Are you planning a dream Hawaiian vacation and considering a cruise? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right cruise line.
Each cruise line offers its unique experience, from onboard activities to excursions and dining options. In this article, we will explore which cruise line is best for Hawaii.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is one of the most popular cruise lines for Hawaii. They offer seven-day cruises departing from Honolulu and visiting Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. NCL’s Pride of America ship is the only one that sails exclusively in Hawaii all year round.
Pros:
- Unique Itinerary: NCL’s itinerary includes four different Hawaiian islands in seven days, allowing travellers to experience more of Hawaii.
- Freestyle Dining: NCL offers freestyle dining, giving travellers the flexibility to eat whenever they want without being tied down to a specific dining time or table.
Cons:
- Expensive: NCL’s cruises tend to be more expensive than other cruise lines due to their exclusive itinerary.
- Crowded: As Pride of America is one of the few ships sailing in Hawaii year-round and is popular among travellers; it can get crowded at times.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offer 15-day cruises departing from Los Angeles or San Francisco that visit four Hawaiian islands along with Ensenada in Mexico. Their itinerary also includes several days at sea.
Pros:
- Variety of Destinations: Princess Cruises offer an extensive itinerary that includes several days at sea along with four Hawaiian islands and Ensenada in Mexico.
- Multigenerational Appeal: Princess Cruises cater to all age groups and is perfect for multigenerational vacations.
Cons:
- Longer Duration: Princess Cruises offer longer cruises, which may not be suitable for travellers who have limited vacation time.
- No Freestyle Dining: Unlike NCL, Princess Cruises do not offer freestyle dining, and travellers will have to stick to a specific dining time and table.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line offers 17-day cruises departing from Vancouver or Seattle that visit four Hawaiian islands along with Tahiti, Fiji, and Samoa.
Pros:
- Exotic Itinerary: Holland America Line’s itinerary includes several exotic destinations in addition to Hawaii.
- Luxury Experience: Holland America Line offers a more luxurious experience compared to other cruise lines.
Cons:
- Expensive: Holland America Line’s cruises tend to be more expensive than other cruise lines due to their exclusive itinerary and luxury experience.
- No Freestyle Dining: Like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line does not offer freestyle dining options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, each cruise line offers its unique experience. If you prefer an exclusive itinerary with four Hawaiian islands in seven days, then Norwegian Cruise Line may be the best option for you.
If you are looking for an extensive itinerary that includes several days at sea along with four Hawaiian islands and Ensenada in Mexico, then Princess Cruises may be the best option. And if you are looking for a luxury experience with a mix of Hawaii and exotic destinations like Tahiti, Fiji and Samoa then Holland America Line might just be what you’re looking for.
No matter which cruise line you choose, Hawaii is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Happy cruising!