Explore the Paradise of Hawaii with Cruise1st
Hawaii is a tropical paradise where lush greenery, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture collide! From the iconic peaks of Diamond Head to the stunning waterfalls of Kauai, this idyllic archipelago offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Did you know that Hawaii is the only U.S. state that grows coffee? The rich volcanic soil and perfect climate make it a haven for producing premium coffee. A cruise to Hawaii gives you the opportunity to explore multiple islands, each with its own charm and character, allowing you to soak up the sun and culture without all the travel hassle!
Major Cruise Lines Offering Adventures in Hawaii
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Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America offers 5 that cruise to Hawaii, including the Zaandam and Koningsdam. These ships are celebrated for their exceptional culinary experiences, offering dishes inspired by the local flavours of the Hawaiian islands! Sailings often depart from international ports such as Vancouver or San Diego, making it easy for cruisers from Australia to reach the paradise they’ve dreamed of.
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Princess Cruises: With 17 ships, Princess has 7 that take you to Hawaii, most notably the Ruby Princess and Island Princess. Known for their onboard entertainment and diverse dining options, these vessels ensure that your journey is just as enjoyable as the destination. Cruises often set sail from Los Angeles or San Francisco, providing easy access to the beauty of Hawaii.
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Norwegian Cruise Line: Featuring 20 ships in total, Norwegian has 3 that sail to Hawaii—Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Spirit rise to the top. These ships are known for their relaxed, freestyle dining options and a wide variety of entertainment. Departures often take place from Honolulu or Papeete, giving cruisers an exciting start to their Hawaiian adventure!
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Cunard: With a total fleet of 4, Cunard offers 2 ships that cruise to Hawaii, with the Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2. Renowned for their elegance and attention to detail, Cunard ships are perfect for luxury travellers. Most cruises depart from San Francisco or New York, making it a stylish embarkation point for your Hawaiian getaway.
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Celebrity Cruises: This line has a fleet of 16, with 2 ships—the Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Edge—offering itineraries to Hawaii. These ships are known for their innovative design and culinary excellence. Departing from domestic ports like Sydney or international ports such as Honolulu, these cruises provide a fantastic introduction to Hawaii's stunning scenery and culture.
Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Hawaii
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Oceania Cruises: With a fleet size of 8 ships, Oceania has 5 that journey to Hawaii, such as the Regatta and Insignia. Known for their focus on fine dining and enriching cultural experiences, these cruises are perfect for gourmet food lovers. Departures typically occur from Papeete or Los Angeles, making it a great way to embark on a delightful adventure to Hawaii.
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Seabourn: Operating a fleet of 6, Seabourn offers 3 ships that cruise to Hawaii, including Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest. They provide an ultra-luxury experience, focusing on personalized service and all-inclusive comfort. Departures from Los Angeles or Papeete mean you can start your Hawaiian cruise in style.
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Silversea: With a total fleet size of 12, Silversea offers 3 ships—Silver Shadow and Silver Dawn—sailing to Hawaii. Silversea ships are known for their intimate atmosphere and all-suite accommodations, making it an exceptional choice for discerning travellers. Departures usually occur from Los Angeles or Papeete, giving you an exclusive route to paradise.
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Azamara Cruises: Azamara has 4 ships, with 1 ship—Azamara Onward—visiting Hawaii. These cruises focus on immersive experiences and longer port stays, allowing you to dive deeper into Hawaiian culture. Departing from San Diego, Azamara offers a delightful option for those looking to explore the islands more extensively.
Top Hawaiian Harbours to Discover
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Honolulu, Oahu: As the capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu is a bustling destination filled with iconic sites like Pearl Harbor and the famous Waikiki Beach. While docked, you can visit the historical USS Arizona Memorial, explore the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy watersports. There's also a plethora of dining options showcasing Hawaiian cuisine.
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Nawiliwili, Kauai: This charming harbour serves as a gateway to Kauai's stunning landscapes and natural beauty. In your limited time, cruise passengers can explore Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," or take a scenic tour by helicopter to see the breathtaking Na Pali Coast. Don't miss a chance to indulge in local dishes from the various food trucks nearby!
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Hilo, Hawaii: Famous for its lush surroundings, Hilo is known as the "rainiest city in the U.S." Marvel at the breathtaking Rainbow Falls or visit the stunning Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. If time allows, a visit to the nearby Volcanoes National Park offers the chance to see the mighty Kilauea volcano.
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Kailua-Kona, Hawaii: This lively town is famous for its coffee and stunning coastline. Spend your time exploring historic sites like the Hulihe'e Palace or relax at the beach. Don't forget to try some local Kona coffee! If you’re feeling adventurous, inquire about snorkeling tours to discover vibrant marine life.
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Kahului, Maui: Known as the gateway to Maui, Kahului is where you can embark on the famed Road to Hana and take in dramatic ocean views and lush rainforests. Visit the nearby Haleakalā National Park for sunrise or sunset views that will leave you spellbound. There are also wonderful shopping experiences at local markets, letting you take a piece of Hawaii home!
Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Hawaii
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San Diego, California: Known for its stunning coastal views and rich history, San Diego is a great starting point for cruises. Visit Balboa Park, home to world-class museums and gardens, or explore the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter for dining and nightlife. The local zoo is also a must-see!
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Papeete, Tahiti: Often included in Hawaiian itineraries, Papeete offers a bustling market atmosphere and breathtaking natural beauty. While docked, wander the local markets for fresh produce and crafts, or take a scenic drive to explore new beaches and waterfalls.
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Los Angeles, California: A vibrant city full of attractions, Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood, stunning beaches, and cultural sites. Visit iconic spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, or spend the day soaking up the sun at Santa Monica Pier.
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Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: This port city serves as a gateway to Rome, offering cruise guests incredible cultural experiences. Explore the ancient ruins, indulge in authentic Italian cuisine, and bask in the grandeur of the Vatican City.
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San Francisco, California: Famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, San Francisco is a scenic and culturally rich stop. Enjoy riding the cable cars, exploring Fisherman's Wharf, and sampling the delicious seafood cuisine.
Best Times to Cruise to Hawaii
Hawaii is a year-round destination, but here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you choose the best time to visit! From January to March, the winter months offer pleasant temperatures around 21-26°C, perfect for hiking and sightseeing without too much heat. April to June brings comfortable 25-30°C temperatures, making the islands even more inviting as the summer approaches. July to September is peak travel season, with temperatures reaching up to 30-32°C—ideal for beach activities and water sports. Finally, October to December sees temperatures cooling to around 22-28°C, making it a beautiful time to explore the islands with fewer crowds.
Pricing Overview for Hawaiian Cruises
A week-long cruise to Hawaii usually costs between $1,700 to $3,000 AUD, while cruises lasting two weeks can range from $3,500 to $5,500 AUD. For luxury travellers, expect week-long cruises to start around $5,000 AUD and go up to $10,000 AUD for a two-week voyage. Dining on board is typically included, but meals at local restaurants may cost around $25-$50 AUD, with drinks averaging about $10-$15 AUD.
Alternative Regions Worth Considering
If you're considering a cruise to Hawaii, you might also enjoy these captivating alternatives:
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Caribbean: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultures, the Caribbean offers a similar paradise vibe with a plethora of islands to explore. The warm weather and beautiful scenery make it an excellent alternative!
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South Pacific: With breathtaking islands like Fiji and Tahiti, this region offers stunning natural beauty and rich cultures, making it a dream destination for sun-seekers and adventure lovers alike.
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Alaska: For those yearning for a more rugged experience, Alaska's natural wonders and striking landscapes offer an incredible contrast to the islands of Hawaii, featuring glaciers, wildlife, and majestic mountains.
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Australia and New Zealand: From the stunning beaches of the Great Barrier Reef to the scenic landscapes of New Zealand's South Island, this region offers both adventure and relaxation in unique surroundings.
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Adriatic Sea: Known for its charming coastal towns and stunning views, the Adriatic Sea is another remarkable destination where guests can explore ancient history and enjoy delightful Mediterranean cuisine.
Are you ready to take the plunge into this tropical paradise? At Cruise1st, we're here to help you plan the perfect Hawaiian getaway that will leave you with memories to cherish forever!