by the Walt Disney Co., which isn't an association member.

The new ships are being designed with more comforts and more activities than their predecessors -- which has created an ironic new source for bargains, according to travel agent Doris Davidoff of Belair Travel in Bowie, a frequent cruise passenger who keeps a close eye on developments in the cruise industry. Many passengers are booking the brand-new vessels, she says, "and a ship that is just three years old, which is young in ship terms, is being looked at as an old ship." She suggests looking for good buys in cruising on these slightly older vessels.

In Davidoff's view, the cruise lines have taken a serious look at the wants and needs of their passengers, and they are outfitting their vessels for a younger, more modern clientele. The fastest-growing group of passengers is the 25-to-40 age bracket, according to the cruise industry. And increasing numbers of travelers are taking the youngsters along. The most popular destination is the Caribbean.

Shipboard fitness spas are much larger on the newer ships, and they are packed with the latest exercise equipment, says Davidoff. And the latest ships generally feature jogging tracks that ring the deck, whereas older vessels provided very limited jogging space.

Currently, the average cruise vacationer is 49 years old, according to cruise association studies. And contrary to popular myth, most passengers are not wealthy. More than 60 percent report incomes of less than $60,000 a year.

One statistic that troubles the industry is a new study showing that only 47 percent of cruisers are sailing for the first time compared with 52 percent who are repeaters. The repeat business is fine, but to fill all of those new cabins, the lines need a strong and steady flow of first-timers, which isn't happening to the extent desired.

Travel Agent magazine reported recently that only about 4 percent of Americans have ever taken a cruise, while an estimated 60 million to 100 million Americans and Canadians could afford to do so but haven't. To draw these holdouts, the cruise lines, tour companies and travel agencies that specialize in shipboard vacations keep coming up with variations on cruising. Among the lures in '95: 18 holes of golf aboard the Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Legend of the Seas. It sounds improbable, but the cruise line maintains that its shipboard course will be "as challenging as some of the great courses of the world." The layout covers 6,000 square feet, and while the greens will be artificial, the course will not be bordered by wooden bumpers. Instead, each hole will be surrounded by rough "to duplicate the actual shoreside golf experience." Called Legend of the Links, the course will be covered for play in bad weather by a glass dome. Tournaments are planned, and there will be exclusive children's tee times.

Early lunch for embarking passengers on Princess Cruises' Caribbean and Alaskan departures. Typically, boarding time is in the afternoon, and cruise lines usually require early arriving passengers to wait in a pierside terminal area. But on these specific cruises and others where possible, Princess is allowing them aboard in the morning and providing a light buffet lunch before afternoon check-in. A computer-learning class on Holland America Line's Westerdam. On two one-week Caribbean cruises, April 22 and Oct. 28, the Chesapeake Computing Center and Belair Travel will present a series of five hands-on computer-learning seminars. Two of the seminars are three hours long and three are six hours long, and participants can sign up for as many as they choose. For details: Belair Travel, 301-262-7400 or 800-638-0827. High-tech games on Carnival Cruise Lines' Holiday. The line is spending $1 million on a new game-filled entertainment center dubbed the Blue Lagoon for the Holiday, which will be cruising the West Coast. A total of 62 high-tech thrillers are being installed, including one in which participants can engage in an aerial dogfight in a machine that spins 360 degrees and turns upside down. Obviously aimed at teens, the game center also will feature a teen disco and an ice cream parlor. "Dialogues With Great Minds" on Radisson Seven Seas Cruises. More cerebral pursuits can be pursued aboard the line's three ships, the Radisson Diamond, Song of Flower and Hanseatic, which cruise in the Mediterranean Sea and in Asia. Programs will feature lectures on "great minds," as developed by the Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota. The American Queen, an all-new Mississippi River steamboat operated by Delta Queen Steamboat Co. The paddle wheeler, gilded in gingerbread, is expected to make its debut June 27, joining its sister ships the Delta Queen and the Mississippi Queen on nostalgic 19th-century cruises on America's heartland rivers. Initially, it will ply the Mississippi and Ohio rivers. All three vessels will gather in St. Louis for the 4th of July holiday. Prepaid shore excursions from Premier Cruise Lines. Travel agents like the idea of selling shore excursions in advance because they can earn a 10 percent commission on the price. But Belair's Davidoff argues that consumers benefit also, because they can consult with knowledgeable agents about the tours. "Some excursions are worth the cost," she says, "and some are not." Except on extended cruises, other lines generally promote shore excursions once passengers are aboard, in part because passengers often change their minds at the last minute about what tour they want. More smoke-free dining. The Majesty Cruise Line, which sails to the Bahamas, Mexico and Bermuda, is given credit for introducing a fully smoke-free dining room in 1992. Now other cruise lines are following in its wake. As reported by the Cruise Lines International Association, they include American Hawaii Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Epirotiki Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and World Explorer Cruises. On Premier Cruise Lines, the first seating is nonsmoking and a nonsmoking section is provided for the second seating. Hawaiiana programs on American Hawaii Cruises. Though an on-deck Hawaiian barbecue seems to take the pizazz out of the experience, overall the line's increased efforts this year to integrate Hawaiian traditions, culture and cuisine into its itineraries is a big plus. Hawaiian teachers offer "talk stories" about island history, new shows for '95 feature Hawaiian themes, and the Independence is getting an exhibit of authentic Polynesian artifacts from Honolulu's prestigious Bishop Museum. The Constitution will receive a similar exhibit in '96. 24-hour child care on the family-oriented Big Red Boat of Premier Cruise Lines. Daytime children's activities are offered from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily for ages 2 to 12. And the new extended-care program is available during the overnight hours. "We have essentially given parents the option of having their children with our professionally trained youth counselors any time of the day or night," says a Premier official. Shore excursions on bicycle from World Explorer Cruises' SS Universe. The line's new "Bike and Cruise Alaska" shore excursion is, say officials, an effort to "tempt travelers seeking to exercise their bodies as well as their minds." On three Alaskan sailings -- July 2, 16 and 30 -- escorted bicycling tours of from 12 to 50 miles will be offered in eight ports. Beginners as well as avid cyclists are welcome. SuperCharge, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's cash-free credit system. The cruise industry is beginning to enter the computer age. On the new Legend of the Seas, passengers will receive an identification card. With one swipe through a SuperCharge magnetic reader, the card will register any purchase so that no cash must be exchanged. Increasingly, cruise lines are accepting credit cards for cruise deposits and final payments. And cruise lines have begun to enter their schedules on the computer reservation systems of travel agents just as airlines do. This allows agents to make bookings on their screens without phoning the cruise line. Offbeat Caribbean itineraries on Dolphin Cruise Line's OceanBreeze. Charting less-frequented ports of the Caribbean, the OceanBreeze will offer alternating seven-night itineraries from the Dutch island of Aruba. On one itinerary, the OceanBreeze sails into Panama's Gatun Lake and also visits the San Blas Islands, historic Cartagena in Colombia and Dutch Curacao. On the other, it calls on Dominica, Barbados, Martinique and Curacao. Italian and Chinese dining rooms on the Crystal Symphony of Crystal Cruises. Debuting in May, the 960-passenger Crystal Symphony will provide passengers with two alternatives to its main dining room at no extra charge. One is the Prego Restaurant, featuring Italian dishes, and the other is the Jade Garden for Chinese fare. The ship will cruise Alaska this summer and then sail to Asia. Free cruises, a promotion of the Cruise Lines International Association to celebrate February as National Cruise Vacation Month. For the fifth year, the association is offering a chance to win a free cruise -- actually 115 cruises, which is the number of ships in its members' fleets. There are two ways to win.

To be an instant winner, you must take the response card that was in the special cruise section of the Jan. 30 issue of Newsweek to an association-affiliated travel agency. Agencies belonging to the association display its seal in their Yellow Pages listings. Look for "CLIA."

You also can win by using the mail-in entry form also in the Jan. 30 Newsweek. Entry forms also will appear in the March/April issue of National Geographic Traveler, the March/April issue of Islands magazine and the March/April issue of Bridal Guide. And the form already has appeared in the Jan. 30 issue of MacLean's. Winners will be chosen in a random drawing in April. CAPTION: Carnival Cruise Lines' Fantasy, left, and Royal Caribbean Cruise Line's Nordic Empress in Miami.

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.