What Cruise Lines Go to Hawaii Explore Top Options Now

Major cruise lines like Norwegian, Princess, and Royal Caribbean offer unforgettable voyages to Hawaii, with itineraries ranging from 10 to 15 days and stops at iconic islands such as Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. Smaller luxury options, including Celebrity and Holland America, provide more intimate, immersive experiences with cultural excursions and scenic coastal routes. Explore top-rated ships and exclusive deals to find the perfect Hawaiian cruise for your next adventure.

Key Takeaways

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Offers year-round Hawaii cruises with inter-island itineraries.
• Princess Cruises: Features longer voyages with immersive cultural experiences in Hawaii.
• Royal Caribbean: Combines Hawaii stops with Pacific Coast or Alaska sailings.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Budget-friendly options with limited Hawaii departures from West Coast.
• Small-ship lines: UnCruise and Lindblad provide intimate, adventure-focused Hawaiian voyages.
• Seasonal routes: Most lines offer Hawaii cruises from fall to spring only.
• Book early: Hawaii sailings sell out fast; plan 6-12 months ahead.

What Cruise Lines Go to Hawaii? Explore Top Options Now

Hawaii, with its emerald mountains, turquoise waters, and vibrant Polynesian culture, is a dream destination for many travelers. While flights dominate the route to this Pacific paradise, an increasing number of vacationers are discovering the magic of arriving by cruise ship. Cruising to Hawaii offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion—all while enjoying the comforts of a floating resort. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned seafarer, the allure of waking up to the sight of a volcanic island or sipping a mai tai on deck as the sun sets over the Pacific is irresistible.

But with so many cruise lines operating in the Pacific, what cruise lines go to Hawaii? The answer is more diverse than you might expect. From luxury ocean liners to casual, family-friendly vessels, there’s a cruise option to suit every travel style, budget, and itinerary preference. Whether you’re planning a 10-day island-hopping adventure, a repositioning cruise from California, or a round-trip journey from Hawaii itself, this guide will walk you through the top cruise lines that sail to the Aloha State. We’ll explore their unique offerings, itineraries, onboard experiences, and practical tips to help you choose the perfect voyage.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Hawaii Itineraries

When it comes to what cruise lines go to Hawaii, several major players dominate the market, each bringing a distinct flavor to the journey. These lines offer a mix of round-trip voyages from the U.S. West Coast, one-way repositioning cruises, and even inter-island sailings from Honolulu. Below are the top cruise lines you should consider for your Hawaiian escape.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Freestyle Pioneer

Norwegian Cruise Line is a standout choice for travelers seeking flexibility and fun. Known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, NCL allows guests to dine whenever they want, dress as they please, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere without rigid schedules. The Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Jewel regularly sail to Hawaii, offering round-trip itineraries from Los Angeles, San Diego, or Vancouver.

Typical itineraries last 10–14 days and include stops at:

• Kauai (Nawiliwili)
• Hawaii (Kona or Hilo)
• Maui (Lahaina)
• Oahu (Honolulu)

One of the biggest draws of NCL is its Hawaii-only cruises, which depart from Honolulu and focus on inter-island exploration. These 7-day sailings are ideal for travelers who want to experience multiple islands without flying between them. Onboard, expect Broadway-style shows, diverse dining options (from sushi to Brazilian steakhouse), and the thrilling Aqua Racer waterslide.

Pro Tip: Book early to secure balcony staterooms with views of volcanic landscapes and waterfalls—especially on days the ship arrives at Kauai’s Na Pali Coast.

Princess Cruises: The Scenic Explorer

Princess Cruises is synonymous with scenic beauty and cultural depth. Their Grand Class and Royal Class ships—like the Emerald Princess and Discovery Princess—offer some of the most immersive Hawaii experiences. Princess is famous for its “Pacific Princess” and “Circle Hawaii” itineraries, which are 14–16 days long and often begin in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Seattle.

What sets Princess apart is its Local Connections program, which includes:

• Hawaiian cultural performances onboard
• Shore excursions led by local guides
• Onboard lectures by historians and marine biologists

Princess also offers a unique “Hawaiian Adventure” package that combines a cruise with a 3–5 night land stay, allowing you to explore Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, or the Big Island’s volcanoes in depth. Their ships feature the Movies Under the Stars outdoor theater, where you can watch films with a backdrop of starlit skies and the Pacific Ocean.

Insider Tip: Princess’s “MedallionClass” technology allows for contactless check-in, room service ordering via app, and even tracking your kids—making it a great choice for families.

Royal Caribbean International: The Action-Packed Voyage

For travelers who want non-stop entertainment and adrenaline-pumping activities, Royal Caribbean delivers. The Radiance of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas are the primary vessels sailing to Hawaii, offering 11–14 day itineraries from Los Angeles or Vancouver. These cruises are perfect for families, couples, and thrill-seekers.

Onboard highlights include:

• FlowRider surf simulator
• Rock climbing walls
• Ice skating rink (on select ships)
• Broadway-quality shows like Grease or Hairspray

Royal Caribbean’s Hawaii cruises often feature longer port stays, giving you more time to explore. For example, the ship might dock in Kauai for 12 hours, allowing you to take a helicopter tour of the Na Pali Coast or hike the Kalalau Trail. Their “Perfect Day at CocoCay” private island (in the Bahamas) is not in Hawaii, but their focus on private, curated experiences translates well to their Pacific itineraries.

Travel Tip: Book a suite to access the Suite Lounge and Coastal Kitchen, which offer complimentary breakfast, snacks, and a dedicated concierge.

Holland America Line: The Cultural Connoisseur

Holland America Line appeals to travelers who appreciate refined elegance, educational enrichment, and a slower pace. Their Eurodam and Koningsdam ships sail 14–21 day Hawaii itineraries, often as part of longer Pacific crossings. These cruises are ideal for retirees, solo travelers, and those seeking a more contemplative journey.

Holland America emphasizes cultural immersion through:

• Hawaiian language and hula workshops
• Onboard ukulele lessons
• Lectures on Polynesian history and ecology
• Traditional lei-making sessions

Their ships feature the Explorations Central (EXC) program, which connects guests with local experts and offers curated shore excursions. For example, in Hilo, you might join a guided tour of a coffee plantation or a visit to a sacred heiau (temple). Holland America also partners with Oceans for the Future to promote sustainable tourism in Hawaii.

Bonus: Their “Taste of Alaska & Hawaii” repositioning cruise combines glaciers, wildlife, and tropical beauty—perfect for bucket-list travelers.

Luxury and Small-Ship Cruises to Hawaii

While mainstream cruise lines offer convenience and variety, luxury and small-ship operators provide a more intimate, high-end experience. These lines focus on personalized service, gourmet dining, and access to remote destinations. If you’re looking for a truly unique way to explore Hawaii, consider one of these premium options.

Crystal Cruises: The All-Inclusive Elegance

Crystal Cruises (rebranded as Crystal after its relaunch in 2023) offers 11–14 day Hawaii itineraries aboard the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. These ships carry just 900–1,000 guests, ensuring a high staff-to-guest ratio and a relaxed ambiance.

Key features include:

• All-suite accommodations with butler service
• Open-seating dining with Michelin-inspired menus
• Onboard enrichment: language classes, wine tastings, and art auctions
• Private excursions with local chefs or historians

Crystal’s Hawaii cruises often include overnight stays in Honolulu or Lahaina, giving you time to attend a luau or explore historic sites. Their “Hawaiian Heritage” shore excursions are highly rated, offering visits to sacred sites, private beach picnics, and cultural storytelling sessions.

Insider Perk: Crystal includes gratuities, premium beverages, and even a $1,000 onboard credit for suite guests—making it one of the most inclusive luxury options.

Windstar Cruises: The Yacht-Like Adventure

Windstar Cruises operates small, elegant yachts like the Star Breeze and Wind Spirit, which carry 212–312 passengers. These ships feel more like private yachts than traditional cruise liners, with open decks, a relaxed dress code, and a focus on adventure.

Windstar’s 10–14 day Hawaii itineraries are known for:

• Access to smaller ports like Nawiliwili (Kauai) and Lahaina (Maui)
• Water sports platform for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling
• Onboard water sports marina (on select ships)
• Intimate, chef-led cooking classes using local ingredients

Windstar’s “Hawaiian Islands” cruise is particularly popular for its focus on sustainability and community engagement. Guests participate in beach cleanups, learn about native species, and dine on farm-to-table meals featuring Hawaiian produce.

Traveler Tip: Book a suite with a private veranda—perfect for watching humpback whales breach during migration season (December–April).

UnCruise Adventures: The Eco-Conscious Explorer

For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, UnCruise Adventures offers 7–14 day small-group expeditions aboard vessels like the Safari Explorer and Wilderness Legacy. These cruises are ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.

UnCruise’s Hawaii itineraries emphasize:

• Small groups (12–86 guests)
• Daily guided hikes, snorkeling, and kayaking
• Onboard naturalists and marine biologists
• Zero single-use plastics and carbon offset programs

Their “Hawaiian Seascapes & Culture” cruise visits remote areas like the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument (a UNESCO site) and offers opportunities to swim with manta rays, explore lava tubes, and attend traditional storytelling nights.

Eco Tip: UnCruise partners with local conservation groups—part of your fare supports reef restoration and cultural preservation.

Repositioning Cruises: A Unique Way to Reach Hawaii

Repositioning cruises—voyages where ships move from one region to another—are a fantastic, often overlooked way to reach Hawaii. These cruises typically occur in spring (when ships move from Alaska to Hawaii) or fall (when ships return to the mainland). They offer longer itineraries, lower prices, and a mix of destinations.

Spring Repositioning: Alaska to Hawaii

In April and May, several cruise lines reposition ships from Alaska to the Pacific. These cruises often include stops in:

• Victoria and Vancouver (Canada)
• San Francisco or Los Angeles (California)
• Hawaii (Oahu, Maui, Kauai)
• Sometimes Tahiti or French Polynesia

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line are the main operators. A typical 16–21 day cruise might start in Vancouver and end in Honolulu, with 3–5 days in Hawaii. These itineraries are great for travelers who want to see glaciers, rainforests, and volcanoes all in one trip.

Pro Tip: Book a repositioning cruise for significant savings—prices are often 20–30% lower than standard Hawaii cruises.

Fall Repositioning: Hawaii to California

In September and October, ships return to the U.S. West Coast. These cruises are ideal for travelers who want to start their vacation in Hawaii and end it in a major city. For example, a 14-day cruise might depart from Honolulu and end in Los Angeles, with stops in Kauai, Hilo, and Maui along the way.

NCL and Royal Caribbean offer these routes. The fall season is also excellent for whale watching, as humpbacks begin their migration south.

Insider Strategy: Use a repositioning cruise to save on airfare. Fly into Honolulu, cruise to California, and fly home from there—no backtracking!

Inter-Island Cruises: Exploring Hawaii by Sea

For travelers already in Hawaii, inter-island cruises offer a unique way to explore the archipelago. These short (3–7 day) voyages depart from Honolulu and visit multiple islands, eliminating the need for flights and rental cars.

Norwegian Cruise Line: The 7-Day Inter-Island Experience

NCL’s Norwegian Pride of America is the only U.S.-flagged ship in Hawaii, meaning it can legally operate inter-island cruises without leaving U.S. waters. This 7-day itinerary visits:

• Hilo (Hawaii Island)
• Kona (Hawaii Island)
• Maui (Lahaina)
• Kauai (Nawiliwili)

The ship is designed to resemble a Hawaiian resort, with aloha-themed decor, a poolside luau, and onboard hula dancers. It also offers Hawaii-only dining, featuring local dishes like poke, kalua pig, and fresh mahi-mahi.

Key Advantage: The Pride of America docks overnight in Kauai and Maui, giving you extra time to explore.

Other Inter-Island Options

While NCL dominates the inter-island market, smaller operators like Hawaiian Ocean Cruises (a day-cruise operator) and Oceania Cruises (occasional 10–14 day voyages) also offer multi-island itineraries. Oceania’s Insignia and Regatta focus on luxury and culinary experiences, with wine-pairing dinners and cooking demos by local chefs.

Choosing the Right Cruise: Tips and Data

With so many options, choosing the right cruise can be overwhelming. Use this data table and expert tips to narrow your search.

Cruise Line	Ships Serving Hawaii	Typical Itinerary Length	Best For	Average Price (Per Person, 7 Days)
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Bliss, Jewel, Pride of America	7–14 days	Families, first-time cruisers	$1,200–$1,800
Princess Cruises	Emerald Princess, Discovery Princess	14–16 days	Culture lovers, retirees	$1,500–$2,200
Royal Caribbean	Radiance of the Seas	11–14 days	Thrill-seekers, families	$1,400–$2,000
Holland America	Eurodam, Koningsdam	14–21 days	Educational travel, couples	$1,600–$2,500
Crystal Cruises	Crystal Symphony, Serenity	11–14 days	Luxury travelers, foodies	$4,000–$8,000
Windstar Cruises	Star Breeze, Wind Spirit	10–14 days	Adventure seekers, couples	$3,500–$6,000

Expert Tips for Booking

• Book 6–12 months in advance: Hawaii cruises sell out quickly, especially during peak season (December–April).
• Consider shoulder seasons: May and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds.
• Check port schedules: Some ships dock in Hilo; others in Kona. Choose based on your interests (volcanoes vs. coffee farms).
• Pack smart: Bring reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and a light jacket for evenings on deck.
• Look for promotions: Many lines offer “free airfare,” “kids sail free,” or onboard credit deals.

Whether you’re drawn to the lively energy of NCL, the cultural depth of Princess, or the luxury of Crystal, there’s a cruise line that can make your Hawaiian dreams come true. The key is to match your travel style with the right itinerary and ship. As the saying goes, “Hawaii is not a place, it’s a feeling”—and arriving by sea only deepens that magic. So, what cruise lines go to Hawaii? Now you know the top options. All that’s left is to book your voyage, pack your aloha shirt, and set sail for paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines go to Hawaii for a 7-day vacation?

Majestic cruise lines like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line offer popular 7-day Hawaii itineraries. These cruises often depart from the West Coast and include stops at Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Which cruise lines go to Hawaii with inter-island sailings?

Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line are top choices for inter-island Hawaii cruises, allowing you to explore multiple islands without repacking. These sailings typically include overnight stays in key ports like Honolulu and Lahaina.

Are there luxury cruise lines that visit Hawaii?

Yes, luxury options include Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Crystal Cruises, which offer all-inclusive Hawaii voyages. These cruises feature gourmet dining, spacious suites, and curated shore excursions for a premium experience.

Do any cruise lines go to Hawaii from the East Coast?

Most Hawaii-bound cruises depart from the West Coast, but some repositioning cruises by Carnival and Royal Caribbean sail from the East Coast seasonally. These longer voyages (14+ days) often include Panama Canal crossings.

What cruise lines go to Hawaii with family-friendly amenities?

Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Disney Cruise Line cater to families with kids’ clubs, water slides, and Hawaiian-themed activities. Their itineraries include ports perfect for snorkeling, luaus, and volcano tours.

Can I find small-ship cruise lines that go to Hawaii?

Small-ship options like UnCruise Adventures and Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic offer intimate Hawaii sailings with adventure-focused itineraries. These cruises access remote areas and focus on wildlife, culture, and eco-tourism.