Embark on a Hawaii cruise for an enchanting blend of adventure and relaxation amidst the Pacific’s sparkling waters. Imagine gliding past cascading waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches, all while enjoying the comforts of a floating retreat.
With opportunities to experience the rich cultural tapestry and stunning scenery of the islands, these 10 cruises — selected by an expert panel and voted by readers as the best — offer unique ways to see the diverse beauty of this tropical paradise.
No. 10: Hawaii Cruise from Vancouver on Celebrity Edge – Celebrity Cruises
Sailing aboard the contemporary and luxurious Celebrity Edge, the 13-night voyage launches with stunning coastal scenery of the Pacific Northwest before sailing to the tropical paradise of the Hawaiian Islands. On board, experience the rooftop garden, numerous dining options, and the world’s first cantilevered platform, supporting the Magic Carpet, which travels 13 stories above sea level to become a specialty restaurant or a concert venue.
No. 9: Hawaii from Los Angeles on Carnival Radiance – Carnival Cruise Line
Embarking from the convenient West Coast port of Long Beach, the 14-day voyage aboard the renovated Carnival Radiance offers an incredible opportunity to experience historic villages and the dormant Haleakala volcano on Maui, famous beaches of Honolulu, laid-back Hilo, and Hawaii’s oldest and greenest island, Kauai. On board, enjoy comedy shows, a spa, the SportSquare with basketball and mini-golf, adults-only retreats, and dining at a myriad of delicious restaurants.
No. 8: Hawaiian Islands on Ruby Princess – Princess Cruises
The Hawaiian Islands cruise aboard Ruby Princess offers plenty of time to immerse travelers in each of four island’s distinctive topography, culture, and history. Choose from among nearly 30 excursions in Honolulu alone, from a leisurely scenic drive of the coast to a challenging Diamond Head hike. On board the stylish ship, attend a stargazing session, learn to strum a ukulele or hula dance, and take in some excellent shows.
No. 7: Circle Hawaii on Zaandam – Holland America Line
This leisurely 17-day voyage aboard the elegant mid-sized Zaandam fully immerses cruisers in the beauty and culture of all four main islands: Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, and Kauai. Visit Haleakala volcano on Maui and experience Waimea Canyon (the Grand Canyon of the Pacific) on Kauai. Climb aboard a sub or snorkel for views of otherworldly coral reef gardens. And check out all of the musical instruments on the ship, signed by Queen, Iggy Pop, Eric Clapton, and the Rolling Stones.
No. 6: Grand Hawaii & Polynesia on Viking Neptune – Viking Ocean Cruises
With Viking’s signature focus on cultural immersion, the 33-day voyage aboard the award-winning Viking Neptune features engaging lectures from experts and shore excursions promising an authentic experience at each destination. See Oahu by helicopter, hike Diamond Head, whale watch on Maui, and go on a rum safari on Kauai before sailing to the idyllic islands of French Polynesia.
No. 5: Hawaiian Islands on Grand Princess – Princess Cruises
Thanks to an unhurried 16-day itinerary with ample time in each port, guests can discover legendary attractions and striking landscapes like black sand beaches, waterfalls, tropical rainforest, and imposing volcanoes. Days at sea are filled with a wide array of global cuisine, swimming pools, enrichment programs, cooking demonstrations, dance classes, a number of activities at the Sports Court, and watching original musical productions and blockbuster movies.
No. 4: 46-Day Hawaii, South Pacific, New Zealand & Australia on Seabourn Quest – Seabourn Cruise Line
There’s one word for this voyage aboard the ultra-luxurious Seabourn Quest: epic! Cruisers experience the natural beauty and rich cultural tapestries of Hawaii, the idyllic South Pacific islands, New Zealand, and Australia while indulging in the sumptuous amenities of a world-class cruise line. Excursions include Maui’s windsurfing havens, following the famous 64-mile-long Hana Highway, visiting Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut factory, and experiencing iconic beaches, volcanoes, and historical sites.
No. 3: Alaska & Hawaii: Skagway, Juneau and Maui on Norwegian Sun – Norwegian Cruise Line
This distinctive itinerary offers travelers the chance to experience stark contrasts, highlighting the raw beauty of Alaska’s glaciers and rugged wilderness as well as the tropical paradise of Hawaii. You’ll experience two vastly different but equally spectacular destinations in one memorable voyage. Unwind on the sun-drenched beaches of Maui, experience rich Hawaiian culture, and hike or kayak amid rainforests and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
No. 2: Hawaii: On Norwegian Pride of America – Norwegian Cruise Line
The only seven-day cruise sailing to four islands year-round, Hawaii: On Norwegian Pride of America includes overnight stays in Maui and Kauai, so there’s plenty of time to explore bucket-list attractions. Excursions include the famed Hana Highway (that you don’t have to navigate on your own), visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, festive luaus, and rafting, zip line, and snorkeling adventures.
No. 1: Hawaiian Seascapes Cruise on Safari Explorer – UnCruise Adventures
This boutique yacht that accommodates only 36 guests cruises between four islands: Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. Visiting secluded spots that are often inaccessible to larger ships, the adventure focuses on the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the islands, with opportunities for an evening feast and Hawaiian jam session with Molokai locals, volcano hikes, and night snorkeling with giant Pacific manta rays.
