Finding Perfect Cruises to Hawaii

Organizing cruises to Hawaii is relatively simple, but here's a couple of tips for you inexperienced cruisers.

Finding a Cruise

Cruises to Hawaii differ according to cruise line and cruise location. Your cruise experience will also depend on how much money you pay. If you go all out and get all of the bells and whistles — first class cabins, cocktail hour, etc. — your cruise will be different than someone who decides to stay in the cheapest room. No matter what cruise package you decide to get, you'll have a good time.

After you've made the decision to go on a Hawaiian cruise, get on the Internet, talk to travel agents and call the cruise lines about booking a trip. By using all of these resources, you should be able to find a financially manageable cruise.

When comparing cruises, don't forget to look at cruise excursions. Most cruise ships offer their guests an opportunity to get some kind of "cultural" experience at each port. This might include a walk through the jungle or a meal made by an island native. You're not required to buy these excursion packages (they're usually purchased separately), but it might enhance your experience.

Getting to Hawaii

When you're booking your cruise to Hawaii, do not forget to book a plane ticket to Hawaii. Hawaiian cruise ships take off from different ports, but the ports are located in Hawaii so you have to get there first.

Different Ports

Hawaiian cruises stop at multiple ports on different islands in Hawaii. The time you spend at each port will depend on how long your cruise is. Cruises typically last for seven, 10 or 11 days.

All Hawaiian cruise ports offer different things. Honolulu is the capital of the state. It's also a common launch site for Hawaiian cruises because many people fly to Honolulu when they're going to Hawaii. On Honolulu you will find Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach and plenty of shopping.

Hilo is one of Hawaii's islands and is a common cruise port. Hilo has the Pacific Tsunami Museum, local cafes and shops, lovely gardens and great street markets. If Hilo is on your cruise itinerary, don't forget your rain jacket! Hilo gets 130 inches of rain a year and is one of the wettest spots in the United States!

Kailua-Kona is totally different than Hilo. It's hot and dry because it was created from an old volcano. It is the Kona Coast's busiest visitor destination.

Kahului is in the heart of Maui's business district and is Maui's only deep-water port. Because this port is so large, it's long been an export stop for Hawaii's pineapples and sugar resources.

You're not going to get to these lovely ports if you do not have your passport. So, before you leave the states, make sure you have an updated passport with you. Without it, you will not be enjoying any cruises to Hawaii!