What Cruise Lines Go Around the Hawaiian Islands A Complete Guide

Major cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line offer round-trip voyages around the Hawaiian Islands, showcasing the beauty of Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai. These 7- to 14-day itineraries often depart from the West Coast or Honolulu, combining luxury, culture, and stunning Pacific scenery for an unforgettable island-hopping experience.

Key Takeaways

• Choose Norwegian Cruise Line for flexible, round-trip Hawaii itineraries from the West Coast.
• Book with Princess Cruises for scenic, longer voyages with cultural enrichment programs.
• Opt for Carnival Cruise Line if budget-friendly, fun-focused island-hopping is your priority.
• Select Holland America Line for premium service and immersive Hawaiian heritage experiences.
• Consider small-ship lines like UnCruise for intimate, adventure-driven island exploration.

Discover the Magic of Hawaii: Cruising Through Paradise

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the Hawaiian Islands. From the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast to the golden sands of Waikiki and the volcanic majesty of the Big Island, Hawaii offers a sensory overload of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventure. While many travelers opt for inter-island flights or multi-destination land tours, there’s a growing trend that combines the luxury of sea travel with the convenience of island-hopping: cruising around the Hawaiian Islands.

Unlike typical tropical cruises that focus on a single destination or short stops, a Hawaiian island cruise allows you to explore multiple islands in one seamless journey. You wake up to a new island each morning, with your floating hotel carrying you across the Pacific in comfort and style. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, a Hawaiian cruise offers a unique way to experience the Aloha State without the hassle of packing and repacking, booking multiple hotels, or navigating unfamiliar roads. But with so many cruise lines offering different itineraries, ships, and experiences, how do you choose the right one? This guide will walk you through what cruise lines go around the Hawaiian Islands, helping you find the perfect voyage for your dream Hawaiian getaway.

Why Choose a Cruise Around the Hawaiian Islands?

The Advantages of Island-Hopping by Sea

Cruising around the Hawaiian Islands isn’t just a vacation—it’s a transformative experience. One of the biggest advantages is convenience. Instead of coordinating flights, shuttles, and hotel check-ins across four or five islands, you board your ship once and let it do the work. You unpack once, enjoy onboard amenities like spas, pools, and gourmet dining, and wake up in a new port each day. This is especially appealing for families, couples, or older travelers who want to minimize logistical stress.

Another major benefit is scenic travel. The Pacific Ocean between Hawaii’s islands is breathtaking. You’ll sail past towering sea cliffs, spot humpback whales (especially in winter), and witness sunsets that paint the sky in hues of gold and purple. Many cruises also offer shore excursions curated to each island’s unique offerings—from snorkeling in Kauai’s pristine waters to hiking to a volcano on the Big Island.

Unique Cultural and Natural Experiences

Unlike land-based trips, Hawaiian cruises often include cultural programming onboard. You might enjoy traditional hula performances, lei-making workshops, or lectures on Hawaiian history and mythology. Some ships even feature native Hawaiian cultural ambassadors who share authentic stories and customs, enriching your understanding of the islands beyond the postcard views.

Additionally, cruising allows access to remote areas that are difficult to reach by land. For example, the Napali Coast on Kauai is best seen from the sea, and many cruise lines offer special sailings that navigate its rugged beauty. On the Big Island, some itineraries include stops at Hilo or Kona, giving you access to active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and coffee plantations.

Cost-Effectiveness and Value

While luxury cruise lines can be pricey, many mid-tier and even budget-friendly options offer all-inclusive value. Your fare typically covers accommodations, meals (including specialty dining on many ships), entertainment, and sometimes even airfare from the mainland. When you factor in the cost of inter-island flights, hotels, and car rentals, a cruise can actually be more economical—especially for longer stays (7 to 14 days).

Plus, many cruise lines offer early-bird discounts, loyalty rewards, and seasonal promotions. For example, booking a 10-night Hawaiian cruise in the shoulder season (April or October) can save you hundreds compared to peak summer or winter holidays.

Top Cruise Lines That Sail Around the Hawaiian Islands

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The “Freestyle” Pioneer

Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the most popular choices for Hawaiian island cruises, thanks to its Freestyle Cruising concept. This means no fixed dining times, no formal dress codes, and the flexibility to design your own itinerary. NCL operates the Norwegian Encore, a modern, spacious ship that sails a 10- to 11-night Hawaiian itinerary round-trip from Honolulu.

Itinerary Highlights:

• Honolulu (Oahu) – embarkation and disembarkation
• Maui (Lahaina) – 2 days, perfect for exploring Haleakalā National Park and snorkeling at Molokini Crater
• Hilo and Kona (Big Island) – visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and coffee farms
• Kauai (Nawiliwili) – explore Waimea Canyon and the Napali Coast

NCL’s onboard experience includes Broadway-style shows, a water park, multiple specialty restaurants (like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki), and a vibrant nightlife scene. Families love the kids’ clubs, while couples appreciate the adults-only Spice H2O area.

Celebrity Cruises: Luxury Meets Nature

Celebrity Cruises offers a more refined, upscale experience on its Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse, which sail 10- to 12-night Hawaiian itineraries. These ships are known for their elegant design, gourmet dining, and immersive cultural programming.

Why Choose Celebrity?

• Farm-to-table cuisine at the Blu restaurant (exclusive to suite guests)
• Hawaiian cultural ambassadors onboard
• Enrichment programs on Polynesian navigation and marine biology
• Spacious staterooms with private verandas

Celebrity’s itineraries often include longer port stays—up to 12 hours—giving you ample time to explore. They also offer exclusive excursions, such as a private helicopter tour over the Napali Coast or a sunset sail in Maui.

Princess Cruises: The “Love Boat” of Hawaii

Princess Cruises has a long-standing reputation for exceptional service and immersive itineraries. Their Star Princess and Grand Princess sail 14- to 15-night Hawaiian cruises, often starting in Los Angeles or Vancouver and ending in Honolulu (or vice versa).

Key Features:

• Discovery at SEA program with BBC Earth content and naturalist-led lectures
• Outdoor movies under the stars
• MedallionClass technology for contactless service and personalized experiences
• Specialty dining at SHARE by Curtis Stone

Princess is ideal for travelers who want a classic cruise experience with a mix of relaxation and exploration. Their itineraries often include stops at less-visited ports like Kauai’s Port Allen or the Big Island’s Kona, offering a more authentic glimpse into local life.

Holland America Line: Elegance and Heritage

Holland America Line is known for its traditional, refined ambiance and exceptional service. The Koningsdam and Eurodam sail 14-night Hawaiian cruises, typically round-trip from San Diego or Vancouver.

What Sets Holland America Apart:

• BBC Earth onboard experiences, including live wildlife presentations
• World-class culinary arts center with cooking classes
• Extensive enrichment programs, including Hawaiian language and history
• Spacious, mid-sized ships with a more intimate feel

Holland America appeals to mature travelers and culture enthusiasts who appreciate a slower pace and deeper immersion. Their shore excursions often include visits to local farms, cultural centers, and historical sites.

Royal Caribbean: Adventure and Innovation

While Royal Caribbean is best known for its mega-ships and thrill rides, it also offers select Hawaiian itineraries on the Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas. These 10- to 12-night cruises are perfect for families and adrenaline seekers.

Onboard Highlights:

• North Star observation capsule offering 360-degree views
• FlowRider surf simulator
• Rock climbing walls, ice skating rink, and bumper cars
• Dynamic dining with rotating restaurants

Royal Caribbean’s itineraries often include longer sea days, making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the ship’s amenities while still visiting multiple islands. Their shore excursions focus on adventure—think zip-lining in Kauai or snorkeling with sea turtles in Maui.

Popular Itineraries and Port Stops: What to Expect

Classic 10- to 14-Night Round-Trip Itineraries

Most Hawaiian island cruises follow a clockwise loop starting and ending in Honolulu (Oahu). This route typically includes:

• Maui (Lahaina or Kahului): 2 days to explore Haleakalā, the Road to Hana, and snorkel at Molokini.
• Hilo (Big Island): Gateway to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the lush rainforests of Puna.
• Kona (Big Island): Famous for Kona coffee, black sand beaches, and manta ray night dives.
• Kauai (Nawiliwili or Port Allen): Home to Waimea Canyon, the Napali Coast, and Wailua Falls.

These itineraries allow you to visit all four major islands in one trip, with sea days in between for relaxation and onboard activities.

Transpacific and One-Way Cruises

For travelers coming from the mainland, transpacific cruises are a popular option. These 14- to 16-night voyages sail from Los Angeles, San Diego, or Vancouver to Honolulu (or vice versa). They often include stops in Ensenada (Mexico) or even French Polynesia, adding an extra layer of adventure.

One-way cruises are ideal for bucket-list travelers who want to combine Hawaii with another destination. For example, a 20-night cruise might start in Sydney, stop in Hawaii, and end in Vancouver.

Seasonal Variations and Weather Considerations

The best time to cruise the Hawaiian Islands is during the shoulder seasons: April to May and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather (75–85°F), fewer crowds, and lower prices. Summer (June–August) is peak season with higher demand, while winter (December–March) brings the best whale-watching opportunities but also rougher seas.

Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June to November, though direct hits are rare. Cruise lines monitor weather closely and may adjust itineraries if needed.

Onboard Experience: What’s Included and What to Expect

Accommodations: From Cozy to Luxurious

Cruise accommodations range from interior staterooms (budget-friendly) to suites with private balconies and butler service (luxury). Most ships offer:

• Oceanview and balcony rooms with stunning views
• Family-friendly connecting cabins
• Accessible staterooms for guests with mobility needs

For the best value, consider a guarantee cabin—you’ll be assigned a room later, but you save up to 30%.

Dining Options: From Casual to Gourmet

Most cruise lines offer multiple dining venues:

• Main dining rooms with rotating menus and formal nights (optional)
• Buffet-style restaurants for breakfast and lunch
• Specialty restaurants (e.g., Italian, steakhouse, sushi) for an extra fee
• Room service (often 24/7, sometimes for a small fee)

Celebrity and Princess stand out for their farm-to-table and sustainable seafood offerings. NCL and Royal Caribbean offer more casual, diverse options.

Entertainment and Activities

Onboard entertainment varies by cruise line:

• Broadway shows and live music (NCL, Royal Caribbean)
• Enrichment lectures and cultural programs (Princess, Holland America)
• Spa and wellness centers (Celebrity, NCL)
• Family-friendly activities (kids’ clubs, water slides, game zones)

Many ships also feature Hawaiian-themed events, such as luaus, ukulele lessons, and lei-making classes.

Planning Your Hawaiian Cruise: Tips and Recommendations

Booking the Right Cruise for Your Travel Style

Ask yourself:

• Do you prefer a relaxing, cultural experience (Celebrity, Holland America) or a high-energy, family-friendly adventure (Royal Caribbean, NCL)?
• Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with kids? Some ships cater better to specific groups.
• How important are itinerary details (e.g., port time, shore excursions)?

Use cruise comparison tools like CruiseCritic or Expedia to read reviews and compare prices.

Packing Essentials for a Hawaiian Cruise

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (Hawaii is tropical)
• Reef-safe sunscreen (required in some areas)
• Water shoes for rocky beaches
• Binoculars for whale and wildlife watching
• Hawaiian phrasebook (optional, but fun!)

Shore Excursions: Booking Smart

You can book excursions through the cruise line (convenient but pricier) or independently (cheaper, but requires more planning). Pro tip: Research ports in advance and book popular tours (e.g., Napali Coast boat tours) early—they sell out fast!

Sustainable and Responsible Travel

Hawaii’s ecosystems are fragile. Choose eco-friendly excursions, avoid single-use plastics, and respect local customs (e.g., don’t remove lava rocks or coral). Many cruise lines now partner with Hawaiian conservation groups to support reef restoration and cultural preservation.

Data Table: Quick Comparison of Hawaiian Island Cruise Lines

Cruise Line	Ship Example	Itinerary Length	Best For	Unique Feature	Price Range (per person)
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Encore	10–11 nights	Families, couples	Freestyle dining, water park	$1,200–$2,500
Celebrity Cruises	Celebrity Eclipse	10–12 nights	Couples, luxury travelers	Hawaiian cultural ambassadors	$1,800–$3,500
Princess Cruises	Star Princess	14–15 nights	Seniors, culture lovers	Discovery at SEA program	$1,500–$3,000
Holland America Line	Koningsdam	14 nights	Mature travelers	BBC Earth experiences	$1,600–$3,200
Royal Caribbean	Anthem of the Seas	10–12 nights	Families, thrill-seekers	North Star observation capsule	$1,400–$2,800

Final Thoughts: Your Dream Hawaiian Cruise Awaits

Whether you’re drawn to the lush rainforests of Kauai, the volcanic wonders of the Big Island, or the vibrant culture of Oahu, cruising around the Hawaiian Islands offers an unparalleled way to experience the Aloha State. With a variety of cruise lines, itineraries, and onboard experiences to choose from, there’s a perfect voyage for every traveler—from luxury seekers to adventure enthusiasts.

By understanding what cruise lines go around the Hawaiian Islands, you can make an informed decision that matches your travel style, budget, and interests. Remember to book early, pack smart, and embrace the spirit of aloha. As you sail across the Pacific, surrounded by turquoise waters and volcanic peaks, you’ll create memories that last a lifetime. So set your course for paradise—your Hawaiian island cruise adventure begins now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go around the Hawaiian Islands?

Major cruise lines offering Hawaiian Islands itineraries include Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Carnival Cruise Line. These lines provide round-trip and one-way voyages, often stopping at Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Which cruise lines offer the best Hawaiian Islands experience?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises are top choices for Hawaiian Islands cruises, known for their immersive cultural programs, scenic routes, and shore excursions. Both lines feature longer itineraries (10–15 days) to fully explore the islands.

Are there luxury cruise lines that sail around the Hawaiian Islands?

Yes, luxury options like Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Oceania Cruises offer Hawaiian Islands itineraries with premium amenities and smaller ships. These cruises focus on personalized service and exclusive ports, ideal for a high-end experience.

Do any cruise lines offer round-trip Hawaiian Islands cruises from the West Coast?

Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises frequently operate round-trip Hawaiian Islands cruises from Los Angeles or San Francisco. These 14–16 day journeys are convenient for travelers wanting to avoid flights to Hawaii.

What cruise lines go around the Hawaiian Islands with family-friendly options?

Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line are great for families, offering kid-friendly activities, dining, and shore excursions. Both lines feature Hawaiian Islands routes with stops at popular family attractions like Pearl Harbor and Haleakalā National Park.

Are there small-ship cruise lines exploring the Hawaiian Islands?

Small-ship lines like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions (partnered with National Geographic) provide intimate Hawaiian Islands cruises. These voyages focus on eco-tourism, wildlife encounters, and off-the-beaten-path destinations.