What Cruise Lines Sail the Hawaiian Islands for Your Next Adventure

Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Carnival Cruise Line are among the top cruise lines sailing the Hawaiian Islands, offering immersive itineraries that highlight the archipelago’s stunning landscapes and rich culture. With options ranging from week-long inter-island voyages to longer Pacific crossings, these cruise lines provide unforgettable adventures complete with authentic luaus, volcanic hikes, and world-class onboard amenities.

Key Takeaways

• Major cruise lines like Norwegian, Princess, and Holland America sail the Hawaiian Islands year-round.
• Choose round-trip cruises from the West Coast for convenience or inter-island voyages for deeper exploration.
• Norwegian Cruise Line offers the longest itineraries, including 14-day Hawaiian island-hopping adventures.
• Book early for peak season (December–April) to secure cabins and better fares.
• Look for themed cruises featuring luaus, cultural tours, and snorkeling excursions for immersive experiences.

What Cruise Lines Sail the Hawaiian Islands for Your Next Adventure

Picture this: turquoise waters lapping against volcanic shores, the scent of plumeria in the air, and the rhythmic strum of a ukulele as you sail past lush green cliffs. The Hawaiian Islands aren’t just a destination—they’re a sensory experience, and cruising through this Pacific paradise offers a front-row seat to its magic. Whether you’re dreaming of sipping mai tais under a Maui sunset, hiking the Napali Coast from Kauai, or exploring the Big Island’s lava fields, a cruise lets you island-hop effortlessly while enjoying the luxury of a floating resort. But with so many options, how do you choose the right cruise line for your Hawaiian adventure?

The Hawaiian Islands are a dreamy mosaic of landscapes, cultures, and activities, and each cruise line offers a unique lens through which to experience them. From intimate luxury voyages to family-friendly megaships, there’s a perfect fit for every traveler. In this guide, we’ll dive into the top cruise lines sailing the Hawaiian Islands, compare itineraries, highlight must-see ports, and share insider tips to help you book the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned seafarer, this post will equip you with everything you need to know to navigate the Aloha State by sea.

Why Choose a Hawaiian Islands Cruise?

The Allure of Island-Hopping Without the Hassle

Hawaii’s eight main islands are scattered across 1,500 miles of ocean, making inter-island travel by air time-consuming and expensive. A cruise solves this problem by letting you wake up in a new destination each day—no packing, unpacking, or flight delays. For example, Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America offers a 7-night round-trip itinerary from Honolulu, visiting Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai without ever requiring you to board a plane. This seamless island-hopping is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring.

Unique Experiences Only Accessible by Sea

Cruise ships often dock in ports that are off-limits to most tourists, offering exclusive access to hidden gems. Princess Cruises’ Star Princess, for instance, calls at Nawiliwili Harbor in Kauai, where you can join a small-group kayak tour to the secret sea caves of the Napali Coast. Similarly, Holland America’s Koningsdam offers a “Hawaiian Lūʻau at Sea” experience, where you can learn to hula under the stars while surrounded by the Pacific.

Value for Money and All-Inclusive Perks

Hawaii’s high cost of living can strain budgets, but cruises often bundle accommodations, meals, and entertainment into one price. Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas includes a “Hawaiian Cultural Ambassador” program with free lei-making classes and ukulele lessons. Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas include airfare, shore excursions, and even spa credits in their fares. For families, Carnival’s Radiance offers kids’ clubs, water parks, and affordable balcony staterooms, making it a budget-friendly way to see multiple islands.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing the Hawaiian Islands

Norwegian Cruise Line: The Island-Hopping Specialist

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is the undisputed leader in Hawaiian cruising, with its Pride of America being the only ship offering year-round 7-night inter-island itineraries. The ship’s U.S.-flagged status (allowing it to sail between American ports without a foreign stop) means you can explore four islands in one week: Oahu, Maui, the Big Island (Kona and Hilo), and Kauai. The itinerary is designed to maximize time on land, with late departures (often 10 PM) so you can enjoy sunset luaus or night markets.

Key features:

• Unique Itinerary: Only cruise line offering true inter-island round-trips from Honolulu.
• Flexible Dining: 12 restaurants with no fixed seating times—ideal for early risers and night owls.
• Local Flavors: Onboard Hawaiian chefs prepare fresh poke, kalua pork, and haupia desserts.

Pro tip: Book a balcony room for unobstructed views of Kauai’s cliffs at sunrise. Avoid the “Freestyle Dining” package if you prefer a quieter, more traditional meal experience.

Princess Cruises: The Cultural Immersion Experts

Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, specializes in “destination-intensive” itineraries that focus on local culture. The Star Princess and Grand Princess sail 10- to 14-night round-trips from Los Angeles, San Francisco, or Vancouver, with extended port stays (e.g., 12 hours in Hilo). The line’s “Discovery at SEA” program includes partnerships with the Polynesian Cultural Center and Bishop Museum, offering lectures on Hawaiian history and geology.

Standout features:

• Overnight in Honolulu: Gives you time to visit Pearl Harbor or hike Diamond Head.
• Hawaiian Cultural Ambassadors: Onboard staff teach lei-making, hula, and ukulele.
• Shore Excursions: Options like a helicopter tour of the Big Island’s volcanoes or a Maui whale-watching cruise.

Insider tip: The “MedallionClass” wearable device lets you order drinks to your deck chair or unlock your cabin with a tap—perfect for beach-hopping days.

Royal Caribbean: The Family-Friendly Adventure

Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas sails 10- to 12-night Hawaiian itineraries from Los Angeles, combining island stops with days at sea. The ship’s “Adventure Ocean” kids’ club, surf simulator, and 10-deck-high rock wall make it a hit with families. Adults can enjoy the “Vintages” wine bar or the “H2O Zone” water park.

Why families love it:

• Kid-Friendly Ports: Maui’s beaches and Kauai’s snorkeling spots are ideal for all ages.
• Onboard Activities: From cooking classes to laser tag, there’s no shortage of entertainment.
• Affordable Suites: Spacious family cabins with pull-out beds and balconies.

Pro tip: Book the “Ultimate Beverage Package” to save on mai tais and local Kona coffee.

Holland America: The Luxury and Relaxation Choice

Holland America’s Koningsdam and Eurodam offer 14-night round-trips from San Diego, with a focus on relaxation and refined experiences. The line’s “Signature Suite” guests get priority tender access, concierge service, and a private dining room. Onboard, you’ll find a “Hawaiian Spa” with lomilomi massage, a “Music Walk” with live jazz, and a “Culinary Arts Center” where local chefs demonstrate island cuisine.

Highlights:

• Smaller Ships: Less crowded than megaships, with a more intimate vibe.
• Enrichment Programs: Lectures on Hawaiian mythology and astronomy.
• Shore Excursions: Options like a private catamaran charter in Kauai.

Insider tip: Book a “Verandah Suite” for a private balcony with a hot tub—perfect for watching whales breach at dawn.

Regent Seven Seas: The All-Inclusive Luxury Option

For travelers seeking a high-end experience, Regent Seven Seas’ Seven Seas Mariner sails 14-night Hawaiian voyages from Los Angeles, with fares that include airfare, unlimited shore excursions, and a pre-cruise hotel night. The ship’s “Hawaiian Cultural Immersion” program features a private luau on Oahu, a visit to a Kona coffee farm, and a sunset sail in Maui.

Why it’s worth the splurge:

• All-Inclusive Perks: No extra fees for specialty dining or excursions.
• Intimate Size: Only 700 passengers—no lines for tenders or elevators.
• Exclusive Access: Small-group tours to places like the Parker Ranch on the Big Island.

Pro tip: Request a cabin on Deck 11 for unobstructed views of the Napali Coast from your private balcony.

Must-See Ports and Shore Excursions

Oahu: Where History Meets Urban Energy

Honolulu, the gateway to Hawaii, offers a mix of urban charm and historical depth. Don’t miss:

• Pearl Harbor: Book the “USS Arizona Memorial” tour (included on most Princess and NCL itineraries).
• Waikīkī Beach: Rent a surfboard or take a sunset catamaran cruise.
• Kualoa Ranch: Visit the filming location of Jurassic Park on a jungle jeep tour.

Insider tip: Skip the crowded beaches and hike the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail for panoramic ocean views.

Maui: The Island of Adventure and Beauty

Maui’s diverse landscapes make it a cruiser’s paradise. Top excursions:

• Road to Hāna: A scenic drive with waterfalls, bamboo forests, and black-sand beaches (book a guided tour for safety).
• Haleakalā National Park: Watch the sunrise from the 10,000-foot summit (requires a reservation).
• Snorkeling at Molokini Crater: A crescent-shaped islet teeming with tropical fish.

Pro tip: Visit the Old Lahaina Lūʻau for an authentic Hawaiian dinner show—book early, as it sells out fast.

Big Island: Volcanoes and Waterfalls

Hawaii’s youngest island is a geological wonder. Must-dos:

• Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park: See active lava flows (check the park’s website for eruption updates).
• Mauna Kea: Stargaze from one of the world’s best observatories (book a sunset tour).
• Kona Coffee Farms: Tour a plantation and sample the world-famous brew.

Insider tip: The “Hawaiian Ocean Project” in Kailua-Kona offers dolphin encounters in their natural habitat.

Kauai: The Garden Isle

Kauai’s lush landscapes are best explored by boat or helicopter. Highlights:

• Na Pali Coast: Kayak or take a catamaran cruise to the towering cliffs.
• Waimea Canyon: “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific” (book a guided hike).
• Hanalei Bay: A postcard-perfect beach for surfing or picnicking.

Pro tip: The Smith Family Garden Luau in Līhuʻe includes a tram ride through tropical gardens.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for You

Family-Friendly vs. Adult-Oriented

Families should prioritize lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival, which offer kids’ clubs, water parks, and flexible dining. Couples and solo travelers might prefer Holland America or Regent, with their quieter ambiance and enrichment programs. For example, Carnival’s Radiance has a “Camp Ocean” program for kids, while Regent’s Seven Seas Mariner has a “Culinary Arts Center” for foodies.

Itinerary Length and Port Stops

Short trips (7 nights) are ideal for first-time cruisers or those with limited time, but longer voyages (10+ nights) let you explore more deeply. NCL’s 7-night itinerary is perfect for a quick getaway, while Princess’ 14-night cruise includes stops in Hilo and Lahaina, giving you time to hike or snorkel.

Onboard Experience and Dining

Foodies should consider Regent (all-inclusive gourmet dining) or NCL (12 restaurants with local flavors). Budget-conscious travelers might prefer Carnival’s “Cheers!” beverage package. For entertainment, Royal Caribbean’s Broadway shows and Princess’ “Discovery at SEA” programs stand out.

Budget and Value

Entry-level fares start at $1,000/person for Carnival’s Radiance, while Regent’s all-inclusive packages can exceed $10,000. Consider hidden costs: NCL’s “Pride of America” requires a $200+ “gratuities” fee per person, while Regent covers everything. Use the table below to compare:

Cruise Line	Ship	Itinerary Length	Starting Fare (pp)	Key Perks
Norwegian	Pride of America	7 nights	$1,800	Year-round inter-island sailings, 12 restaurants
Princess	Star Princess	14 nights	$2,200	Overnight in Honolulu, cultural ambassadors
Royal Caribbean	Navigator of the Seas	10 nights	$1,500	Kids’ clubs, surf simulator, family suites
Holland America	Koningsdam	14 nights	$2,500	Luxury spa, enrichment programs, small ships
Regent Seven Seas	Seven Seas Mariner	14 nights	$7,500	All-inclusive, unlimited excursions, private balconies

Insider Tips for Booking Your Hawaiian Cruise

Best Time to Sail

Peak season (December–April) offers calm seas and whale-watching, but prices are 20–30% higher. For lower fares, consider shoulder seasons (May–June or September–November). Avoid hurricane season (August–October) if possible, though Hawaii is rarely hit directly.

How to Save Money

• Book Early: Early-bird deals can save 15–20% (e.g., NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion).
• Use a Travel Agent: Many offer onboard credits or free upgrades.
• Skip the Drink Package: If you don’t drink alcohol, buy drinks à la carte.

Packing Essentials

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Hawaii bans oxybenzone and octinoxate.
• Water Shoes: For rocky beaches like Kauai’s Queen’s Bath.
• Light Layers: Evenings can be cool, especially at sea.

Port Arrival Tips

Arrive at least one day early to avoid flight delays. Most ships depart Honolulu around 4 PM, so you’ll have time for a morning hike or beach visit. Use the ship’s tender service (small boats that shuttle you to shore) early to avoid crowds.

A Hawaiian Islands cruise isn’t just a vacation—it’s a journey through a land of fire, water, and aloha. Whether you choose NCL’s island-hopping efficiency, Princess’ cultural depth, or Regent’s all-inclusive luxury, you’re guaranteed unforgettable memories. By selecting the right cruise line, planning your excursions, and following our insider tips, you’ll unlock the true spirit of Hawaii. So raise a glass of pineapple juice (or mai tai) to your next adventure—the islands are waiting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What cruise lines sail the Hawaiian Islands for a tropical getaway?

Several major cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean, offer itineraries to the Hawaiian Islands. These voyages often feature stops at Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, combining relaxation with cultural exploration.

Which cruise lines offer inter-island Hawaiian cruises?

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is the only ship dedicated solely to inter-island Hawaiian cruises, sailing year-round with stops at four islands. Smaller luxury lines like UnCruise Adventures also provide intimate inter-island experiences.

Are there luxury cruise lines that sail the Hawaiian Islands?

Yes, luxury options include Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Seabourn. These lines offer all-inclusive fares, upscale dining, and immersive excursions, perfect for travelers seeking a refined Hawaiian adventure.

What cruise lines sail the Hawaiian Islands with family-friendly amenities?

Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean cater to families with kids’ clubs, water slides, and Hawaiian-themed activities. Their longer itineraries often include stops at iconic ports like Honolulu and Hilo.

Do any cruise lines offer round-trip voyages from the West Coast to Hawaii?

Princess Cruises and Holland America Line operate round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco. These 10- to 16-day voyages combine sea days with island exploration, ideal for first-time cruisers.

What’s the best time of year to book a Hawaiian Islands cruise?

Peak season runs from April to October, with warm weather and fewer storms. For lower prices, consider shoulder seasons (March or November), though some cruise lines reduce sailings during winter months.