Explore Hawaii Cruise Ports & Highlights
Hawaii welcomes thousands of cruise visitors each year. Known for its stunning scenery and rich culture, the islands offer diverse experiences at every turn. From the vibrant streets of Honolulu to the remote valleys of Kauai, each port reveals a unique face of island life.
Honolulu (Oahu): The perfect blend of city and shore. Visit Pearl Harbor, hike Diamond Head, or relax on Waikiki Beach, all just steps from your cruiser.
Lahaina (Maui): A historic whaling village turned charming port. Head out to Molokini Crater for world-class snorkeling or catch the sunrise atop Haleakala.
Nawiliwili (Kauai): The Garden Isle greets cruisers with lush paths, kayak access to hidden waterfalls, and scenic hikes like Waimea Canyon and the Na Pali Coast.
Kona & Hilo (Big Island): Kona’s coffee farms and lava-strewn beaches contrast sharply with Hilo’s rainforests, waterfalls, and visitable Volcanoes National Park.
Ocean & River‑Style Cruise Itineraries
- 7‑Night Inter‑Island Cruises: Typically roundtrip from Honolulu, visiting Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island with full-day port stops.
- California‑To‑Hawaii Cruises: Depart from San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego for scenic sea days and immersive island explore.
- Luxury Small‑Ship Journeys: Mediterranean-style amenities on ships from lines like Regent, Oceania, and Viking.
- Hawaii‑South Pacific Explorations: Multi‑destination voyages that include stops in Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Moorea.
- River‑Style Small‑Ship Voyages: American Cruise Lines and similar brands offer more intimate inter‑island pacing, reminiscent of river cruising.
Top Shore Excursions
- Helicopter tours over Maui’s volcanic valleys
- Snorkeling with sea turtles in Molokini or Kealakekua Bay
- Sunrise at Haleakala National Park
- Lava fields at Volcanoes National Park
- Traditional luau experiences and lei-making
- Na Pali Coast kayaking and boat cruises on Kauai
Optimal Time to Cruise Hawaii
Hawaii cruises operate year‑round. Peak season stretches from spring through fall, offering calm seas and sunshine. Winter brings cooler weather but unmatched whale‑watching opportunities and quieter ports.
Popular Cruise Lines
- Princess Cruises – Broad Hawaii itinerary options
- Holland America – Deep cultural experiences
- Norwegian Cruise Line – Family‑friendly comfort
- Regent, Oceania, Viking – Luxury, boutique cruise experiences
- American Cruise Lines – Small ships, personalized service
Why Hawaii‑Cruise Specialists?
We focus exclusively on Hawaii. Our experts know every port, hidden trail and ideal travel window. We secure exclusive deals, upgrades, and custom itineraries, from quick inter‑island trips to deluxe exploration cruises.
Why book with the experts at Official Cruise Directory?
They are true experts, they know all the tricks, have all the tools, they will save you time, they will often save you money, and they will never charge you for their services!
