A cruise is a popular way to take in all that the Hawaiian islands have to offer. Cruise lines port on four major islands: Oahu, the Big Island, Maui and Kauai. While on your vacation, you may enjoy what your particular cruise line offers while on board, but chances are you will want to get out and enjoy the tropical scenery. Book excursions through your cruise line or through other local agencies.
Oahu
Most Hawaiian cruises depart from Oahu, so you may schedule your activities on this island outside of the cruise altogether. Popular destinations on this island include museums like the Missouri Battleship Memorial that commemorates the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, and the Bishop Museum that houses artifacts like historical heirlooms from the Hawaiian royal dynasty. You can also take a number of tours from everything to sharks and dolphins to the set of the "Lost" TV series. Take lessons in skydiving, surfing, snorkeling and jet-skiing.
Big Island
On the Big Island, try parasailing, snorkeling, jet-skiing, scuba diving or touring a submarine if you want to be out on the water. On land, you can go on a Mauna Kea mountain-climbing adventure guided by a specialist who can point out astronomical features in the night sky. Or, enjoy the mountain and beach scenery with a horseback riding tour. If you port at Hilo, take a helicopter tour or rent a car to see the lava flows of Kilauea Volcano.
Maui
Sightseeing the breathtaking scenery is the main attraction on the island of Maui. A bicycle tour allows you to take it all in, either during sunrise or on an all-day trip. You can also hike for some similar views or tour through the waterfalls and rain forests. Go snorkeling, parasailing, jet-skiing, surfing and whale watching on the water. You can also choose from a variety of luau celebrations, and enjoy local cuisine and customs. Visit and explore the caves of Kaeleku Caverns. Finally, you can enjoy aerial views from helicopter tours that specialize in giving passengers close looks at the mountains and waterfalls.
Kauai
Popular activities here are actually above the island. Helicopter tours and ziplines give you stunning views of jungles and mountains. Out on the water, you can take lessons in snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and fresh or saltwater kayaking. On land, go on an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) tour or take a guided hike or horseback riding trip through jungles and waterfalls.
Seasonal Activities
When planning your cruise trip, you may also want to consider the time of year because some island activities are only available seasonally. In the winter, from approximately November to February, you can catch a glimpse of humpback whales during their annual migration. Spring, from about March to May, is the time of year to catch the islands' cultural festivals. During the summer, from June to August, is a popular travel time for families, so cruise lines often offer more family-friendly activities. In the fall, from approximately September to October, less rain falls in the region, so you can enjoy more outdoor activities without as much concern about getting wet.
Member Comments