Visiting Hawaii aboard a cruise ship is a popular way to see several islands in one trip. Cruise ships are essentially mobile resorts, offering entertainment and amenities for people of all ages. Plus, a cruise ship ticket usually includes the cost of your room and all your meals, so it can be an economical way to visit Hawaii and save costs on dining out and staying in hotels. Cruises to Hawaii leave from the U.S. mainland, Vancouver, Honolulu, and other ports of call.
Book your cruise using your credit card. You can do this online or through a travel agent. Several Web sites offer discounted cruise prices throughout the year or you can purchase directly through a cruise line. Consider when you want to cruise, how long you would like the cruise to last, what stops you want to make, and what cruise line you want to travel on. If you are flexible on any of those criteria, search online until you find the best deal and the right itinerary for your trip.
Book airfare or other travel arrangements to your cruise departure port city prior to the cruise and return travel arrangements after the cruise. Use your credit card to book your travel arrangements to and from the cruise departure port city.
Pack your luggage accordingly. Most cruise ships have one or two formal nights, so bring formal attire. Also, bring casual vacation clothes, beach wear, comfortable shoes, and anything else you will need on your trip. Pack travel accessories as well, such as sunscreen, bathroom supplies, your camera, and sunglasses. Finally, be sure to bring enough spending money for souvenirs and other expenses on your trip.
Board the ship. You will likely spend a few hours checking in and waiting in line to board the ship, though some cruise lines have shortened this process tremendously.
Unpack your luggage. Your cruise ship room is your home for the duration of your cruise, so get comfortable. There is no need to live out of your suitcase unless you prefer to do so. Most cruise ship rooms are designed similar to hotel rooms, with ample closet space for your clothes and storage in the bathroom for your toiletries. You will be able to leave your luggage safely stored in your cruise ship room; you will not need to bring it on and off the ship at each stop.
Take a tour of the ship (self-guided or with a cruise ship staff member). This will help you get a feel for the ship's layout, as well as give you an idea of what activities and amenities you absolutely must experience on board, such as the spa, gym, pool, and various restaurants, bars, and lounges.
Familiarize yourself with the travel itinerary. Get a feel for when the ship will be in each port of call and plan in advance any activities or tours you would like to book at a particular port. Many cruise tours and activities fill up quickly at the beginning of the cruise, so book your plans early.
