ncl kona excursions

• Cruising Hawaii

The best Hawaiian island excursions on NCL Pride of America and other Hawaii cruises

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Maui day one suggestions, maui day two suggestions, best tours and excursions to take from hawaii (big) island – hilo side , best tours and excursions to take from hawaii (big) island – kona side , kauai day one suggestions, kauai day two suggestions, best tours and excursions from honolulu, oahu , what to bring with you on your hawaii tours and excursions.

Cruises are a great way to see many Hawaiian islands in a short period of time. With so many options and such little time in each port, it’s a daunting process to choose what you will see and do.

When each Hawaiian island offers so much to see and do for a week-long land vacation , how do you best spend your limited hours at each port? The options can be overwhelming! We’ve gone on many land vacations in Hawaii and we’ve taken the NCL Pride of America cruise of Hawaii , so we know Hawaii very, very well. As such, we’d like to share some thoughts and suggestions on the top tours to do in each port.

With our suggestions, we’ve aimed our focus on the places considered to be must-see . Along with outstanding scenery, we’ve also included some recommendations for learning about the culture.

As the Pride of America cruise of Hawaii is quite popular, we’ll roughly follow their itinerary as we look at each port. Note that this cruise is the only one that continuously cruises within the Hawaiian islands. Every Saturday afternoon, it sets sail from Honolulu. Within a week, the Pride of America goes to Maui, Hawaii (Big) Island, Kauai, and then returns to Honolulu for disembarkation on Saturday morning. See the following image for that itinerary.

If you are not taking the Pride of America’s cruise of Hawaii and are visiting from another ship, please verify that our suggested tours and activities align with the time constraints of your cruise ship’s itinerary.

One more point regarding time and tours, don’t try to be overly ambitious with the tours you choose that are outside of what the cruise ship offers. If your tour runs late, you might risk missing the ship, and getting back to the ship will be at your own expense. A good way to eliminate this risk is to build in a time buffer and/or book your excursions through the cruise company.

Best tours and excursions to take from Kahului, Maui

The road to Hana is one of Maui’s top attractions. This rainforest drive offers lush, tropical scenery, a black beach, waterfalls and beautiful coastal views. (One caution – if you are prone to carsickness, prepare with your preventative measures or skip this tour.)  Though we’ve taken the road to Hana many times before, when we cruised Hawaii on the Pride of America , we chose a guided tour.

Most excursions offered through the cruise ships only go to Hana and turn around, but there’s much to see beyond Hana. We opted for a tour with Valley Isle Excursions , which took us well beyond Hana in a long loop back to Kahului.

The reason we chose the road to Hana for day one of our two-day stop at Maui is that this tour takes all day. If, for some reason, your tour gets delayed, you won’t miss the boat if you have an overnight stay in port. Note that if your cruise only has one day for Maui, you might have to opt for the tours that go to Hana and back due to time constraints.

If you prefer to DIY, it is possible to rent a car and drive the road to Hana. You’ll want to do a lot of research first to make sure you use your time wisely. See our advice for the road to Hana . Note that we have a mini-guide to the road to Hana that allows you to see some awesome sights but doesn’t go to Hana and doesn’t take the entire day.

Alternatives for Day One on Maui

If the road to Hana doesn’t appeal to you, consider other tour options provided by the ship or rent a car and sightsee on your own. Look for an organized or DIY tour that might include the following options:

• Historic Lahaina is a neat town to walk around, check out the shops, see their large banyan tree, and have lunch.
• If it’s humpback whale season in Hawaii , which runs roughly from December-ish to April-ish, consider going on a whale-watching tour. Maui is one of the best islands for humpback whale watching.
• The Iao Valley is a fascinating place to see, so if you can, squeeze that in on either day one or two. It only takes about an average of 30 minutes to see this valley, so it can be combined with other sightseeing.
• Maui and Hawaii (Big) Island are our favorite islands for snorkeling. The crescent-shaped crater of Molokini is a top spot for snorkeling in Hawaii. Look for a tour that includes “turtle town” which may give you an opportunity to see honu (Hawaiian sea turtles.)
• We really like the  luau options on Maui , so if your ship has an overnight stay on Maui, the evening of day one would be a very good evening to enjoy a luau. 

Seeing sunrise from 10,000 feet above sea level on a dormant volcano is quite a unique experience. Haleakala sunrise is one of the top activities for Maui. If your ship stays overnight on Maui, day two would be your only option for seeing sunrise from Haleakala.

If you toured the road to Hana on day one, check out the other suggestions we listed above under “Alternatives for Day One on Maui”

One of the most fascinating attractions in all of Hawaii is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . It’s a park that is worthy of exploring for more than just a day, but as you’ll likely only have a day here, you’ll get to see some of the park’s highlights. Don’t miss it, especially if you have the opportunity to see volcanic activity.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is about a 50-minute drive from Hilo. So, you’ll need a tour or rent a car. The ship will offer tours, but if you want to consider an independent operation, we had a great tour with Keikana Tours’ Hoppa On Hoppa Off .

From the Kona side, our number one pick would be seeing Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park . It’s often referred to as the Place of Refuge. This park offers an opportunity to learn about ancient Hawaiian culture with a stunning oceanside backdrop. At the moment, we’re not seeing a tour to this park being offered by NCL, so you’d have to rent a car or get a private tour guide to get here. It’s about a 40-minute drive from where the tenders drop off passengers. If you opt to see this place of refuge, you will also be able to make time to tour a coffee farm for which Kona is famous. We’ve enjoyed visits to Greenwell Farms . If you still have time available, visit Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park

Alternative ideas for Hawaii (Big) Island, Kona :

• If you did not snorkel on Maui or would like to do so again, Kealakekua Bay is a great place to snorkel. You’ll need a tour to get there.
• The Kohala waterfalls tour is an excellent waterfall tour. Plus, the drive to and from north Kohala offers you the chance to see more of the island.  I’m not certain, but I believe the Kohala waterfall tour offered by the cruise companies is this same one .
• Walk around Kona to check out the historic sites, shops and restaurants.

Best tours and excursions from Nawiliwili/Lihue, Kauai

Choosing what to do on Kauai seems to be a bigger challenge than the other islands. There’s so much to see and do! Here are our thoughts for day one:

– Our number one suggestion would be to rent a car. This would give you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Years ago, we wrote this article — I only have one day on Kauai. What should I see? It’s still good advice as you’d get to see the Kalalau Valley Lookout , Waimea Canyon , Spouting Horn and two of Kauai’s most iconic waterfalls — Opaeka’a and Wailua Falls . Those are all must-see places in Kauai, in our opinion. If you are on the NCL Pride of America cruise, you should have plenty of time to see all of this on the first day of your stop at Kauai, which includes an overnight stay.

If you don’t want to rent a car, look for a guided tour that includes some of the sites just mentioned.

Alternative ideas for Kauai day one :

– Kauai is a spectacular island for a helicopter tour. See this link to review Kauai helicopter tour companies and read reviews .

– A Kauai movie sites tour takes you to some beautiful spots where movies have been filmed in Kauai.

– For some fun, we love the Mountain Tubing Adventure . See our review . (If you do this on day two, get the first morning tour in order to allow enough time to get back to the ship before departure.)

– Another one of our favorite tours is the Kauai Secret/Sacred Falls Kayak and Waterfall Hike .

Other notes about Day One on Kauai

If you are on the Pride of America , this is the port where the ship has arranged the option to go on a luau. They advertise it a lot. We have not been on to this luau, so we cannot speak from experience, but the feedback we heard from a handful of other passengers is that they were slightly disappointed. Our favorite luaus are on Maui and Oahu. See Maui luau options and Oahu luau options .

If you are on the Pride of America , this is a short day as you are only in port until 2pm. So taking tours could be tricky on this day. Here are some thoughts:

– Kalapaki Beach is a nice beach and just a short (approximately 0.5 miles) walk or shuttle ride from the cruise terminal.

– Consider a helicopter tour, as we mentioned above. Kauai is our favorite island for a helicopter tour. Most tours only take an hour and the airport is only about five minutes away from the cruise terminal.

– As we mentioned above, for some fun, we love the Mountain Tubing Adventure . See our review . You would need to get their first tour at 9am to make this feasible for day two of your stop in Kauai. Double-check the timing as that can be subject to change.

If you are on the Pride of America, the ship will make its way around Kauai to cruise by Kauai’s stunning Na Pali Coast. You will have some time, probably a couple of hours, from when you leave the dock to when you can see the Na Pali Coast. Check with guest relations for their estimated timing for that day. You will definitely want to take in those views.

We hope you’ve allowed at least an extra day or two to explore Oahu either on the front end or the back end of the cruise. Here is our Oahu vacation itinerary that you can adjust to your available days.

The cruise companies have excursions to see Pearl Harbor and some Honolulu sites with an airport drop-off. That is worth doing if you can fit it in and if you didn’t allow extra days on Oahu.

Here’s a list of general items you’ll need or want for your excursions.

• Your identification and key card
• Tour vouchers
• Fully charged smart phone and/or camera
• A light jacket, preferably waterproof, in case of a rain shower. Additionally, some of the places like Waimea Canyon, Haleakala summit and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are in elevated, cooler climates.
• Water to stay hydrated
• A hat or visor
• Comfortable walking shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty as you might be walking on some dusty or muddy trails.
• Some tours may necessitate beach towels.

Sheila Beal

Sheila Beal is the founder and editor of Go Visit Hawaii. You can connect with Sheila Beal on Twitter , Go Visit Hawaii on Facebook , or Instagram .

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NCL Kona Mocha tour - Polynesian Adventure Tours

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NCL Kona Mocha tour

NCL Kona Mocha tour was terrific. It by far exceeded my expectations. The view at the Kona factory was breath taking. The Kona coffee tour was very educational and the samples were delicious. Next we proceeded to Kokoleka Lani farms. All of the people were so friendly. They made me want to move to Kina and become their friends. I loved learning about the owners of the farm and how the cacao farm came to be. Also great learning about the soap making and history of how this fairly recent farm came to be. Highly recommend if you are a coffee and chocolate fan.

We spent three days with Reuben I’m visiting iconic places, like Pearl Harbor, Kahlúa Ranch, Diamondhead, and many other sites. He was an excellent tour guide, very knowledgeable, and had a great sense of humor. He taught us a lot of Hawaiian words, and made everything fun and enjoyable. He went beyond the call of duty to make sure that we got to see the USS Arizona Memorial. He was also a very skilled driver on all these curvy roads!! We highly recommend Polynesian Adventure Tours and do yourself a favor, ask for Reuben!

Very good! Everything went well. We went to several extra places and the drivers is so nice. I would recommend this trip.

I was with PCL for this excursion and it was amazing! Loved the views! Our tour guide Albert was amazing! Very chill and knowledgeable of local info and culture. Very funny too.

Albert was great! He was very knowledgeable and very helpful! He gave us the history and fun facts that locals know! Would do this again with him!

We saw many beautiful areas in Hilo. The volcano, waterfalls, and beach were highlights. And the stop at the bakery was special. Our tour guide, Dexter, was very knowledgeable and friendly.

Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

A Hawaii cruise offers a convenient way to island-hop as you experience Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii from both sea and land — but what exactly should you do while ashore? Choosing a cruise shore excursion in Hawaii can be tough since the 50th State offers a wide range of activities, including snorkeling and whale watching, visits to historic landmarks and sacred Hawaiian sites, and scenic excursions to breathtaking canyons and volcanoes. Foodies, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and thrill-seekers can easily get their fix, too.

With an average of eight to 10 hours on each island — although some cruises do stay overnight in select ports — it's possible to enjoy experiences that not only explore Hawaii's best-known natural, cultural and historic sites but also satisfy your own personal interests.

While shore excursion offerings, itineraries and prices vary by cruise line, here are our overall picks for the best Hawaii cruise shore excursions and what you can expect to pay.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Prices may vary among third-party sellers, and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to help you get an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $ = under $70.
• $$ = $70-$140.
• $$$ = $140-$200.
• $$$$ = over $200.

Honolulu, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Price: $$-$$$

Pearl Harbor, one of Oahu's best-known sights, can be tricky to visit on your own because the historic World War II memorials commemorating the Dec. 7, 1941 bombing by the Japanese are located on an active military base with stringent security protocols. (No bags of any size are allowed and phones and wallets must be carried in a clear plastic bag or in a pocket.) A guided tour will get you into Pearl Harbor in a hassle-free manner and make it easy to visit the multiple sites — the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship, USS Bowfin submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — with the required reservations already arranged.

Some cruise lines offer multiple Pearl Harbor excursions with variations in the sites visited, so be sure to read tour descriptions carefully. If your cruise begins or ends in Honolulu, Pearl Harbor visits are often offered on embarkation or disembarkation day packaged with a hotel or airport transfer. Other Pearl Harbor shore excursions include a Honolulu city tour that visits Diamond Head Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Important to know: Most Pearl Harbor shore excursions last five to seven hours and are appropriate for all ages. There is quite a bit of walking involved and some stair climbing is required to visit the USS Missouri, where the formal surrender ceremony by the Japanese took place on Sept. 2, 1945, ending WWII. The somber USS Arizona Memorial, where 1,177 sailors and civilians died (many of them entombed in the sunken wreck) is reached by a short boat ride.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Diamond Head Crater hike

Diamond Head Crater, the photogenic volcanic landmark seen in many images of Waikiki Beach, isn't just amazing to look at — it's also incredible to climb. Active cruisers can take on the challenge during a guided Diamond Head adventure hike to its 763-foot summit. The payoff? Stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

This excursion requires you to ascend a series of moderate but sometimes uneven switchback trails followed by a walk through a narrow 200-foot tunnel. You'll then climb up two sets of steep stairs (76 steps and 99 steps, respectively). Those who choose the more difficult route to the summit will need to climb the 99 steps and an interior spiral staircase to reach the historic lookout bunkers. If you choose the easier route to the summit up the scenic Loop Trail, you'll then descend into the bunker and down the spiral staircase and 99 steps. You can also retrace your steps and descend on the Loop Trail.

Important to know: Book an early morning tour if it's offered, since temperatures escalate quickly by midmorning; wear sneakers and a hat and bring sunscreen and water. The hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip and takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on the group and the number of people on the trail; total tour time is three to three and a half hours.

Oahu's North Shore tour

If you've visited Honolulu before or simply prefer scenic locales to cities, a good option is a tour that whisks you away from the bustle of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki and through the Ko'oalu Mountains to the immersive beauty of Oahu's North Shore. This lush and dramatic coastline is known for the big waves that pound its beaches from October to March and for its waterfalls, sugarcane fields and historic fish ponds. The region is visually stunning and its small towns offer a chance to sample Hawaiian cuisine, especially garlic shrimp, and shop for locally grown products such as macadamia nuts and pineapples.

Highlights include big-wave surfers riding the famed Banzai Pipeline (during winter months); the Byodo Temple, a Buddhist shrine built amid towering green peaks in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii; the waterfalls of Waimea Valley; and historic Haleiwa Town.

Important to know: North Shore excursions are typically five to seven hours in length with at least half the time spent on the tour bus. On sailings that end in Honolulu, some cruise lines offer panoramic North Shore tours combined with an airport drop-off (available for those with flights departing after 5:00 p.m.).

Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Monarchs tour

If Hawaii's royal history intrigues you, some cruise lines offer excursions that visit Iolani Palace, the final residence of the islands' kings and queens, and other sites of royal significance. Constructed in 1882, Iolani is the only royal palace in the United States; it was home to King Kalakaua, who built it, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned there after the U.S. annexed Hawaii. A circa-1883 statue of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810, and Kawaiahao Church, completed in 1842, are also nearby in downtown Honolulu.

Other royal sites that might be visited on a more extensive tour include the Pali Lookout, where Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu in 1795, and Mauna Ala, the royal mausoleum where six of the last eight Hawaiian monarchs are entombed.

Important to know: Most Iolani Palace and royal-focused shore excursions last about four hours and combine a bus tour with a self-guided audio tour of the palace.

Related: 10 cruise ship excursions to avoid

Kahului, Maui

Haleakala Crater

Price: $$$-$$$$

Experiencing Haleakala Crater is on many Maui visitors' must-do lists and there are several ways to visit the slumbering 10,023-foot-tall volcanic peak that dominates the island's landscape. (Don't worry – it last erupted in 1790.) A few shore excursion options require that your cruise ship overnights in Kahului, the main port, or Lahaina, or has a late sail-away time.

Haleakala means "House of the Sun" and perhaps the most surreal experiences are tours at sunrise or sunset (available on sailings that overnight in Maui). To experience sunrise high above the clouds you'll need to depart the ship before 3:00 a.m. and wind your way up Haleakala's curving roadway in total darkness before watching the sun brighten the horizon and illuminate the vast 3,000-feet-deep crater with its dramatic orange-hued cinder cones. In contrast, a sunset tour lets you survey the crater and then watch as the sun disappears below the clouds and the night sky fills with twinkling stars. If you just want to experience Haleakala's scenic slopes and crater in daylight, panoramic sightseeing tours are also available.

If you're more adventurous, there are also Haleakala downhill biking tours, which transport you by minibus to an elevation of 6,500 feet and let you ride 14 miles down the switchback road on Haleakala's slopes amid the farms of Upcountry. Most bike tours do not offer access to the summit and crater.

Important to know: Haleakala tours typically last four to seven hours. Because of Haleakala's high altitude and volcanic nature, they aren't recommended for anyone with respiratory or heart problems. Temperatures are much cooler (45 to 65 degrees) at the summit, so bring a sweater or jacket.

Road to Hana

Driving Maui's legendary Road to Hana, a narrow, twisting, 52-mile route with more than 600 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges, takes considerable concentration — but a Road to Hana tour on a professionally driven minibus frees everyone in your travel group to relax and enjoy the epic scenery along the way. Most cruise lines offer full-day excursions to Hana, a low-key hamlet located on the island's east coast amid jagged volcanic rocks and black-sand beaches.

Besides the thrill of this one-of-a-kind drive, which takes two to three hours to navigate, a Road to Hana excursion offers a chance to experience Maui's splendid bays and lush landscape of lava pinnacles, tropical fruit trees, giant ferns and rushing waterfalls. Highlights include the black-sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pua'a Ka'a State Park and the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe'o Gulch with its multiple cascades and soothing natural pools.

Important to know: Road to Hana excursions typically take nine to 10 hours, include lunch and aren't recommended for anyone prone to motion sickness. Sites visited vary by cruise line and some tours allow time for swimming.

Molokini Crater snorkel

Maui is home to one of the premier snorkel spots in Hawaii: Molokini, a mostly submerged crescent-shaped volcanic islet located about 2.5 miles off Maui's southern coast. This protected marine conservation site is reached via a scenic catamaran sail, during which guides will outfit you with snorkel gear and provide instructions for exploring these crystal-clear reef waters teeming with colorful sea life. Some excursions also visit Turtle Arches, lava formations known for frequent sea turtle sightings, and during humpback season (December to April), it's also possible to spot whales in the area.

Important to know: Molokini Crater snorkel tours are generally four hours long and all equipment, as well as breakfast, lunch or snacks and beverages, are provided. Water conditions can vary, so if seasickness is a problem, take that into consideration before booking.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Whale watching

If you're cruising Hawaii between December and April and you're fascinated by whales, Maui offers a terrific opportunity to see pods of humpbacks in their winter playground. More than 10,000 of these charismatic giants migrate here annually to mate and give birth. Their activities — tail slaps, breaches and calves swimming alongside their mothers — are all on display as you venture out in a whale-watching boat, or perhaps a more adventurous Zodiac. Most tours are led by naturalist guides, and in some cases a portion of the cost is earmarked for conservation through the Pacific Whale Foundation.

Important to know: Expect to spend about three hours at sea as guides search for whales; sightings, while likely, aren't always guaranteed. Water conditions can also vary and seasickness is a possibility.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Waimea Canyon tour

Price: $-$$

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile-long gorge known for the dramatic red and green hues of craggy cliffs that extend up to 3,000 feet below its rim. Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, which now requires reservations for individual visits, this scenic treasure can be viewed from lookout points.

A shore excursion that allows for about 30 minutes of viewing and picture taking is certainly the easiest way to see the canyon from a cruise ship. These tours include lots of scenic touring during the 90-minute drive each way between the cruise terminal and the canyon; many stop at the Spouting Horn blowhole or small towns in Kauai's Koloa district.

But there are caveats, namely that rainy conditions on Kauai, which is Hawaii's wettest island, can fog in the gorge and make for a disappointing outing. Kauai's driest months are April to September.

Important to know: Most Waimea Canyon excursions take four to five hours; some longer Best of Kauai excursions combine a visit to the canyon with a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Hollywood in Hawaii tour

Fans of "Jurassic Park" probably know that much of the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie was filmed on Kauai — but a number of other big-screen and TV classics were, too. Movie-set tours are popular excursions, especially for film buffs. These tours take place on minibuses or motor coaches outfitted with TV screens, so you can watch snippets of Hollywood movies where they were filmed and, in some places, get out and snap photos yourself.

Besides "Jurassic Park," other movies and TV shows filmed on the island include "Tropic Thunder," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Six Days and Seven Nights," "Blue Hawaii," "South Pacific," "Donovan's Reef," "Gilligan's Island," "Fantasy Island" and "The Amazing Race."

Important to know: Most movie-set excursions take about five to six hours and primarily involve scenic touring — so even if you haven't seen the movies, it's an entertaining and comfortable way to sightsee Kauai.

Wailua River cruise and Fern Grotto

Price: $$ - $$$

Kauai is home to Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua River, which offers access to one of its lushest hidden spots: the Fern Grotto. This excursion combines a relaxing cruise with insights into Hawaiian culture and entertainment in the form of Hawaiian song and dance. The tourist boats that navigate this peaceful river through Wailua River State Park are run by a local family with members providing commentary.

Access to the Fern Grotto, a natural lava-rock cave covered with lush tropical vines, requires a 10-minute walk along a mostly flat, paved and shaded path. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, photo ops and additional entertainment await. Wailua River cruise tours also generally stop for picture-taking at Opaeka'a Falls, a 151-foot cascade that plunges into a secluded pool.

Important to know: Most Wailua River and Fern Grotto excursions are three to four hours long. Tours that combine those sights with a tour of Waimea Canyon last about seven hours and include lunch.

 Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions, is accessible from both cruise ports on the island of Hawaii, it's a quicker trip (about 30 to 35 minutes' drive each way) from Hilo. Most cruise lines offer excursions, but almost all of them are just a basic introduction that only touches on what this 505-square-mile national park has to offer.

The main activity involves visiting several viewpoints and steam vents on the rim of Kilauea Crater with a guide who offers commentary on this active volcano's history, geology and current status. It's unlikely you'll see molten lava, and most tours do not drive out along the famous Chain of Craters Road. Some tours, however, do include a walk through the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Other longer and more costly excursions of up to seven hours combine a visit to the national park with a helicopter flight-seeing tour and/or stops at various waterfalls or gardens near Hilo.

Important to know: Standard Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours are about four hours long, and many also make a stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center for tastings and shopping. The walk to the rim of the Kilauea crater is mostly on gravel or dirt pathways, but some areas overlooking the crater have potential trip hazards. Also, because the crater emits volcanic gases, these tours aren't advised for people with respiratory issues.

Hilo waterfalls and gardens

Hilo's location on the island of Hawaii's lush leeward side makes it a mecca for cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. Cruise ship excursions that visit several falls or combine a visit to a single waterfall with a stop at a botanical garden, tropical zoo or orchid farm are popular.

The two major falls near Hilo are the 100-foot Rainbow Falls, which earned its name from the prismatic effect that takes place on sunny mornings, and the powerful Akaka Falls, which is reached via a walk through a tropical forest and tumbles a breathtaking 442 feet. Other tour stops could include Hilo's Liliuokalani Gardens (the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan), the Nani Mau Gardens or the Pana'ewa Rainforest Gardens and Zoo.

Important to know: Waterfalls and gardens shore excursions vary in length from four to seven hours, and participants should expect to be on their feet for a good portion of the tour. Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking lot. To see Akaka Falls, you must navigate quite a few steps and walk a half-mile circular path.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Volcano Winery

The island of Hawaii is home to Volcano Winery, the southernmost winery in the U.S. If sipping vino is a favorite pastime — and you have a curious palate — an excursion here could be a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Volcano Winery, which is family-owned and located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, specializes in tropical blends by mixing distinctive local fruits such as yellow guava and even tea and honey with grape varietals that include Pinot Noir and Cayuga to produce uniquely flavored wines. It also produces some 100% grape wines.

Important to know: Excursions to Volcano Winery are generally three hours long and include a tour of the winery and a tasting.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona Coast snorkel

For passengers who didn't get a chance to snorkel in Maui, the waters just off Kona's rugged lava coast offer another excellent opportunity to spy on Mother Nature's underwater handiwork. Most cruise lines offer a snorkel excursion by catamaran that will allow even novices to don a mask and fins and behold the intricate coral and dazzling reef fish that call the area's tranquil bays and coves home. Dolphin spotting is also possible.

A more adventurous option is a snorkel tour by Zodiac, which combines the thrill of zipping around in a 24-foot motorized raft with enjoying up-close views of coastal caves and lava tubes — and some snorkel time, of course.

Important to know: Most catamaran snorkel excursions are appropriate for all ages, last about four hours and include either breakfast or lunch; all equipment, including flotation aids, is provided and some catamarans are equipped with a diving board and waterslide for added fun. Zodiac excursions are more physically demanding and are not recommended if you have back or neck problems; you also need to be able to climb back into the raft via a small four-rung ladder.

Atlantis Submarine

Price: $$-$$$$

If you've never been in a submarine, Kona offers a chance to see the area's abundant sea life as you venture 100 feet below the surface of the Kona coast's crystal-clear waters. The Atlantis Submarine (also operating on Maui and Oahu) is U.S. Coast Guard-certified, fully air-conditioned and offers individual viewing portholes.

Important to know: Atlantis Submarine excursions last about one and a half hours and are not recommended for anyone prone to claustrophobia or motion sickness; you must be at least 3 feet tall and able to climb a vertical 12-step ladder into and out of the submarine. Excursion costs vary widely from cruise line to cruise line.

Kona coffee tour

Kona is famous for the coffee that grows in its rich volcanic soil, so if you want to taste a cup of Joe right at the source, this port is the place to do it. Cruise lines offer a variety of coffee-themed excursions; some are geared to education about the farming and production process while others focus more on sampling the goods and buying souvenirs to take home.

Some foodie-focused tours combine coffee sipping with locally grown chocolate tastings and visits to Kona-based breweries, while other full-day excursions pair a visit to a coffee farm with a cloud forest tour or a tour of Kona's top historic sights and a snorkel in Kealakekua Bay.

Important info: Kona coffee excursions are mostly three to four hours long. However, costs vary widely depending on the type of excursion, from a simple tasting room visit to a farm-based roasting experience.

Place of Refuge and Painted Church

History buffs will find plenty to love on this guided bus excursion, which visits cultural and religious sites along the Kona Coast. Three key locations are on the itinerary, the first being Kealakekua Bay, where legendary Captain Cook met his demise at the hands of local Hawaiians in 1778 and is memorialized in a monument.

Nearby is the second stop: St. Benedict's Painted Church. While the outside of this small Catholic church built in 1899 looks traditional, the inside dazzles with the artwork of Father John Velghe, a Belgian priest who drew the murals in an effort to teach local Hawaiians how to read.

The third is Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which means "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." Built in 1650 and carefully restored, this cultural site is an ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were once stored. It later became a place of refuge for defeated warriors.

Important to know: Place of Refuge and Painted Church excursions are typically three to four hours long and involve a minimal amount of walking.

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
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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Excursions & Tours

Historic Kona

Kona Coffee, Green Sea Turtles & Historical Park

Dolphin Reef & Captain Cook Snorkel Adventure

Kailua - Kona Overview by Segway

Kona tours to hawaii’s big island.

Resting on the majestic western portion of Hawaii's big island is the town of Kona, home to a few volcanic mountains. With its lovely weather year-round, this is easily a top contender in destinations to visit worldwide. Unleash some of Kona's history on a cruise excursion, rooted in St. Benedict's painted church, and discover the rich fishing tradition on this part of the island. Hike the rainforest and walk among the natural beauty of lush green landscapes and majestic waterfalls. Book a Big Island excursion today!

Kona, Hawaii, HI

The sun shines year-round on the Kona coast of the Big Island. Take a helicopter ride for views of the jagged Kohala Mountains, ride in a semi-submersible over spectacular coral reefs, or join a snorkeling excursion to Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine life refuge. Don't forget to sample a cup of delicious Kona coffee, the local brew of choice. This part of the Big Island also is famous for its macadamia nut orchards.

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• Cruise Ports
• Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal Cruise Ports

Kailua-Kona (Hawaii Island)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Hawaii - Mexico - Panama Canal

Local Time 2024-05-16 11:41

Port Kailua-Kona cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Kailua-Kona, Hawaii Island. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Kailua-Kona is a port town on Hawaii Island (Hawaii USA, North Kona District) with population around 12,000. It is West Hawaii's center of commerce and tourism industries. Kailua is served by Kona Airport (to the north) with regularly scheduled domestic and international flights linking to California (Oakland, Sacramento , San Diego , San Francisco , Los Angeles , San Jose), Oregon ( Portland ), Washington ( Seattle ), Hawaii ( Honolulu , Kahului , Lihue , Kapalua), Canada ( Vancouver BC ), Japan ( Tokyo ). Seasonal flights connect to Anchorage (Alaska), Bellingham WA, Dallas TX.

To the north is located Kawaihae . Kailua-Kona is the start and finish of the annual triathlon Ironman World Championship, Kona Coffee Festival, and Hawaiian International Billfish Tournament. Famous Kona coffee is a variety of Coffea arabica cultivated on Hualalai and Mauna Loa's slopes in North and South Kona Districts. Kailua Pier is a starting and finishing point for Ironman World Championship Triathlon held in October. North of Kailua pier is Kamakahonu royal residence and Ahuena Heiau. Parks include Laʻaloa Bay ("White Sands Beach" or "Magic Sands") and Kahaluʻu Bay, featuring some of Hawaii's best snorkeling.

Honomalino Bay (on the Big Island's / Hawaii Island's southwestern coast) is located south of Milolii (fishing village). The bay has a half-mile-long black-sand beach and is accessible only by boat (ship) or by foot (from the village). The beach (aka "salt-and-pepper beach") is lined up with high palm trees. A short hike to Honomalino Bay passes through a rainforest, also crossing lava flows from Mauna Loa (active volcano). At Honomalino Bay there are no any facilities, and camping and fires are forbidden.

From Kona are offered bus tours to Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park (180-acres NP at Honaunau Bay/island's south coast) and also to Puu Waawaa Forest Reserve (State Wildlife Sanctuary on the island's north coast).

Honomalino Bay

Kailua-Kona tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Kailua-Kona - user reviews and comments

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.

• Beverage Packages / Cruising / Food and Drink / Hawaii

NCL’s Hawaii Beverage Package: A Complete Guide

by Prof. Cruise · Published June 24, 2021 · Updated June 25, 2021

Since posting my “ 35 Tips For Your Cruise To Hawaii On NCL’s Pride Of America ” and my review and ship tour of the Pride of America , I’ve received a lot of follow-up questions, like “how did you get your hair to look that great in a tropical climate?”  Okay, I’ve never been asked that, but would it kill you to flatter me for once?  (The answer, BTW, is that I had it tied back in a makeshift bun, cemented into place by sweat, from embarkation to debarkation). 

In reality, most of the questions I’ve been asked have been about the Hawaii Beverage Package, which differs from the standard Premium Beverage Package (formerly called the “Ultimate Beverage Package”) available on most other NCL ships.  So I’ve prepared this guide to help you understand the Hawaii Beverage Package. I’ll answer all the specific questions I’ve received, discuss whether it’s a good deal for you, and offer tips on how to fully take advantage of it. I’ll even throw in some bar menus and drink pics.

How Much Does The Hawaii Beverage Package Cost?

The retail price of the Hawaii Beverage Package is $99 per person per day plus a 20% gratuity and beverage service charge that will be paid at the time of purchase.  So the Hawaii Beverage Package on the 7-day Pride of America sailing will cost you:

 $693 (base cost) + $138.60 (gratuity/service charge) = $831.60 total per person .

But if you’ve actually ever paid retail for an NCL beverage package, I have a $300 Prof. Cruise branded hat I’d like to sell you. 

Instead, most people who want the Hawaii Beverage Package opt to receive it as a “Free at Sea” promotion. 

What Do I Need To Know About Receiving The Hawaii Beverage Package As Part Of The “Free At Sea” Promotion?

Well the first thing you need to know is that it’s not “free.”  While the $99 per person per day base charge will be waved, you’ll still be paying the 20% gratuity and beverage service charge on the full retail price of the package.  That means you’ll pay $19.80 per person per day or $138.60 per person for the 7-day Pride of America sailing.

Second, if you opt for the “Free At Sea” promotion, you may pay more for your stateroom.  If you’re looking to save money on your cruise, you can do so by booking a “sail away” rate which means you will not receive most of the “Free At Sea” promotions and you won’t be able to select your stateroom (one in the category you chose or higher will be assigned to you), but your cruise fare will be less.  Here’s a mock booking for an inside cabin on the Pride of America just so you can get a sense of the price difference:

In the above case, you’d save $154 by booking a “sail away” inside cabin without the “free” promotions.

Is The Hawaii Beverage Package Worth The Cost?

The best way to determine this is to estimate the number of drinks you’ll consume per day, add them up, and see if the cost à la carte comes out to be more than the cost of the package (either outright or with the Free at Sea promotion). You can use the menus I’ll be posting below to give you an idea of the cost for the kinds of drinks you like. Here are a few additional things to consider when determining value:

• You’ll be spending most of your time off the ship in port. Unlike most cruises that include at least a few sea days, the Pride of America travels from island to island at night and spends the days (and even a few overnights) in port. This greatly limits the time you’ll have to drink on the ship.
• You’re likely to drink more if you get the drink package. I’ve found that I drink about 90% more when I have a drink package. Ask yourself, “do I really want to drink that much?” You might be just as happy with a few drinks a day and you’ll end up saving money by not getting the drink package.

Does The Hawaii Beverage Package Include Alcohol?

Before we get into everything the Hawaii Beverage Package includes, I want to clear something up that I get asked about a lot.  Yes, the Hawaii Beverage Package DOES include alcohol.  But it didn’t always include alcohol and that’s why there’s so much confusion around this. 

If you’d sailed on the Pride of America and purchased a beverage package prior to 2019, your vacation would have been as dry as California’s underbrush in August and you’d be just as likely to ignite: “What do you mean my package doesn’t include alcohol?!?”  Why, you ask?  Because (and this next part is speculation, but I think it’s probably true) the lawyers at NCL believed it would violate Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law.   So what changed?  I don’t know for sure, but I do know that the law in Hawaii didn’t change.  So I suspect NCL’s lawyers were able to figure out a way to remain in compliance and still offer a package that includes alcohol. 

NCL did add this verbiage to their fine print: The purchase of any alcoholic drinks within the Hawaii Beverage Package may, in certain individual circumstances, be restricted in accordance with Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law and applicable local rules and regulations.      

For practical purposes, that just means don’t get sloppy drunk and go bungee jumping off your balcony, wheeeeee, putting NCL at risk for a wrongful death lawsuit.

What Does The Hawaii Beverage Package Include?

Whether you purchase the Hawaii Beverage Package at retail price or through the “Free at Sea” promotion, here’s what it includes:

• Alcoholic beverages up to $15
• Fountain soda
• Bottled water (both flat and sparkling)
• Non-alcoholic beer
• A limited selection of specialty coffee if ordered in the dining rooms

What Does The Hawaii Beverage Package NOT Include?

• The extra cost for alcoholic beverages above $15.  In other words, you can order a drink priced above $15, but you will have to pay the difference for any amount over $15. 
• Specialty coffee at the John Adam’s Café or anywhere outside of the dining rooms.  I have a trick for this though, which I’ll share later.
• Any drink with an extra charge ordered through room service
• Drinks from the mini-bar in your cabin
• Vending machine drinks
• State and local taxes while at port in Hawaii

I want to spend a minute on that last one, because it’s a larger issue on the Pride of America Hawaiian cruise than it is on other sailings. Why, you ask? Because you’ll spend most of the time you’d be drinking docked at port. That means that for the vast majority of drinks you order, you’ll be charged state and local taxes. Here’s a sample receipt from my last sailing on the Pride of America in February 2020 just to give you a sense of how much you’ll pay:

So I paid $1.37 in taxes on $33 in drink charges. That’s just a bit over 4%. While it’s not a significant amount per transaction, it adds up over time, so be sure to save a bit of room in the budget to cover it.

How Does The Hawaii Beverage Package Differ From The Premium Beverage Package

On all other NCL ships, the beverage package is called the “Premium Beverage Package.” For practical purposes the only difference is that you can order from a limited menu of specialty coffees in the main dining rooms with the Hawaii Beverage Package. Specialty coffee in the main dining rooms is not included in the Premium Beverage Package.

Is There A Limit To The Number Of Alcoholic Drinks I Can Order Per Day With The Hawaii Beverage Package?

No. There is no stated limit on the number of drinks you can order per day as long as NCL is in compliance with Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law and you’re drinking just enough to enjoy your vacation AND get your money’s worth, but not so much that you die, get arrested, or accidentally bid on a piece of art (sold to Prof. Cruise for $5000 above the previous high bid after she tried every martini on the menu at Pink’s).

How Many Alcoholic Drinks Can I Order At Once With The Hawaii Beverage Package?

Double fist it (in other words, two per transaction)! Unless you’re Prof. Cruise. I can barely carry one drink at a time on a moving ship. Or a stationary ship. Or on dry land stone cold sober.

What Bars Are On The Pride Of America?

There are nine bars on the Pride of America: Aloha Lanai Bar, Gold Rush Saloon, John Adams Coffee Bar, Key West Bar and Grill, Waikiki Bar, Pink’s Champagne Bar, Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge, Napa Wine Bar, and Ocean Drive Bar. See below for a brief description of each bar, a menu if I have one (we were on one of the last sailings before cruising was halted due to Covid and no menus were out as a health precaution – however, I asked and was able to photograph most of them).

Aloha Lanai Bar

The Aloha Lanai Bar is located on deck 11 aft and offers a full bar with wine, beer, and cocktails.

Gold Rush Saloon

The Gold Rush Saloon is located on deck 11 midship and offers a number of beers on tap as well as wine and cocktails. This is the place to go if you want to catch a live sporting event on TV.

John Adams Cafe (coffee bar)

Located on deck 5 midship, the John Adams Cafe is where to get specialty coffee and tea (but note that they will not be covered by a drink package). There’s also a full bar. Here’s the coffee menu:

Key West Bar and Grill

The Key West Bar and Grill is located on deck 12 forward and specializes in all your tropical favorites! Here’s the menu followed by some pics of my recommended cocktails (this was one of my favorite spots).

Waikiki Bar

Located on deck 13 aft, the Waikiki Bar is a full bar offering wine, beer, and cocktails. Here’s the menu followed by my two favorite drinks:

Pink’s Champagne Bar

Located on deck 6 midship, Pink’s Champagne Bar was inspired by Hawaii’s Royal Palace Hotel on Waikiki Beach and specializes in champagne and martinis. This was my favorite bar – I’m a martini gal because they make me feel sophisticated when I’m not spilling them into my lap and telling random passengers “this isn’t pee” as I return to my cabin to change for the 3rd time. Here’s the menu and a few of the 1,000+ photos I took before I was cut off due to Hawaii’s Intoxicating Liquor Law.

Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge

Located on deck 6 forward, this lounge features a full bar and nightly entertainment.

Napa Wine Bar

A woman approached me on the Pride of America holding this travel mug and before she could part her lips to speak, I said “deck 6 midship.” “How did you know I was going to ask for directions to the wine bar?” she asked. “Just a hunch,” I replied.

Anyway, here’s the menu for the Napa Wine Bar:

Ocean Drive Bar

This full bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails is located on deck 11 midship and overlooks the South Beach Pool.

Tips For Getting The Most Use Out Of Your Hawaii Beverage Package

Now that we’ve covered which bars are available on the Pride of America, let’s move on to my extra credit pro tips on how to get the most out of the the Hawaii Beverage Package. I want to start with a few tips on how to use the Hawaii Beverage Package in the main dining rooms (MDR) and then I’ll offer some general tips:

MDR Tip: Order A Specialty Coffee In The Main Dining Room

A limited number of specialty coffees are available in the main dining rooms and are covered by your Hawaii Beverage package. These include: espressos, double espressos, lattes, and cappuccinos. Order for breakfast, with lunch and dinner, or with dessert.

MDR Tip: Order A Breakfast Cocktail In The Main Dining Room

My favorites are mimosas, screwdrivers, bloody marys, greyhounds, and coffee with a shot of Baileys.

MDR Tip: Order A Smoothie

We had our 8 year-old son with us on our last Pride of America Sailing and one of our lovely waiters suggested he order a fruit smoothie (which she said would be covered under our HBP). There’s no reason adults can’t order them too, though. Especially after a hot day at port in Hawaii!

MDR Tip: Order Wine, Beer, Or Cocktails With Lunch And Dinner

Here are the drink menus for the MDR’s followed by some pics:

MDR Tip: Order “Off-Menu” Cocktails

You’re not limited to the cocktails on the menu. Feel free to request something “off-menu.” While the MDR doesn’t have all the ingredients necessary to make every drink, they will be able to accommodate most requests (that holds true for the other bars on the ship too).

Tip: Don’t Panic When You See Your Drink Bill

Unlike on other NCL ships where you’ll get a receipt after each transaction that shows a $0 cost for drinks covered under your beverage package, on the Pride of America, your receipt will include the full retail price of your drinks, the gratuity/service charge, and tax. Rest assured though, everything but the tax will be removed before you receive your final bill for onboard purchases. On the receipt above, we only had to pay the $1.37 in tax.

Tip: But DO Double Check Your Final Bill For Onboard Spending

We found a mistake on our final bill – we were charged for several drinks that should have been included in the Hawaii Beverage Package. No biggie, I called guest services and they refunded our credit card. But double check your own bill for errors. It actually pays to do this every few days (you can view it on the TV in your cabin) or even daily as lines and waits for guest services can be longer toward the end of the cruise.

Tip: Go To The Waikiki Bar If You Want To Drink And Smoke

If you want a cigarette with your drink, head to the Waikiki Bar on deck 13 aft. Note that this is the only designated smoking area on the ship.

Tip: Avoid The Waikiki Bar If You Don’t Like Smoke

If you don’t like smoke, I’d avoid the Waikiki bar like you would Prof. Cruise in an elevator after Mexican day at the buffet: “I’ll catch the next one!”

Tip: Grab Boxed Water For Your Port Days

Boxed water is included with the Hawaii Beverage package and can be very handy to keep you hydrated while you’re exploring the islands. Grab a few boxes at the small bar within the buffet as you’re heading out to port in the morning. It’s sealed and can be safely taken off the ship.

Tips: Order Irish Coffee With Baileys

Do you love fancy spiked coffee drinks? Me too! Unfortunately there aren’t any included in the Hawaii Beverage Package. But there are a few hacks you can use to get one. I’ve already mentioned ordering a specialty coffee in the MDR with a shot of Baileys. But you can also order an Irish Coffee with Baileys at the John Adams Coffee Bar and it will be covered under your beverage package. I had many of these on the Pride of America and every time I did, several people asked me what it was. So you’ll get a delicious drink AND make some friends!

Tip: Ask For A To-Go Cup For Your Martini

You can avoid an awkward overshare with strangers regarding the wet spot on your shorts if you ask for your martinis in a “to-go” cup. After six days of multiple wardrobe changes, the bartender at Pink’s finally took pity on me and suggested this. I was being stingy on my extra tips on this cruise, otherwise he probably would have mentioned it on day one. Which brings me to my final tip:

Tip: Tip For Better Service

Here’s a tip, tip. A dollar or two in cash goes a long way in securing excellent service at your bar of choice. You’ve already paid gratuities with your package, so this isn’t required, but it’s appreciated by hard working bartenders and will almost guarantee great service.

Final Thoughts On The Pride Of America’s Hawaii Beverage Package

While I enjoyed having the Hawaii Beverage Package on my first sailing aboard the Pride of America, I probably wouldn’t opt for it again if I could save money on my cruise fare without it. This Hawaii itinerary is all about the ports. I’d rather spend my time and money exploring the beautiful, culturally rich Hawaiian islands.

Either way, I hope you have a wonderful time onboard the Pride of America and in Hawaii! Feel free to ask any questions you may still have in the comments and check out my “ 35 Tips For Your Cruise To Hawaii On NCL’s Pride Of America ” and my Review And Ship Tour Of The Pride Of America .

And if you do decide to get the drink package, don’t forget to pack this :

Class Dismissed.

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Mix It Up with Cocktails by Norwegian

Learn how to recreate your favourite cocktails on board from the comfort of your kitchen. A guest favourite, The Moscow Mule, is simple to make using few ingredients.

Ingredients:

1.25 OZ Vodka

4 OZ Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale

3 Fresh Lime Wedges

Instructions:

Begin by muddling lime wedges. Add vodka and ice cubes and shake it up! Be sure to break up the cubes as much as possible. Carefully pour into a chilled Moscow Mule mug (or your glass of choice) and then fill the rest of the mug (or glass) with ginger beer (or ginger ale). If you're fancy, garnish with ginger candy on a bamboo skewer.

Enjoy! #NorwegianStaycation #CruiseNorwegian