Is a Cruise the Best Way to See Hawaii?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a trip to Hawaii and wondering if a cruise is the best way to see the islands? The answer is not a simple yes or no. There are many factors to consider before making this decision.

Pros of taking a cruise to Hawaii

  • Convenience: A cruise provides an easy and stress-free way to see multiple islands without having to worry about transportation logistics. You only need to unpack once and your floating hotel takes you from one destination to the next.
  • Value for money: Cruises often include meals, entertainment, and activities in their package price, making it a cost-effective way to experience Hawaii.
  • Scenic views: Cruises offer stunning panoramic views of the Hawaiian coastline that you can’t get any other way.

Cons of taking a cruise to Hawaii

  • Limited time on each island: The biggest downside of cruising Hawaii is that you only get a few hours on each island. This means you won’t have enough time to truly explore and experience all that each place has to offer.
  • Crowds: Cruise ships can be crowded and busy, especially during peak season.

    This can make it difficult to fully enjoy some of the onboard activities or relax in peace on deck.

  • Limited flexibility: When traveling by cruise ship, your schedule is dictated by the ship’s itinerary. You won’t have much freedom to explore at your own pace or make last-minute changes.

Alternative ways to see Hawaii

If cruising isn’t for you, there are other ways to experience Hawaii that may be more suitable:

Island hopping by plane:

If you want to spend more time on each island and have the freedom to explore at your own pace, island hopping by plane is a great option. It gives you the flexibility to choose where you go and for how long.

Driving:

Renting a car and driving around the islands is another popular way to see Hawaii. This allows you to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that most tourists miss.

Tour packages:

Joining a tour package can be an excellent way to experience Hawaii’s highlights without worrying about logistics. You’ll have an experienced guide who can take you to all the must-see spots and give you insider knowledge.

Conclusion

In conclusion, whether a cruise is the best way to see Hawaii depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize convenience, value for money, and scenic views, then cruising may be right for you.

However, if you prefer more flexibility and time on each island, then other options like island hopping or driving may be better suited. Ultimately, no matter which option you choose, Hawaii will not disappoint!