princess cruises vancouver

Cruises from Vancouver

An outdoor playground teeming with adventure and awe.

On a cruise from Vancouver, experience cosmopolitan flair, natural splendor and diverse atmospheres without ever leaving the city. Relive history during a visit to Gastown, and shop the markets at Granville Island — known as one of the world’s greatest places. Then set sail to storied cities in Alaska, Hawaii or the California Coast, and indulge your every wanderlust. With Princess®, there’s no shortage of adventure.

Find the Best Cruises from Vancouver

Alaska Cruises

Glaciers, wildlife and mountains await you on a cruise from Vancouver to Alaska. Our roundtrip voyages bring you up close to untouched landmarks, and our one-way Voyage of the Glaciers offers two glacier-viewing opportunities, including Glacier Bay National Park. Fish for salmon in Ketchikan, meet sled dogs in Juneau and pan for gold in Skagway. Experience it all with the #1 cruise line in Alaska.

Find Cruises

Learn more about Alaska Cruises

California Coast Cruises

Visit major landmarks and cities along the West Coast on a cruise from Vancouver. Our Pacific Wine Country itineraries bring you to the vineyards of Napa Valley and to world-famous ports like Santa Barbara and Astoria. Revel in even more of the Golden State on our Classic California sailings that take you from San Francisco to San Diego with possible stops in Monterey and Los Angeles, depending on the itinerary.

Learn more about California Coast Cruises

Hawaii Cruises

On a cruise from Vancouver, unpack once and visit multiple Hawaiian Islands on a 15-day roundtrip adventure or a one-way itinerary ending in Honolulu. Drive through Waimea Canyon, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Or attend a sunset luau in Honolulu with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays included on every itinerary. Island hop with ease in a way that only Princess can offer.

Learn more about Hawaii Cruises

Getaway Cruises

With one- to five-day cruises from Vancouver, there’s always time for adventure. On a three-day itinerary to San Francisco, spend time in Victoria, B.C. before heading to the Golden Gate City. Enjoy two relaxing days at sea on a four-day itinerary to Los Angeles, or get a taste of the Great Land on a four-day Alaska Sampler to Juneau and Ketchikan. Savor the sweet taste of travel with Getaway cruises from Vancouver.

Learn more about Getaway Cruises

Tahiti & South Pacific Cruises

Tahiti and the islands of the South Pacific are the epitome of paradise. Think crystalline waters, thatch-lined bungalows and emerald mountains. On our 29-day cruise from Vancouver, cross from the islands of Hawaii to the South Pacific before sailing to New Zealand and Australia. Savor a combination of relaxing sea days and thrilling adventures ashore as you swim in freshwater cave pools or sip from hand-picked coconuts.

Learn more about Tahiti & South Pacific Cruises

What to Know About Cruises from Vancouver

Vancouver at a Glance

• Language: English and French
• Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
• Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (PST)
• Docking: Your cruise from Vancouver docks at Canada Place located in downtown Vancouver.
• Attire: We suggest dressing in layers as temperatures fluctuate throughout the year and even throughout the day. This includes a light shirt, sweater and jacket.
• Transportation: While taxis are available throughout the city, you can also get around by bus, ferry or light rail.

Things to Do in Vancouver

On a cruise from Vancouver, explore Stanley Park’s aquarium, totem poles and captivating gardens. Ascend the 430-foot Vancouver Lookout to see the city from above, or cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge for a fresh perspective on nature. Savor ramen and dim sum in North America’s second-largest Chinatown. Or spend the day browsing Robson Street’s designer boutiques, department stores and everything in between.

Ships that Cruise from Vancouver

Majestic Princess®

Majestic Princess® is the doorway to history, culture and wondrous destinations. Experience the best of dining and entertainment on a cruise from Vancouver.

Learn more about Majestic Princess | Find Cruises on Majestic Princess

Sapphire Princess®

Indulge on a cruise from Vancouver with Sapphire Princess®. Savor international cuisine, listen to regionally-inspired music and unwind at the award-winning Lotus Spa®. The possibilities are endless.

Learn more about Sapphire Princess | Find Cruises on Sapphire Princess

On a cruise from Vancouver, you can also enjoy best-in-class service and expert-crafted activities on board Discovery Princess®, Grand Princess®, Royal Princess®, and Crown Princess®.

Learn more about our ships | Find Cruises from Vancouver

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

Airplane to Ship Transfer

We get you where you need to go.

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

Learn more about transfers

Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

Stay longer and relax.

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise in Vancouver. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

View Cruise Plus Hotel Packages

You May Also Like

MedallionClass® On All Ships!

Next-level technology. More time for you. Your vacation – simplified, personalized.

New to cruising

First time cruising? Have questions? We have the answers so your first time will be nothing but smooth sailing.

Food & Dining

Award-winning and made from scratch.

Vancouver, BC, Canada

Cruises from Vancouver depart from spring through fall. Located on the southwestern coast of British Columbia, Vancouver is Canada's third most populous city. The bustling metropolis is known for its cultural diversity, which is on display in areas like Chinatown, brimming with authentic eateries and apothecaries. Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, exudes historic charm thanks to cobblestone streets and Victorian architecture harmoniously interspersed with trendy boutiques and galleries. Outdoor activities abound in the urban Stanley Park, home to gardens, beaches, trails, totem poles and the seawall amid a lush forested setting totaling about 1,000 acres. The city is a jumping-off point for whale-watching tours, which reward keen eyes with glimpses of orcas and humpback whales as well as pelicans, puffins and bald eagles. A short hop northward across the harbor into North Vancouver is Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where seven bridges and a cliff walk delight thrill-seekers.

Driving Directions and Parking Information Canada Place Ship Terminal 999 Canada Place Vancouver, BC, CANADA The Port of Vancouver is 25 minutes from Vancouver's International Airport (YVR). Parking is available at the Canada Place Ship Terminal for C$26.00 per day (for 3 days or more). Rates are subject to change by the Port Authority. Traveling North from I-5 - Take I-5 which will become Provincial Route 99 N. Take the Marine Drive West ramp. Stay straight to go onto SW Marine Drive. SW Marine Drive becomes Granville Street. Granville Street becomes Granville Street/ Granville Bridge. Take the HWY-99N/Seymour Street ramp towards BC ferries/Horseshoe Bay/Whistler. Stay straight to go onto Seymour Street. Turn left onto W Georgia Street. Turn right onto Burrard Street. Burrard Street becomes Burrard Place which becomes Waterfront Road W. The Ship Terminal should be visible from Waterfront Road.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Already Booked?
• My Favorites
• 1.800.377.9383
• Email Deals
• Personal Quote

• Advanced Search

• Featured Cruise Deals

• Deals by Destination

• Deals by Cruise Line

• Deals by Departure Port

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

• Family Cruise Deals

Popular Destinations

Australia/New Zealand

• Canada / New England

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Barcelona, Spain

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Reykjavik, Iceland

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Sydney, Australia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Venice, Italy

Popular U.S. Departure Ports

Baltimore, Maryland

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

Port Canaveral, Florida

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Popular Lines

Luxury Lines

River Lines

AmaWaterways

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Seabourn Cruise Line

Silversea Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Viking Expeditions

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Land Vacations

• Cosmos Tours
• Globus Journeys
• Kensington Tours
• Tauck Tours

All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruising 101

• Free Consultation

Why Cruise?

Shore Excursions

Cruising Tips

Future Cruise Credits

Photo Galleries

Specialty Cruises

Group Cruises

Business / Incentive Cruises

Events & Meetings at Sea

Private Charters

Theme Cruises

• River Cruises

Cruise Tours

Wedding Cruises

Hosted Cruises

Family Cruises

Senior Living at Sea

News & Media

Press & News

Testimonials

Social Media

Pre-registration

Passports / Visas

Travel Protection

Why Cruise Web?

Our Approach

Low Price Guarantee

Gift Certificates

Customer Service

Not sure where to start?

Talk to a travel consultant.

Free quotes. Expert guidance. No booking fees.

16 Night Hawaii Cruise

Best known for the Pacific Princess on the Love Boat, Princess Cruises has been a leading name in cruising and visits a wide range of destinations.

Hawaii holds cultural delights and tropical pleasures in store for your cruise vacation.

Whether it’s your cruise destination or a launching point, Vancouver is a beautiful destination in itself with a sophisticated downtown and lots of natural elements to explore.

• Ruby Princess - Passenger Capacity: 3,080 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2008 Last Refurbished: 2018

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

Cruise Line

Cruise Ship

Ruby Princess

Departing From

Destination

Ports of call.

Vancouver, British Columbia , Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii , Nawiliwili, Kauai , Hilo, Hawaii , Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Special Promotions*

Princess Cruises: up to 35% OFF and Kids Sail FREE

NEW! Choose from 3 Cruise Packages for Princess

Princess MedallionClass Vacation

Princess Cruises: up to $1,800 in Onboard Savings*

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit* - TCW Exclusive

Princess: up to $250 Onboard Credit for Military

• Itinerary & Pricing

16 Night Hawaii Cruise sailing on the Ruby Princess

Departure dates: sep 2024 - sep 2024.

From $1,348

Stateroom prices for Sep. 10, 2024

Published prices from

Based on Inside cabin prices

Based on Oceanview cabin prices

Based on Balcony cabin prices

Based on Suite cabin prices

Sailing Map

*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, & include NCCF. Government taxes & fees are additional. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

We Make Vacation Planning Easy

With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Find a cruise.

• All Cruise Types
• Popular Cruises
• Luxury Cruises

Vacation Deals

Destinations & ports.

• All Destinations

Cruise Lines

• Popular Cruise Lines
• Luxury Cruise Lines
• River Cruise Lines
• All Cruise Lines
• All About Cruising
• Already Booked

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.

• Monthly Newsletter

Princess Voyage of Glaciers NB Glacier Bay

Cruise Alaska’s most extraordinary waters, from the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay and beyond.

• Alaska Cruises
• Cruise Itineraries

Princess Cruises Voyage of the Glaciers from Vancouver

Cruise links.

• Cruise Routes
• Cruise Lines
• Best Cruises
• Cruise Advice

Find a Cruise >

The Voyage of Glaciers Alaskan cruise route explores more than 1,300 miles of coastline from the Inside Passage to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve to Prince William Sound. Along the way, the itinerary makes port calls in three lively and quite unique towns: colorful Ketchikan, the capital city of Juneau, and historic Skagway. Conveniently combine the cruise with a land tour starting in Whittier for a truly spectacular Alaskan vacation. Princess Cruises, one of the longest-running cruise lines in Alaska, exclusively runs this route out of Vancouver.

Daily Itinerary & Sailing Dates

Below is a general itinerary for this cruise. Note that there are variations in the exact cruise itinerary between sailing dates. Ports of call, route, and details will vary. Be sure to request a cruise quote using the links below or with our cruise finder to see the most up to date information for the particular voyage you are interested in.

• Collapse All

Sometimes called "The City of Neighborhoods," Vancouver is a multicultural destination on the Pacific Rim with a distinctive west coast vibe. Passengers easily fill two or three days exploring those neighborhoods and the city's surrounding natural areas before embarking on their cruise.

Marine wildlife abounds in the protected waters of the Inside Passage, a labyrinth of fjords, channels, islands, and bays through which this route passes during the first full day at sea.

The route reaches Ketchikan for the first of three port calls on the itinerary. The colorful town is known for its abundant fishing and collection of authentic totem poles, but the surrounding area is also a haven for wildlife. Learn more about Southeast Alaska's 15,000 bald eagles at the Alaska Raptor Center, or head out into the wilderness on a whale or bear viewing excursion.

Along with glacier flightseeing and mining tours, while in port at Juneau, cruisers can also visit the surprising and stunning Glacier Gardens. The botanical garden is especially unique because of its location within the Tongass National Forest.

Step back in time to the Klondike Gold Rush days during this port call in Skagway. Hop on a bus or train and travel over the mountain pass into the Yukon Territory for an adventure both scenic and historic.

Abundant marine life resides within Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. On this full day cruising the park, it is possible to see humpback whales, puffins, sea otters, harbor seals, and even bears on the coastline.

Continuing north, the route passes into the fjords of northwestern Prince William Sound. The area's tidewater glaciers were all named after Ivy League colleges during the Harriman Expedition in 1899. College Fjord is considered one of the most scenic in the world.

The itinerary concludes in this tiny port town at the end of Passage Canal. Whittier offers the closest deep-water port to Anchorage, which is only 60 scenic miles away, and reachable by both train and motorcoach.

• ICY STRAIT POINT
• CRUISE PICTURES
• START HERE: HOME

5 best Princess repositioning cruises in 2024 from Vancouver (September, fall months)

The Princess cruise ships that are in Vancouver in the summer are doing Alaska cruises. So they will be repositioning away from Vancouver at the end of the Alaska cruise season, which is September.

This means that the cruise before every one of these repositioning cruises listed below is an Alaska cruise, so look into booking a back-to-back cruise! You can go to Alaska before you start the repositioning cruise from Vancouver!

On a cost per day basis, repositioning cruises are some of the cheapest cruises you’ll find. Longer one-way cruises with lots of sea days tend to be cheaper (that is the typical description of a repositioning cruise!) than a 7-day round trip cruise with a lot of port stops.

I have done a repositioning cruise from Vancouver on a Princess cruise ship, and of course it’s always fun to look for more! 😁 Here are the Princess repositioning cruises from Vancouver in fall 2024!

1. 30-day Vancouver to New Zealand cruise (one-way)

September 21, 2024 | Royal Princess

📍 Where does this cruise go? After leaving Vancouver, this cruise has 1 port in Canada, 1 port in Oregon, 3 ports in California, 2 ports in Hawaii, 2 ports in French Polynesia, 1 port in American Samoa, 1 port in New Zealand (before Auckland)… and then arrives in Auckland! ⚓ What cruise ports are on this itinerary? Vancouver Canada, Victoria Canada, Astoria Oregon, San Francisco California, San Diego California, Los Angeles California, Honolulu Hawaii, Maui Hawaii, Tahiti French Polynesia (overnight), Moorea French Polynesia, Pago Pago American Samoa, Tauranga New Zealand, Auckland New Zealand 🌊 How many sea days are on this cruise? There are 18 sea days! You will be crossing the international date line on one of those sea days! 📆 When does the cruise start and end? This cruise starts in Vancouver on September 21, and it arrives in Auckland on October 22. ⛰ What is the cruise before Vancouver? The last Alaska cruise for the Royal Princess can be booked as a 7-day one-way cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver that starts on September 14, or a 14-day round trip cruise from Vancouver that starts on September 7. ⚓ What is the next cruise after Auckland? After the cruise ship leaves Auckland, it heads to Sydney, stopping by the New Zealand cruise port of Picton first. 👪 How many passengers can be on this cruise ship? The Royal Princess has a passenger capacity of 3,560 at double occupancy.

🤓 Be informed : Here is the New Zealand bucket list to help you decide if you should stay a week or more in New Zealand before flying back! Or use Auckland as a jumping off point to go to more South Pacific islands like the Cook Islands ! Then, to go to the US, Hawaiian Airlines has a direct flight from the Cook Islands to Hawaii. 😁

Princess repositioning cruise to New Zealand in 2024:

• September 21 on the Royal Princess: 30 day cruise from Vancouver to Auckland

2. 36-day Vancouver to Australia cruise (one-way)

📍 Where does this cruise go? After leaving Vancouver, this cruise has 1 port in Canada, 1 port in Oregon, 3 ports in California, 2 ports in Hawaii, 2 ports in French Polynesia, 1 port in American Samoa, 3 ports in New Zealand… and then arrives in Sydney Australia! ⚓ What cruise ports are on this itinerary? Vancouver Canada, Victoria Canada, Astoria Oregon, San Francisco California, San Diego California, Los Angeles California, Honolulu Hawaii, Maui Hawaii, Tahiti French Polynesia (overnight), Moorea French Polynesia, Pago Pago American Samoa, Tauranga New Zealand, Auckland New Zealand, Picton New Zealand, Sydney Australia 🌊 How many sea days are on this cruise? There are 22 sea days! You will be crossing the international date line on one of those sea days! 📆 When does the cruise start and end? This cruise starts in Vancouver on September 21, and it arrives in Sydney on October 28. ⛰ What is the cruise before Vancouver? The last Alaska cruise for the Royal Princess can be booked as a 7-day one-way cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver that starts on September 14, or a 14-day round trip cruise from Vancouver that starts on September 7. ⚓ What is the next cruise after Sydney? On October 28, the Royal Princess starts a 13-day cruise to South Pacific islands, including 1 port in New Caledonia, 1 port in Vanuatu, and 3 ports in Fiji! 👪 How many passengers can be on this cruise ship? The Royal Princess has a passenger capacity of 3,560 at double occupancy.

🤓 Be informed : Here is the Australia bucket list to help you decide if you should stay a week or more in Australia before flying back! Generally speaking, May to October is the best time to visit the Great Barrier Reef .

Princess repositioning cruise from Vancouver to Australia in 2024:

• September 21 on the Royal Princess: 36 day cruise from Vancouver to Sydney Australia

3. 13-day Vancouver to Hawaii cruise (one-way)

📍 Where does this cruise go? After leaving Vancouver, this cruise has 1 port in Canada, 1 port in Oregon, 3 ports in California, and then arrives in Honolulu. ⚓ What cruise ports are on this itinerary? Vancouver Canada, Victoria Canada, Astoria Oregon, San Francisco California, San Diego California, Los Angeles California, Honolulu Hawaii 🌊 How many sea days are on this cruise? There are 7 sea days. 📆 When does the cruise start and end? This cruise starts in Vancouver on September 21, and it arrives in Honolulu on October 4. ⛰ What is the cruise before Vancouver? There is a 14-day round trip Alaska cruise from Vancouver that starts on September 7. ⚓ What is the next cruise after Honolulu? After the cruise ship leaves Honolulu, it heads to New Zealand and Australia, stopping by South Pacific islands in French Polynesia and American Samoa. 👪 How many passengers can be on this cruise ship? The Royal Princess has a passenger capacity of 3,560 at double occupancy.

🤓 Be informed #1 : Honolulu is on the island of Oahu, and it’s where you can go to Pearl Harbor National Memorial . To check some national parks off your bucket list, you’ll need to go to the island of Maui for Haleakala National Park and the Big Island for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .

🤓 Be informed #2 : It is possible to book a one-way cruise from Anchorage to Vancouver that is the cruise right before the repositioning cruise, but personally I would not feel comfortable booking that. That would mean you would be embarking in one US cruise port (in Alaska) and disembarking in a different US cruise port (in Hawaii), and the laws about embarking and disembarking in 2 different US cruise ports seems ambiguous. I read a story in a cruise facebook group about someone who had booked back-to-back cruises individually in a similar way (it was another cruise line), and just a few weeks before the cruise, they were contacted by the cruise line and told they can’t do that. Maybe there’s something about this specific itinerary that would actually make it okay (I have no idea), but the uncertainty of it makes me feel uneasy about booking it myself! Research before you book! If the cruise line is selling it as a cruise from one US cruise port to another (like a Panama Canal cruise from California to Florida ), then it’s not a problem, but when you would be booking 2 individual cruises, know before you book!

Princess repositioning cruise from Vancouver to Hawaii in 2024:

• September 21 on the Royal Princess: 13 day cruise from Vancouver to Honolulu

4. 20-day Panama Canal cruise from Vancouver (one-way cruise to Florida)

September 24, 2024 | Sapphire Princess

📍 Where does this cruise go? After leaving Vancouver, this cruise has 1 port in Canada, 1 port in California, 1 port in Mexico, 1 port in Guatemala, 1 port in Panama, Panama Canal Full Transit New Locks scenic cruising day, 1 port in Colombia, and then arrives in Fort Lauderdale Florida. ⚓ What cruise ports are on this itinerary? Vancouver Canada, Victoria Canada, San Francisco California, Puerto Vallarta Mexico, Puerto Quetzal Guatemala, Fuerte Amador (Panama City) Panama, Cartagena Colombia, Fort Lauderdale Florida. 🌊 How many sea days are on this cruise? There are 11 sea days, plus 1 scenic cruising day (Panama Canal). 📆 When does the cruise start and end? This cruise starts in Vancouver on September 24, and it arrives in Fort Lauderdale on October 14. ⛰ What is the cruise before Vancouver? The last Alaska cruise for the Sapphire Princess is a 10-day round trip cruise from Vancouver that starts on September 14. ⚓ What is the next cruise after Fort Lauderdale? The next cruise is a 10-day Caribbean cruise that goes to 6 islands that starts on October 14. The following cruise that starts on October 24 is another 10-day Caribbean cruise that goes to 6 islands, but goes to several islands that the first cruise doesn’t go to. 👪 How many passengers can be on this cruise ship? The Sapphire Princess has a passenger capacity of 2,670 at double occupancy.

🤓 Be informed #1 : There are the new locks and the old locks of the Panama Canal. This cruise goes through the new locks.

🤓 Be informed #2 : You can also start this Panama Canal cruise on the Sapphire Princess from San Francisco as a 16-day Panama Canal cruise from San Francisco to Fort Lauderdale .

Princess repositioning cruise from Vancouver to Florida in 2024:

• September 24 on Sapphire Princess: 20 day cruise from Vancouver to Fort Lauderdale FL

5. 7-day Vancouver to Los Angeles cruise (one-way)

September 21 | Royal Princess September 28 | Discovery Princess

Even a 7-day repositioning cruise you can turn into a long cruise by doing the last Alaska cruise of the season before you start the repositioning part of the cruise from Vancouver!

📍 Where does this cruise go? After leaving Vancouver, this cruise has 1 port in Canada, 1 port in Oregon, 2 ports in California (before LA), and then arrives in Los Angeles. ⚓ What cruise ports are on this itinerary? Vancouver Canada, Victoria Canada, Astoria Oregon, San Francisco California, San Diego California, Los Angeles California, Honolulu Hawaii 🌊 How many sea days are on this cruise? There are 2 sea days. 📆 When does the cruise start and end? The Royal Princess cruise starts in Vancouver on September 21, and it arrives in Los Angeles on September 28. The Discovery Princess cruise starts in Vancouver on September 28, and it arrives in Los Angeles on October 5. ⛰ What is the cruise before Vancouver? The Royal Princess does a 14-day round trip Alaska cruise from Vancouver that starts on September 7. ⚓ What is the next cruise after Los Angeles? The Royal Princess continues on to Hawaii, the South Pacific, New Zealand, and Australia. The Discovery Princess will be based in Los Angeles to do a 7-day round trip California coast cruise starting on October 5, and after that does a 7-day round trip Mexico cruise starting on October 12. 👪 How many passengers can be on this cruise ship? The Royal Princess has a passenger capacity of 3,560 at double occupancy. The Discovery Princess has a passenger capacity of 3,660.

🤓 Be informed #1 : This is basically a California coast cruise! It can be a perfect cruise if you want to get a taste for coastal California cities.

🤓 Be informed #2 : To check a national park off your bucket list after a cruise to Los Angeles, you’ll want to rent a car and go to Joshua Tree National Park (3 hours from LA) or Death Valley National Park (5 hours from LA). You can also take a ferry to Channel Islands National Park from a harbor that is 1.5 hours from LA.

🤓 Be informed #3 : To check a national park off your bucket list after a cruise to San Francisco, you’ll want to rent a car and go to Yosemite National Park that is 4 hours away from San Francisco. If you’re ambitious, do the Majestic Mountain Loop to go to Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, and Sequoia National Park in 3 days! Redwoods National Park is 5.5 hours from San Francisco up the California coast.

🤓 Be informed #4 : See “be informed #2” under the Vancouver to Hawaii cruise section if you are consider doing an Alaska cruise and want to make your final destination Los Angeles.

Princess repositioning cruises from Vancouver to California in 2024:

• September 21 on Royal Princess: 7 day cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles
• September 28 on Discovery Princess: 7 day cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles
• September 24 on Sapphire Princess: 4 day cruise from Vancouver to San Francisco
• September 25 on Grand Princess: 4 day cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles
• September 26 on Ruby Princess: 3 day cruise from Vancouver to San Francisco

More cruise searches for fun: Best Alaska cruises from San Francisco (back-to-back cruises that go to Alaska and Hawaii or Mexico!)

What Princess cruise ships are in Vancouver?

In 2024, the Princess cruise ships with Alaska cruises from Vancouver are the Discovery Princess, Grand Princess, Royal Princess, Ruby Princess, and Sapphire Princess.

The other Princess cruise ships in Alaska are the Crown Princess (from San Francisco) and Majestic Princess (from Seattle).

In 2025, the Princess cruise ships with Alaska cruises from Vancouver are the Caribbean Princess, Coral Princess, Grand Princess, and Sapphire Princess.

The other Princess cruise ships going to Alaska are the Discovery Princess (Seattle), Royal Princess (Seattle), and Ruby Princess (San Francisco).

HAPPY CRUISING FROM VANCOUVER!

👆 Top row: San Francisco, Hawaii, American Samoa. Bottom row: New Zealand, French Polynesia, Vancouver.

• Princess Cruises

Princess Shuttle location at Vancouver (YVR) airport

By MsSoCalCruiser , August 9, 2016 in Princess Cruises

Recommended Posts

MsSoCalCruiser

We have never been to Vancouver (YVR) airport before. We are flying Delta. Do you know the distance between the Delta gates and the Princess shuttles?

Also, this is our first time flying into another country. What do we have to do once we land? How much time is usually involved?

Thanks so much!

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

CruiserBruce

In virtually all cases, no matter the cruise line, or location, you meet the cruise line rep for ground transportation after you claim your bags.

In the case of an international flight, the cruise line rep can't meet you until after claiming your bags and dealing with passport and Customs checks, as that area is "sterile" and secure. So, you will exit the scure area to the "free" area and the Princess rep will be there.

Time and distance will depend on many variables. Could be as little as 15 minutes, but would expect 30, probably.

Once you deplane you will head from the gate to customs. After being processed at customs you can proceed to the baggage collection area (relatively close to customs). Once you have collected your bags you then proceed to the Arrivals area. Note that all international passengers proceed along the same route.

Once you enter the Arrivals Hall you will see the Princess rep. There are usually a number of reps from limo companies etc in the same general area. The entire process will take about half an hour.

Once you deplane you will head from the gate to customs. After being processed at customs you can proceed to the baggage collection area (relatively close to customs). Once you have collected your bags you then proceed to the Arrivals area. Note that all international passengers proceed along the same route.   Once you enter the Arrivals Hall you will see the Princess rep. There are usually a number of reps from limo companies etc in the same general area. The entire process will take about half an hour.

No passport check? That is not customs...separate process.

It is actually immigration (passport control) before you collect your suitcases. At immigration they check your custom declaration (and mark it as either no issue leave without questions or questions needed) and this you hand in when you leave arrivals. Then you'll meet the Princess rep. At YVR they usually have portable booths clearly showing the cruise line name.

As I read it the original question related to procedures in Vancouver.

The CBSA is often referred to as Customs and Immigration. Those of us who live here typically refer to it as Customs.

After deplaning one arrives at "Customs". If you are directed to a booth you will speak with an officer who will inspect your passport and review your Customs declaration. Alternatively you may bypass this process and be directed to a kiosk where entry is handled electronically.

Prior to actually entering the Arrivals Hall you will hand your Customs Declaration Form to an agent. Unless the form has been marked for further investigation you will simply pass through.

Never ceases to amaze me how people on CC can turn a simple question into an issue.

Seems like you now know you'll have passports checked and customs declaration handed in before you can get to the Princess minions.

But nobody mentioned the distance angle - it can be quite a schlep, depending which gate and how fast you walk around 5-10mins on foot from gate to baggage claim, but Delta usually seem to get E87, the closest gate, so more like 2-3 mins walk for most people. Terminal Maps are here; a guide for cruisers is here which confirms the above info (pass CBSA, collect bags, leave secure area and only then see cruise reps).

You may not know since it's your first time that you will actually go through US immigration & customs here in Vancouver before boarding your return flight and also at the pier before boarding the ship - this is why the maps linked above mention US CBP.

Personally I'd advise against a Princess (or any other cruiseline) transfer in Vancouver because there is basically zero extra convenience, it's slower, and hugely more expensive than other methods. At the point where you meet the reps you are already in the international arrivals lobby - so finding cabs, limos, and SkyTrain just involves walking to the other side of it then outside or up the stairs.

Cabs and limos are fixed price ($35+tip per car to the pier for the former, variable price for the latter depending on size but starting at about $70 for towncar incl tax & tip, going up to about double that for a 10pax stretch). If you check the price of the transfers, you'll probably find it's US$29pp.

Since all the local transportation uses Canadian $, that means even a solo traveler can take a cab by themselves for basically the same price . If you're a couple a towncar is comparable value, and five or more will pay less to travel in your own stretch limo !!!

SkyTrain is even cheaper at $9pp - $7.75 evenings and weekends - and avoids any traffic delays, but does mean a couple of blocks extra walking to the platform and three blocks on the downtown end. All of these methods should get you on your way faster than waiting for a bus to fill up before leaving as well...

Some ports are far away, have poor transport options, a language barrier, or something that makes cruise transfers the sensible option - but here they are basically a waste of time and money.

Thank you all. I feel better after reading your replies. We are using EZ Air, flying Delta, and we have purchased princess transfers.

We are doing something that I hope we don't regret, flying in the day of our cruise. I hope there are no computer issues.

This really helps a lot. Thanks again :)

We were there 8/3/16 and had planned on using the sky train, but when we picked up our bags, the Princess rep was there with a bus ready to leave, so we bought the transfer. You hand your bags over there and they were at our cabin when we got there. It couldn't have been easier.

how much was the Princess transfer, we were going to take the skytrain but if the timing and price is right your way sounds easier.

vickie_bernie

I wrote this blog all about cruisers arriving in Vancouver and the what to expect. You answers and more are in the blog

http://vickieandbernietravel.blogspot.ca/2016/06/vancouver-airport-tips-for-travellers.html

I wrote this blog all about cruisers arriving in Vancouver and the what to expect. You answers and more are in the blog   http://vickieandbernietravel.blogspot.ca/2016/06/vancouver-airport-tips-for-travellers.html

Thank you so much! :)

Read your blog. Very helpful. Thanks.

You'll pay more for the transfer, but it was well worth it to us.

DrivesLikeMario

This is one airport I would NOT use Princess transfers, especially if you have an afternoon-arriving plane.

After spending about an hour and a half standing and waiting through passport control, we got our bags, found our rep. in the baggage claim area and then waited with her inside. Then we waited with her outside. Then we waited and waited some more.

Then we boarded the bus and waited and waited some more. We were waiting for 3-4 other couples, the last of which were on a flight arriving 2.5 hrs. after us!! We were the last of Princess' passengers for the day, so they held us until they had the last remaining ones.

It doesn't happen like this all the time, but could happen to you. In some airports, it pays to take the Princess transfer because there are little to no other options but not in YVR.

In subsequent visits to YVR, I learned to grab a taxi. It makes for a much speedier trip to the ship. ;)

Colo Cruiser

This is one airport I would NOT use Princess transfers, especially if you have an afternoon-arriving plane.   After spending about an hour and a half standing and waiting through passport control, we got our bags, found our rep. in the baggage claim area and then waited with her inside. Then we waited with her outside. Then we waited and waited some more.   Then we boarded the bus and waited and waited some more. We were waiting for 3-4 other couples, the last of which were on a flight arriving 2.5 hrs. after us!! We were the last of Princess' passengers for the day, so they held us until they had the last remaining ones.   It doesn't happen like this all the time, but could happen to you. In some airports, it pays to take the Princess transfer because there are little to no other options but not in YVR.   In subsequent visits to YVR, I learned to grab a taxi. It makes for a much speedier trip to the ship. ;)

I agree!! Grab a taxi. :eek:

Thanks for all the info! We are cruising out of Vancouver in September with Holland America (sorry to post in the Princess area of the forum, but this is where google led me and there is a TON of info on this thread about flying into YVR--thank you, again!).

The ship sails at 4:00pm and our flight from Utah to YVR is scheduled to arrive at 12:22pm. Are we cutting it too close? I have no idea how much time to allow for both customs, getting our bags, and then getting to the ship. Any advice is welcome.

We are open to moving our flights to the day before and getting a hotel, but need to decide soon. Would you all advise us to do that?

Thanks for all the info! We are cruising out of Vancouver in September with Holland America (sorry to post in the Princess area of the forum, but this is where google led me and there is a TON of info on this thread about flying into YVR--thank you, again!).   The ship sails at 4:00pm and our flight from Utah to YVR is scheduled to arrive at 12:22pm. Are we cutting it too close? I have no idea how much time to allow for both customs, getting our bags, and then getting to the ship. Any advice is welcome.   We are open to moving our flights to the day before and getting a hotel, but need to decide soon. Would you all advise us to do that?

When possible, it is better to arrive in the morning, or even a day before, in case flight delays occurs.

Best you find and join your roll call for your cruise for appropriate advice: http://www.cruisecritic.com/rollcalls/?cruise_line_id=21

When possible, it is better to arrive in the morning, or even a day before, in case flight delays occurs. Best you find and join your roll call for your cruise for appropriate advice: http://www.cruisecritic.com/rollcalls/?cruise_line_id=21

Thanks for the advice. I think we'll go ahead and change our flights to the day before. Just for peace of mind. :)

Very good idea. Less than three hours from plane touchdown to ship departure is very, very tight!

Even if nothing goes wrong but the airport is busy it's very possible you might fail to meet the 'must be at pier 90mins pre-departure' threshold - it can easily take an hour to get through immigration, customs, bag collection and then it's at least 30mins to the port.

If you don't get on here you don't get on period on many HAL cruises. No other Canadian ports, so it's illegal to fly you on to meet the ship for all the one-ways - only RT Vancouver routes allow you to meet the ship in a US port legally...

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• ANNOUNCEMENT: Set Sail Beyond the Ordinary with Oceania Cruises
• ANNOUNCEMENT: The Widest View in the Whole Wide World
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS · Started 7 hours ago

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:20 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 07:36 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 12:53 AM

LauraS · Started Tuesday at 07:17 PM

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...

The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.