There are eight major islands and more than 120 minor reefs and islands in the Hawaiian island chain. Cruising is a way to visit many of the main islands in a short period of time without multiple airfares or having to pack and unpack in each port. Enjoy lush tropical forests, fabulous beaches, rugged volcanic landscapes, steep mountains, carefully groomed golf courses, snorkeling, nightlife and more.
Typical costs:
* Fares for 7-day roundtrips from Honolulu run $520-$1,100 for a standard cabin; $1,000-$1,650 for one with a balcony; and $1,600-$3,000 for a suite. Airfare to Hawaii is extra.
* 10-15-night cruises departing from the western mainland (anywhere from Ensenada, Mexico to Vancouver, BC and numerous ports in-between) start around $900-$2,700 for a cabin; $1,500-$2,900 for a balcony; and $1,700-$4,700 or more for a suite.
* Some cruises of 15-31 days are available at prices ranging from $1,100-$4,500 or more.
* Hawaiian cruises are offered year round. The best weather is summer and fall, when the islands get the least amount of rain. Summer and Christmas season are the most popular and therefore at the higher end of the price range. Except for holidays, cruises are cheapest November-February.
What should be included:
* Standard stops include Honolulu on Oahu; Kona on the Island of Hawaii; Lahaina or Kahului on Maui; Kauai; Lanai; and Molokai. CruiseCritic.com lists intriguing Hawaiian port excursions.
* USA Today explains which type of travelers most enjoy seeing Hawaii from a ship.
* For wildlife enthusiasts, dolphins are usually visible from ships year-round, but migrating whales are seen in Hawaii only in the winter months.
Additional costs:
* Port taxes and other fees vary; be sure they’re included in the quoted fare.
* On-shore activities are extra, and prices vary depending widely depending on what’s involved.
* Onboard tipping adds $5-$10 daily per traveler, or an additional $70-$140 for a couple on a seven-day trip. Some cruise lines, such as Radisson Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea and Windstar, include tips in the price.
* Luxury ships generally include everything except bar tabs and port excursions, while lower-priced vessels may charge for special shows, restaurants, spa treatments or other shipboard amenities, which can double the cost of a low-priced fare.
Discounts:
* Many cruise lines offer discounts for seniors or for early bookings. If traveling with a large group of family and friends, ask about a group rate.
* Look for last minute bargains on cruises that haven’t sold out.