When considering the best time to go on a cruise, there are multiple factors that have to be accounted for — namely the region you want to sail. The best time for a Caribbean cruise isn’t going to be the same as the best time for a northern Europe or Alaska voyage, for example. Other factors like cost, weather, and crowds might also be things you take into consideration.

To help you figure out when you should best aim for taking a cruise, we’re breaking down our recommendations by region.

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How to Pick the Best Time to Go on a Cruise

Caribbean and Bahamas

There isn’t necessarily any “bad” time to cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas, with the region welcoming cruise ships all year-round. However there are things to take into consideration, such as hurricane season which runs from June through November. Prices tend to be a bit cheaper from September through November, because of this and because kids are back in school.

Weather and crowd-wise, we recommend taking a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise in the January to mid-May time period, not counting school break weeks. The weather is more mild this time of year, it’s not hurricane season, and crowds shouldn’t be quite as heavy when school is in session.

Alaska

The Alaska cruise season generally runs from mid-April through September; cruise ships don’t sail in the region when it’s at its coldest throughout the winter. Of the cruising season, there isn’t a clear-cut answer when it comes to when is “best.”

To avoid crowds, choose a voyage during the shoulder season in April, May, or September. The least rainy month is May, while the warmest (and busiest) will be July and August. Certain times of the Alaska cruise season also increase your chances of seeing wildlife and/or the Norther Lights.

Mediterranean

Cruise ships sail in the Mediterranean all year long, but the primary season runs from April into early November. For more mild weather and less crowds than during the busy summer season, aim for a Mediterranean voyage in early May or September.

For the lowest crowds, look for one of the few voyages sailing in the winter or early spring. If you’re looking for warmth and sunbathing weather, June and July are good bets — avoid August if possible due to the hottest temperatures and highest crowd levels.

Mexican Riviera

There isn’t really a “bad” time to cruise to Mexico’s west coast, as the weather ranges from balmy to hot the majority of the year, and cruise ships sail there year-round.

For warm weather that isn’t too hot and the best chance at no rain, look to visit the Mexican Riviera during the winter and into early spring. As long as you avoid time periods where kids are off from school (Christmas break, winter break, spring break, etc.), you’ll also encounter fewer crowds during this timeframe.

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Bermuda

The Bermuda cruise season generally runs from late March into early November. For mild weather, cheaper cruise fares, and fewer crowds, try to sail right at the beginning of the season in April or May. If you don’t mind spring break crowds, Good Friday and Easter is a fun time to visit Bermuda as there are lots of fun treats to eat and a Good Friday kite flying event at Horseshoe Bay Beach.

If enjoying the fanfare of a yacht racing event is more your speed, try to plan your cruise for the end of April at the beginning of the Bermuda International Invitational Race Week.

Northern Europe

Though cruises are available in northern Europe year-round, you’ll find the largest amount of voyages during the warmer months in spring, summer, and the beginning of fall. The best season to take a cruise in northern Europe weather-wise is in the summer from June through August. If you’re okay with cooler weather and want fewer crowds, opt for a sailing in September or October.

Canada/New England

The best time to visit Canada and New England is highly subjective based on what your goal is in going there. If you want the warmest, sunniest weather to explore quaint coastal towns and cities on the northern Atlantic seaboard, July and August are your best bets.

But many travelers head to this region specifically to see the dazzling fall foliage, in which case the best time to visit is October. September can be a good middle ground, because crowds will thin out (as school is back in session) but the weather will still be warm. There’s also a chance to see the start of the leaves changing towards the end of the month, though it varies from year-to-year and is never guaranteed.

Australia/New Zealand

Cruises sail Down Under year-round, and there is no cut-and-dry answer as to when the best season is to sail. Different parts of the region experience different weather in relation to the seasons, and it comes down to what’s most important to you.

For sunny skies and hot days in many parts of the continent where cruise ships sail, take a cruise during the austral summer. Since the seasons are flipped for the northern and southern hemispheres, that means during our winter season, from around December through March.

Waiting until at least February or March is a good idea for avoiding crowds, as Australian and New Zealander kids’ summer break generally runs from mid-December through January. For a voyage in northern Australia, consider March or later, as the cyclone season runs through February.

Hawaii

Like many other regions, there isn’t really a “bad” time to visit Hawaii. Certain times of year are preferable than others based on one factor, but another time of year will be more desirable based on another factor.

If you want more mild weather that isn’t in the rainy season, consider April to May or September to October. For the least chance of a rain shower (but the hottest temperatures), take a cruise to Hawaii in June, July, or August. For the best prices, look into voyages that sail in November and early December.

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What’s your best time to go on a cruise? Which of these regions have you visited on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share what time of year you like to vacation.

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You might be surprised as to how many regions of the world have tropical climates, which are defined as high year-round temperatures and wet/dry seasons. The tropics are officially located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. The tropics include the Equator and parts of North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Thus, if you are looking for the perfect beach escape, look no further than one of our top tropical cruise destinations.

Top Tropical Cruise Destinations

Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most popular tropical cruise vacations. Nearly 35% of all cruises sail the Caribbean.

The Caribbean offers that picturesque tropical vacation of which you are dreaming. Sprawling beaches, turquoise waters, rainforests, and umbrella drinks all await you. Which islands you visit does vary slightly by the ship and cruise line.

However, all Caribbean islands offer a variety of popular activities like beach breaks, island tours, snorkeling, and historic and cultural tours. There will also be adventure activities like zip lining and off-road tours at most ports of call. 

Itineraries in this region are generally divided into Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean routes. These itineraries can range from 4 or 5 days to traditional 7-day cruises.

Longer itineraries also exist including 9 or 11 days to even 14 days or more!

Related Post: Top Caribbean Cruise Tips

You won’t have a problem finding a tropical cruise to the Caribbean, as cruises to the Caribbean are offered year-round. There are also a variety of ships from all brands at various price points. In fact, many of the newest ships from the major cruise lines visit popular islands in the Caribbean region. 

Some of the more common stops include Jamaica; St. Thomas; St. Maarten; Tortola, BVI; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Aruba; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; and more.

Mexico

Another region that is a top tropical cruise destination is Mexico. While Western Caribbean itineraries often include visits to Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico, there are many other great locales in the Mexican Riviera.

More cruise lines are beginning to shift some of their latest and greatest ships to the West Coast to offer cruises in this region.

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Ports in the Mexican Riviera, like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, and Acapulco offer amazing beaches, immersive cultural and historical experiences, and a festive atmosphere day and night.

The Mexican Riviera is much like the Caribbean for West Coasters.

Like many of the tropical cruise regions, there are plenty of beach breaks, island tours, food tastings, and nature excursions to experience in the Mexican Riviera. Plus, there are exclusive offerings like whale watching, cultural shows like Rhythms of the Night, and some unique landscapes that you can’t find in the Caribbean.

While there are less ships sailing this region than the Caribbean, you will still have options from popular brands like Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises.

Hawaii

The accessibility to the Hawaiian islands makes it another popular tropical cruise vacation. Most Hawaiian cruises depart from the island of Oahu, visiting the Big Island and Maui. Some cruises also visit the island of Kauai.

With attractions like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and a selection of luaus, Oahu definitely requires a couple days to explore either pre-cruise or post cruise.

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The Big Island of Hawaii is very diverse. Its landscape ranges from volcanoes, mountainous terrain, beaches, rainforests, and everything in between.

A Hawaiian cruise itinerary is likely to include a stop at Hilo which is on the east side of the island as well as Kailua-Kona on the west coast of the island. One of our favorite excursions was a helicopter ride over the island to marvel at the volcanoes, lush landscapes, and rugged coastline.

Further, an over-night visit to the island of Maui is common on a Hawaiian cruise. Some of Maui’s most popular attractions include the Road to Hana and Haleakala Crater.

Several cruise lines have ships making stops in the region. As the only ship sailing in Hawaii year-round, NCL’s Pride of America is an easy choice. This Americana-themed ship sails a 7-night round-trip itinerary from Honolulu offering a comprehensive Polynesian experience. So, why not start planning your 2022 trip now?

Bahamas

Another top tropical cruise vacation, especially for cruises of shorter duration, is the Bahamas. Normally, these cruises depart from the East Coast of the United States. In fact, a majority of these cruises leave from Florida.

While you are probably familiar with Nassau, Bahamas, this region is also home to many cruise line private destinations.

These private islands offer exclusive access for passengers sailing with the cruise line. These islands usually offer included food, beach access with loungers, and other amenities. These destinations have come a long way over the years.

MSC Cruises just debuted its brand new Bahamian paradise at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, and Virgin Voyages is set to debut its brand new Beach Club at Bimini.

Norwegian Cruise Line has recently updated its private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay, as well. Then, who could forget Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay, featuring the tallest waterslide in North America, a large lagoon style pool, and an exclusive beach club.

There is also Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay, Carnival Cruise Line’s Half Moon Cay, and Princess Cays offering the perfect beach escapes.

Related Post: Guide to Budgeting for a Cruise

All major cruise lines offer Bahamas getaways ranging in length from 3 or 4-day cruises to more traditional 7-day cruises. These cruises also vary in price to accommodate all budgets.

French Polynesia

When many envision tropical cruise vacations, places like Tahiti, Bora Bora, or Fiji might come to mind. If the turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and over-water bungalows are calling your name, you might want to splurge on a cruise to the French Polynesia.

Besides luxurious beach days, these South Pacific islands offer other popular activities as well. Cruisers can explore the area on volcano hikes, snorkel excursions, 4×4 adventures, and so much more.

Of course, you will also want to experience the history, culture, and cuisine while visiting this tropical locale.

Major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises do offer sailings in this region. Typically, they are roundtrip sailings departing from Australia. However, some brands also offer select one-way itineraries that include this region.

For instance, Norwegian Cruise Line offers one-way itineraries from Hawaii to French Polynesia. Princess Cruises even offers select South Pacific crossings from Australia to the West Coast United States/Canada and occasional round-trip Tahiti cruises.

Related Post: Beginner’s Guide to Cruise Planning

If you are looking for a more intimate experience, brands like Windstar Cruises, Paul Gaugin Cruises, Oceania, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas offer a small ship experience that is perfect for visiting these South Pacific islands.

Central America

Most major cruise lines offer Panama Canal cruises. If cruising through this engineering marvel is not enough, these itineraries also visit tropical cruise locales in Central America. Ports of call like Panama, Costa Rico, and Colombia are often coupled with either Caribbean stops or Mexican Riviera stops along the way.

Panama Canal cruises are usually one-way trips from East Coast to West Coast (or vice versa), though they can be round-trip sailings as well. Brands like Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line all offer trips from Florida to either California, Washington, or Vancouver, BC.

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During your Central America cruise, you must explore the rainforests of Costa Rica. From eco-tours to ziplining excursions, there are so many ways to discover this beautiful topography. There are also wildlife reserves with sloth sightings, UNESCO World Heritage sites, native cultural performances, Mayan ruins, coffee estates, and more to explore in the tropical ports dotted along Panama Canal cruises.

Related Post: What Should I Book Before My Cruise?

Australia

Another bucket list tropical cruise vacation is Australia. It’s no wonder why as this region offers beautiful weather, iconic landmarks, sprawling beaches, and awe-inspiring natural landscapes.

While the northern part of Australia has a tropical climate, you will find the most selection of cruises to this region during the months of October to May.

Being such a vast continent with such varied landscapes, it is difficult to know where to begin planning a cruise Down Under. However, Australia’s beautiful coastline makes a cruise the perfect way to explore this region.

So, we suggest you do a bit of research on ports of call before choosing your itinerary.

Most of the major cruise lines typically offer sailings in Australia. Sydney is the most popular embarkation port. Though, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Fremantle also serve as embarkation ports for some ships.

The length of these itineraries can also vary greatly. From short 2, 3, and 4 day getaways, to typical 7 day cruises, to longer 12-17 day routes, and even select 28-32 day itineraries.

Related Post: What to Wear: Cruise Packing List

Beyond the urban city centers, there is so much to explore in Australia and neighboring New Zealand. From well-known attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, to UNESCO World Heritage sites, wineries, beaches, wildlife, and the famous Great Barrier Reef, there will never be a lack of things to do during your visit.

While you can’t cruise the region right now, it’s never too early to start planning that dream trip.

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How many of these tropical cruise destinations have you visited? Are any of these itineraries on your bucket list? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite places to cruise for the perfect beach escape.

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Are you looking to cruise without a passport? For U.S. citizens, passports are not required for all cruises. While we do recommend having a passport just in case, these are the top cruise destinations you can visit without one.

Can you cruise without a passport?

Yes, you can cruise without a passport (in certain situations). For U.S. citizens, a passport is not required for closed loop cruises. A closed loop cruise is a cruise that begins and ends in the same U.S. port.

For a closed loop cruise, a birth certificate and a government issued ID are the only forms of documentation required. The birth certificate must be the original or a certified copy with the raised seal. A photocopy will not be permitted.

Keep in mind that these requirements are for U.S. citizens only. For all other nationalities, a passport is generally required to cruise.

Of course, if you are traveling internationally, U.S. citizens will need a passport. A passport is required for all international flights and for any cruise that embarks or disembarks in a foreign country.

Further, passports are also required for cruises that begin and end in different locations (open loop cruises).

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Where Can I Cruise Without a Passport?

You can cruise without a passport to the Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations, and the good news is that you can cruise the Caribbean without a passport. Many of the newest mega-ships from contemporary cruise lines visit popular islands in the Caribbean region. There are also several U.S. departure points for Caribbean cruises.

The Caribbean offers that picturesque tropical vacation of which you are dreaming. With itineraries generally divided into Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean routes, you will have plenty of choices when it comes to a Caribbean cruise.

Which islands are visited does vary slightly by the cruise ship and cruise line. However, all islands offer a variety of popular activities like beach breaks, island tours, snorkeling, and historic and cultural tours. There will also be adventure activities like zip lining and off-road tours at most ports of call.

Again, do keep in mind if you decide to cruise without a passport, you might not be able to get off the ship in certain locations. For example, the Caribbean island of Martinique requires that all cruise passengers have a valid passport to go ashore.

You can cruise to the Bahamas without a passport

The Bahamas is another popular cruise destination that you can visit without a passport. Normally, these cruises depart from the East Coast of the United States, primarily from Florida homeports. If you are looking for a shorter duration cruise or just a quick getaway, then a Bahamas cruise is definitely for you.

While you are probably familiar with Nassau, Bahamas, this region is also home to many cruise line private destinations. These private islands offer exclusive access for passengers sailing with the cruise line. These islands usually offer included food, beach access with loungers, and other amenities.

For instance, MSC Cruises has a brand new Bahamian paradise at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Virgin Voyages has its new Beach Club at Bimini. Additionally, who could forget Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay. There is also Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay, Disney Cruise Line’s Castaway Cay, Carnival Cruise Line’s Half Moon Cay, and Princess Cays.

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You can cruise without a passport from Seattle to Alaska

For many, the seasonal cruise destination of Alaska is high on their bucket lists. An Alaskan cruise even lures those who wouldn’t necessarily consider a cruise. These vacations are more about the destination than the cruise ship. Cruises to Alaska appeal to nature lovers, photographers, and explorers. On an Alaskan cruise, you can set off in search of glacial vistas, wildlife encounters, and some of the freshest seafood.

Most major cruise lines offer sailings in this region. The most popular U.S. embarkation port for Alaska cruises is Seattle. Though, there are also roundtrip cruises from Vancouver and one-way itineraries.

These itineraries usually include port stops in Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, Alaska. These itineraries can visit Victoria and Vancouver, British Columbia as well. These ports of call offer a variety of shore excursion options from helicopter rides over glaciers, to whale watching, bear sightings, salmon bakes, and historic gold route tours.

Keep in mind that even though you are not required to have a passport to cruise to Alaska, some excursions like the White Pass Railway in Skagway may require a passport.

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Do you need a passport for Hawaii?

The accessibility of the Hawaiian islands makes it a popular cruise destination especially for those looking to stay within the United States.

Most Hawaiian cruises depart from the island of Oahu, visiting the Big Island and Maui. Some cruises also visit the island of Kauai. With attractions like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and a selection of luaus, Oahu definitely requires a couple days to explore either pre-cruise or post cruise.

The Big Island‘s landscape is very diverse with volcanoes, mountainous terrain, beaches, rainforests, and everything in between. One of our favorite excursions was a helicopter ride over the island.

An over-night visit to the island of Maui is common on a Hawaiian cruise as well. Some of Maui’s most popular attractions include the Road to Hana and Haleakala Crater.

Several cruise lines normally have ships making stops in the region. As the only ship sailing in Hawaii year-round, NCL’s Pride of America is an easy choice. This Americana-themed ship usually sails a 7-night round-trip itinerary from Honolulu offering a comprehensive Polynesian experience.

You can cruise without a passport to Bermuda

If you are looking to cruise without a passport, Bermuda is another popular choice. This British territory is home to some of the friendliest people and arguably the best beaches and natural landscapes in the Atlantic. 

Given that the island is further north than many of the other popular tropical destinations, the weather is a bit more seasonal here. Therefore, cruises to Bermuda generally occur from April to October. Still, that is almost half of the year to find some vacation time to enjoy all that Bermuda has to offer.

Many of the major cruise lines usually have ships that visit Bermuda. Most even offer two or three day stays to enjoy this beautiful location. You can use this time to explore Kings Wharf and other popular stops like St. George’s and Hamilton.

A Bermuda cruise might be the perfect choice for those living in the Northeastern United States as there will be no flying involved. Most Bermuda cruises leave from New York or Cape Liberty, New Jersey. A few also depart from Boston, MA, Baltimore, MD, and occasionally some southern ports like Florida.

You can go on a Mexican Riviera cruise without a passport

For those living on the West Coast, the Mexican Riviera might be the perfect destination to which to cruise without a passport.

Ports in the Mexican Riviera, like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, offer amazing beaches, immersive cultural and historical experiences, and a festive atmosphere day and night. The Mexican Riviera is much like the Caribbean for West Coasters.

Like many of the tropical cruise regions, there are plenty of beach breaks, island tours, food tastings, and nature excursions to experience in the Mexican Riviera. Plus, there are exclusive offerings like whale watching, cultural shows like Rhythms of the Night, and some unique landscapes that you can’t find in the Caribbean.

Mexican Riviera cruises most often depart from California homeports from brands including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. Royal Caribbean’s Navigator of the Seas also sails this region.

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Do you need a passport to cruise Canada and New England?

Last but not least, you can also cruise without a passport to Canada and New England. Canada/New England cruise itineraries are seasonal, running from May to October with the majority of sailings occurring during the Fall.

As native New Englanders, we sometimes take the fall foliage for granted. However, this seasonal change is a sight to behold for many.

Popular ports of call include Boston, MA; Bar Harbor, ME; Portland, ME; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and St. John, New Brunswick. Each of these ports offers its own historic and coastal charm.

In our homeport of Boston, you can learn more about the founding of the United States by trekking the Boston Freedom Trail. You can dive into the history of the Titanic when in Halifax. Or, you can see the Victorian era architecture and historic homes of Portland and visit Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor.

Our local cuisine is another great reason to cruise to Canada and New England. Portland is home to the one and only Maine Lobster, but the waters off these coasts are home to other seafood delights as well. You can enjoy a rich and creamy cup of New England clam chowder or some Rhode Island style calamari. There are also plenty of sweet treats including maple syrup, whoopie pies, and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream from nearby Vermont.

Like Bermuda cruises, popular embarkation ports for Canada/New England cruises are in the Northeast. New York, Cape Liberty (NJ), Baltimore, and Boston are the most popular.

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The two most important decisions you need to make when booking a cruise vacation is picking your cruise ship and your cruise location. While some cruisers will pick their vacation based soley on the ship, like the mega-ship Icon of the Seas which is a destination in itself, most will be guided by the cruise destinations they want to visit.

Whether it is a warm and sunny Caribbean island or a bucket list location like Antarctica, where to cruise is a big factor when reviewing potential vacations. With more and more locations now accessible by cruise ship, the options for cruising are practically endless. If you are looking to book your next trip, these are the top cruise destinations you need to visit.

Top Cruise Destinations You Need to Visit

Caribbean

The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations. In fact, nearly 13 million visited the region via cruise ship in 2023, and Caribbean cruises made up over 40% of the total cruises taken.

Many of the newest mega-ships from contemporary cruise lines visit popular islands in the Caribbean. If this is your first cruise, you will likely choose a 7-day Caribbean itinerary given the number of options available.

The Caribbean offers that picturesque tropical vacation that you have probably seen all over social media. Itineraries in this region are generally divided into Eastern Caribbean, Western Caribbean, and Southern Caribbean routes.

Popular Eastern Caribbean ports of call include St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, and the British Virgin Islands. Western Caribbean islands that are frequent stops for cruise ships include Jamaica, Honduras, and Belize, as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico. Finally, there is the Southern Caribbean, which includes Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao. Some Southern Caribbean itineraries also include St. Lucia, Barbados, and Antigua.

Many cruise ships alternate Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from week to week. Which islands are visited does vary slightly by the ship and cruise line. However, all islands offer a variety of popular activities like beach breaks, island tours, snorkeling, and historic and cultural tours. There will also be adventure activities like zip lining and off-road tours at most ports of call.

Bahamas

Another one of the top cruise destinations in the world, especially for cruises of shorter duration, is the Bahamas. Normally, these cruises depart from the East Coast of the United States. In fact, a majority of these cruises leave from Florida homeports.

While you are probably familiar with Nassau, Bahamas and its endless supply of beautiful beaches, this region is also home to many cruise line private destinations. These private islands offer exclusive access for passengers sailing with the cruise line. These islands usually offer included food, beach access with loungers, and other amenities.

These destinations have come a long way over the years, and this year is shaping up to be the best year yet. From re-imagined and upgraded islands to completely new destinations like Carnival’s Celebration Key, there are many options from various cruise lines.

MSC Cruises has its Bahamian paradise at Ocean Cay Marine Reserve. Disney Cruise Line now has TWO private retreats, Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Castaway Cay. Holland America’s Half Moon Cay is scheduled to receive an upgrade, and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay is getting a pier. Not to mention, there’s the fan-favorite Perfect Day at CocoCay and Virgin Voyages’ adult-only Beach Club at Bimini.

Alaska

Alaska is a seasonal cruise destination, but it is certainly one of the best in our opinion. If you haven’t visited Alaska yet, you definitely should. In fact, a cruise is the easiest way to visit this region.

An Alaskan cruise often lures those who wouldn’t necessarily consider a cruise otherwise because of its natural beauty and wildlife. These vacations are more about the destination, and they appeal to nature lovers, photographers, and explorers.

Along with glacial vistas, wildlife encounters, and some of the freshest seafood, Alaska hosts some of the newest and most innovate ships. In fact, all major cruise lines offer sailings in this region, usually on multiple ships. Some are more family-friendly, some are more enrichment-focused, and some even offer off-the-beaten-path expedition experiences.

Popular port stops include Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway, Alaska. These itineraries often visit Victoria and Vancouver, British Columbia as well. These ports of call offer a variety of shore excursion options from helicopter rides over glaciers, to whale watching, bear sightings, salmon bakes, and historic gold route tours.

If you want to cruise Alaska, you will need to do so in the summer. Alaska cruise season generally runs from May until September. These cruises also tend to be more expensive than Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Mediterranean

If you enjoy history and culture a Mediterranean cruise might be the perfect fit. In fact, second to the Caribbean, over 18% of all cruises occur in this region, with a large number of ships homeporting in the area during the summer months. Though, some cruise lines do sail this region year-round.

You will have plenty of options when it comes to choosing a cruise ship in this region. Many mainstream cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises visit the Mediterranean as well as more luxury brands like Viking Cruises and small-ship brands like Atlas Ocean Voyages.

There are over 20 countries that make up the Mediterranean region. Mediterranean cruises are typically divided into Eastern and Western itineraries. Western Mediterranean cruises typically visit popular ports of call in Spain, France, and Italy. While Eastern Mediterranean cruises typical visit Greece, Turkey, and Croatia.

Mediterranean cruises are usually port intensive, visiting multiple destinations over the duration of the trip. The port visits are also usually very long days as many of the popular tourist attractions are located quite a distance from the cruise ports, as is the case with Rome and Athens.

While this region does offer beautiful beaches and coastline, it is likely that you will spend much of your time ashore exploring historical sites and sampling the local cuisine.

Bermuda

If you have cruised the Bahamas and Caribbean before and want to visit someplace different, you can find some of the same beautiful weather and sandy beaches on a cruise to Bermuda. This British territory is home to some of the friendliest people and arguably the best beaches and natural landscapes in the Atlantic. It’s no wonder that there are more and more ships calling on this seasonal port every year.

Given that the island is further north than many of the other popular tropical destinations, the weather is a bit more seasonal here. Therefore, cruises to Bermuda generally occur from April to October. Still, that is almost half of the year to find some vacation time to enjoy all that Bermuda has to offer.

Many major cruise lines have ships that regularly visit Bermuda, with most offering two or three days to enjoy this top cruise destination. You will need this time to explore Kings Wharf and other popular stops like St. George’s and Hamilton.

Given its location, a Bermuda cruise might be the perfect choice for those living in the Northeastern United States as there will be no flying involved. Most Bermuda cruises leave from New York or Cape Liberty, New Jersey. A few also depart from our homeport of Boston, MA.

Mexican Riviera

Another top cruise location is the Mexican Riviera. More and more cruise lines are beginning to shift ships to the West Coast. Who could blame them?

Ports in the Mexican Riviera, like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, offer amazing beaches, immersive cultural and historical experiences, and a festive atmosphere day and night. The Mexican Riviera is much like the Caribbean for West Coasters.

Popular cruise lines in this region include Carnival Cruise Line which offers different departure points in Southern California. Princess Cruises also offers a few different itineraries in the region. Other cruise lines do offer some sailings in the Mexican Riviera, like Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line, though options are a bit more limited.

Like many of the tropical cruise regions, there are plenty of beach breaks, island tours, food tastings, and nature excursions to experience in the Mexican Riviera. Plus, there are exclusive offerings like whale watching, cultural shows like Rhythms of the Night, and some unique landscapes that you can’t find in the Caribbean.

Canada/New England

Like many of the other top cruise destinations, Canada/New England cruise itineraries are seasonal. The season runs from May to October with the majority of sailings occurring during the Fall. As native New Englanders, we sometimes take the fall foliage for granted. However, this seasonal change is a sight to behold for many. So, a host of cruise ships from most brands call on some of our favorite spots from mid September to the end of October.

Popular ports of call include Boston, MA; Bar Harbor, ME; Portland, ME; Halifax, Nova Scotia; and St. John, New Brunswick. Each of these ports offers its own historic and coastal charm. In our homeport of Boston, you can learn more about the founding of the United States by trekking the Boston Freedom Trail. You can dive into the history of the Titanic when in Halifax. Or, you can see the Victorian era architecture and historic homes of Portland and visit Arcadia National Park in Bar Harbor.

Our local cuisine is another great reason to cruise to Canada and New England. Portland is home to the one and only Maine Lobster, but the waters off these coasts are home to other seafood delights as well. You can enjoy a rich and creamy cup of New England clam chowder or some Rhode Island style calamari. There are also plenty of sweet treats including maple syrup and Ben and Jerry’s ice cream from nearby Vermont. Not to mention, the micro beer renaissance in the United States got started with a couple of Boston brands, Harpoon Brewery and Sam Adams. 

Further, fall cruises to Canada and New England are the perfect time for some wildlife sightings. Most notably, it is a great time for some whale watching in the Bay of Fundy.

Northern Europe

Whether you want to cruise to Iceland, the Norwegian Fjords, the Baltic capitals, or even the British Isles, Northern Europe is another top cruise destination. We have had the pleasure of exploring many stops in this region and all are equally as stunning. From the majestic Norwegian fjords, where towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls create a picture-perfect backdrop, to the medieval charm of the Baltic capitals, every port offers something unique. There’s also the dramatic landscapes of Iceland and the chance to spot polar bears on Arctic expeditions.

More and more cruise ships are visiting these regions every year— from mainstream lines like Celebrity, Princess, and Holland America, to luxury and expedition lines as well.

If you decide to sail the British Isles, you’ll visit charming ports in Great Britain and Ireland. In Belfast, you can visit the Giant’s Causeway, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland. Or, live a day in the Game of Thrones by visiting popular filming locations including the Dark Hedges. Edinburgh, Inverness, and Glasgow, Scotland, as well as the Orkney Islands and Shetland Islands, are also popular stops.

In Ireland, you can visit Dublin and Cork. Dublin is home to many popular attractions like the Guinness Storehouse, the Old Library at Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Temple Bar, St. Stephen’s Green, and so much more. While in Cork, you can visit the Blarney Castle and even kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

Norwegian Fjords itineraries typically stop in the popular city of Bergen, Norway, as well as some combination of other ports including Oslo, Stavanger, Geiranger, Alesund, and Flam. Some itineraries even cross into the Arctic with stops in Tromso. While others include stops in Reykjavik and Akureyri, Iceland. Here, you can visit the famous Blue Lagoon, stand between two tectonic plates at Thingvellir National Park, and marvel at waterfalls, geothermal fields, and volcanic landscapes.

Baltic cruises typically feature stops in Helsinki, Finland; Tallinn, Estonia; Stockholm, Sweden; and Copenhagen, Denmark. With so much medieval architecture, historic churches, and one of a kind landmarks, there will be a photo opportunity around every corner.

Hawaii

We took our first cruise to Hawaii back in 2019 and loved it. The accessibility to the chain of islands makes Hawaii a top cruise destination.

Most Hawaiian cruises depart from the island of Oahu, visiting the Big Island and Maui. Some cruises also visit the island of Kauai. With attractions like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and a selection of luaus, Oahu definitely requires a couple days to explore either pre-cruise or post cruise.

The Big Island of Hawaii is very diverse. Its landscape ranges from volcanoes, mountainous terrain, beaches, rainforests, and everything in between. A Hawaiian cruise itinerary is likely to include a stop at Hilo which is on the east side of the island as well as Kailua-Kona on the west coast of the island. One of our favorite excursions was a helicopter ride over the island to marvel at the volcanoes, lush landscapes, and rugged coastline.

Further, an over-night visit to the island of Maui is common on a Hawaiian cruise. Some of Maui’s most popular attractions include the Road to Hana and Haleakala Crater.

Several cruise lines have ships making stops in the region. However, as the only ship sailing in Hawaii year-round, NCL’s Pride of America is an easy choice. Featuring some familiar favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki, in addition to some unique Hawaiian themed venues, Pride of America serves as a great backdrop to your long days ashore.

Cruise ships from other brands typically sail this region while repositioning before and after the Alaska cruise season.

Australia/New Zealand

Another bucket list cruise destination is Australia and New Zealand, which we recently had the chance to experience for ourselves. It’s no wonder why as this region offers beautiful weather, iconic landmarks, sprawling beaches, and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. While Australia does offer year-round cruises, you will find the most selection during the months of October to May.

Most major cruise lines now offer cruises in this region with Sydney being the most popular embarkation port. Being such a vast continent with such varied landscapes, it is difficult to know where to begin planning a cruise Down Under. However, Australia’s beautiful coastline makes a cruise the perfect way to explore this region. We suggest you do a bit of research on ports of call before choosing your itinerary.

If you want to snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, pick a cruise that heads north. These itineraries will likely still start in Sydney but will visit ports like Whitsunday Islands, Cairns, Port Douglas, and Brisbane. Alternatively, if you want to explore more of Southern Australia, pick an itinerary that includes ports like Melbourne, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, and Tasmania.

Beyond the urban city centers, there is so much to explore in Australia. From well-known attractions like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, to UNESCO World Heritage sites, wineries, beaches, wildlife, and the famous Great Barrier Reef, there will never be a lack of things to do during your visit.

In addition to Australian destinations, these cruises often include ports of call in New Zealand. New Zealand offers opportunities to live out your Lord of the Rings fantasy, cruise through Fiorland National Park, hike the stunning landscapes, and learn more about the indigenous Maori people.

While a few days in Australia or New Zealand are not nearly enough time to take in all the region has to offer, you can certainly visit some of the highlights. Adding a few days pre-cruise or post cruise is also recommended, especially to overcome jet lag prior to embarking on your cruise.

Antarctica

Antarctica is one of the top cruise destinations for adventurous travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience in one of the most remote and untouched regions on Earth. Unlike any other cruise destination, Antarctica offers jaw-dropping landscapes, massive icebergs, and snow-covered peaks, creating an otherworldly backdrop for exploration. And wildlife lovers will be in awe of the abundant marine life, from playful penguins and seals to pods of whales gliding through icy waters.

Expedition cruises to the White Continent provide thrilling opportunities for zodiac landings, kayaking, and even setting foot on the continent itself. With strict visitor regulations to preserve its fragile ecosystem, an Antarctica cruise offers an exclusive and immersive way to experience this great wilderness.

For cruisers who have explored the world’s other top destinations and are seeking something truly extraordinary, Antarctica is the ultimate bucket-list voyage. And lucky for you, more and more cruise lines are visiting the region each year. However, do your research carefully before booking this trip of lifetime. Some cruise lines have larger ships that sail the region, but we suggest you pick a smaller expedition vessel that allows you to actually visit the continent.

We sailed to Antarctica with Atlas Ocean Voyages, which offered the perfect mix of cruise amenities and ashore experiences for us. Viking, Silversea, and Seabourn also have expedition ships in the region as do more adventure-focused brands. There are even some itineraries that eliminate the need to cross the notorious Drake’s Passage.

Japan/Asia

Japan and other Asian cruise ports are rapidly gaining popularity as top cruise destinations, offering a perfect blend of ancient traditions, modern innovation, and breathtaking natural beauty. Japan, in particular, has become a standout destination for cruisers. Ports like Tokyo and Yokohama offer an exciting mix of neon-lit streets, historic shrines, and vibrant food scenes, while Kyoto and Hiroshima provide a deep dive into Japan’s cultural and historical heritage. There also the opportunity to see highlights like cherry blossoms and the majestic Mt. Fuji. With Japan’s welcoming atmosphere, it’s an easy and accessible cruise destination that offers something for every type of traveler.

Beyond Japan, other Asian cruise ports are also attracting more ships. Cities like Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore are already well-established cruise hubs, offering a mix of high-energy city life, rich history, and incredible food. Meanwhile, destinations like Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay, Thailand’s Phuket, and South Korea’s Busan are gaining traction.

With cruise lines increasing their presence in the region, it’s never been easier to explore Asia by sea. Japan is certainly high on our bucket list. We will also be venturing to Singapore for the first time to check out Disney Cruise Line’s newest and most innovative ship, Disney Adventure.

Galapagos

The Galapagos will forever be memorialized as the inspiration behind Charles Darwin’s On the Origin of Species. You too can take home some memories from these dynamic and diverse islands found off the coast of Ecuador during your cruise to the Galapagos.

With more ships visiting the region, the Galapagos is becoming another top cruise destination on many travelers’ bucket lists. If you are planning a cruise to this region, research the itineraries closely as all cruise lines offer a variety of experiences visiting several of the 20+ islands that make up the Galapagos archipelago.

Generally, Galapagos cruises are categorized into Inner Loop and Outer Loop cruises. These cruises may also include pre-cruise or post cruise land tours that visit Ecuador’s capital of Quito or Peru’s Machu Picchu. Have your cameras ready as wildlife and dramatic land formations abound at every stop. Blue-footed boobies, sea lions, sea turtles, penguins, and iguanas are just some of the creatures you will discover.

Celebrity Flora offers “Galapagos Glamping” at its finest. Celebrity Flora is a 100 passenger vessel that is purpose-built for the region. It offers all-suite accommodations for one of the most luxurious cruises in the Galapagos. Additionally, Lindblad, Silversea, and HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), among others, all have at least one expedition ship offering cruises to this famed destination.

European Rivers

European rivers are becoming one of the top cruise locations due to their unique blend of immersive cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and intimate travel. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises take passengers directly into the heart of Europe’s most historic and charming cities without the hassle of long transfers. Sailing along iconic rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Rhone, or Elbe, travelers can witness picturesque countryside, medieval castles, and UNESCO heritage sites right from their ship.

These smaller river ships typically offer a more all-inclusive atmosphere and a more relaxed and immersive way of travel. Whether it’s tasting wines in Bordeaux, exploring historic castles along the Rhine, or soaking in the vibrant Christmas markets of Germany and Austria, these cruises provide curated experiences for history buffs, food and wine enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike.

Many river cruise lines include guided shore excursions, and some even offer privileged access to top sites allowing you to avoid the crowds.

With European river cruises surging in popularity, cruise lines continue to introduce innovative ships with more luxurious amenities, wellness programs, and even themed sailings. We’ve recently had the chance to sail the Seine River with Viking and the Danube with AmaWaterways and can certainly see the appeal.

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What are some of your top cruise locations? How many of these regions have you visited so far? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite cruise itineraries.

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The landscape of the Big Island in Hawaii is very diverse, ranging from volcanoes, mountainous terrain, beaches, rainforests, and everything in between. If you are taking a cruise to Hawaii, the itinerary is likely to include a stop at Hilo which is on the east side of the island as well as Kailua-Kona on the west coast of the island. Both ports of call offer a variety of options for exploring all the island has to offer. After a recent visit, we have put together our list of the Top Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii on a Cruise.

Top Things to Do on the Big Island of Hawaii on a Cruise

Visit Volcanoes National Park

When you think Hawaii, volcanoes are probably one of the first things that you picture. That is why a visit to Volcanoes National Park should be on the top of your list when visiting the Big Island of Hawaii. At this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see two of the world’s most active volcanoes, as well as craters, steam vents, and sulfur banks.

You should start your trek at the Kilauea Visitor’s Center. Here, you can view interactive exhibits, learn about the recent eruption and resultant dramatic changes in landscape, and interact with park rangers. Most cruise lines will offer different guided tours, but there are also several trails for self-guided explorations. If you are venturing out on your own, be sure to grab a map for current conditions, closures, etc.

Along the Crater Rim Drive tour, you can score amazing views from the Kilauea Iki Overlook, where you can see Halema‘uma‘u and Mauna Loa in the distance. The Jaggar Museum and Thurston Lava Tube, two other previously popular stops in the park, remained closed during our visit last year. If you are up for a challenge, you can even take a 3-mile hike to visit the vast craters and caldera collapse that were created from the 2018 eruptions.

Get a Bird’s Eye View with a Helicopter Flight

There is no better way to see the Big Island than with a helicopter flight. We booked the Big Island Spectacular flight ride during our visit to Hawaii and cannot say enough good things about this excursion. While it is a bit pricey, it is certainly an awe-inspiring experience.

With this tour, you will get an up-close view of the Kilauea volcano, learn about the 2018 eruption, and see some of the devastation caused by it. You will also fly over beaches, dramatic coastline, lush forests, and the deep valleys of the Kohala Mountains with cascading waterfalls during your 1.5 to 2 hour journey. During the flight, your pilot will provide narration and answer questions. Be sure to have your cameras ready as this is definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity.

There are also shorter (and less expensive) helicopter tours available. The Circle of Fire is another popular option which focuses the 45 minutes of flight time over the Kilauea volcano. Whichever helicopter tour you choose, you are sure to agree that it ranks as one of the top things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii.

Reach New Heights at the Mauna Kea Summit

The dormant volcano, Mauna Kea, is the highest point in Hawaii. If you are looking for a bit of adventure during your visit to the Big Island, you should make the trek to the summit at 13,796 feet above sea level for some breathtaking views. You can also earn the bragging rights of visiting the only place in the Hawaiian Islands where it actually snows! Today, the mountain is the world’s premier site for astronomy.

For your summit adventure, you will journey in a 4×4 vehicle along the lava landscapes slowly acclimating yourself to the altitude changes. Your first stop will be the Onizuka Visitor Center located at 9,000 feet. Then, continue the journey above the clouds to the summit for some amazing panoramic views, including Mauna Loa which is the largest volcano in Hawaii. You will also visit the Keck Observatory which contains two of the most valuable telescopes in the world.

Related Post: Celebrity Solstice Hawaiian Cruise Review

Go Chasing Waterfalls

Among all the beautiful photos that you’ve see of Hawaii, you’ve probably also seen many spectacular waterfalls. Two of the most popular waterfalls on the Big Island are Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls.

Rainbow Falls is conveniently located in Wailuku State Park in the town of Hilo. This waterfall cascades 80 feet into a natural lava rock pool. While only a modest height, this fall is known for the rainbows that are cast in its mist. Legend states that the goddess of the moon, Hina, lives in the lava cave behind the falls.

The larger of the falls is Akaka Falls which is located north of Hilo in Akaka Falls State Park. A short hike will take you through the rainforest to admire the stunning 442-foot waterfall plunging into the gorge below. You can also catch a glimpse of the Kahuna Falls from the park.

Go Nuts for Macademia

The Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory and Visitor Center is a popular stop on many island tours from Hilo. The company is the largest producer on the Big Island harvesting some 35 million pounds of macadamia nuts each year. On your tour, you will drive through a 3-mile stretch of nut orchards on your way to the visitor center. While here, you can witness the stages of growing, harvesting, processing, and packaging. You can also explore the gift shop to enjoy some free samples and purchase a tasty souvenir of your visit to the island. If you are on the Kona coast, you can visit the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company for a similar experience.

Explore the Flora

With such fertile volcanic soil, there are plenty of beautiful gardens to be explored on the Big Island. Liliuokalani Park and Garden in Hilo is one of the largest ornamental Japanese gardens outside of Japan. While the Hawaiian Tropical Botanical Garden has more than 2,000 different plant species to discover, and Nani Mau Gardens does not disappoint either with its own various species of tropical flora.

If you love flowers, you will want to visit the Akatsuka Orchid Garden to see why Hilo is considered the “flower capital of the world”. This retailer has over 500 blooms on display including a $20,000 orchid!

Pana’ewa Rainforest Gardens & Zoo is considered the only rainforest botanical garden and zoo in the United States. It showcases animals from rainforest climates as well as several varietals of palms, orchids, and bamboo.

From Kona, you will want to visit the Cloud Forest. This dense forest and botanical garden is located 3,000 feet above sea level on the slopes of a dormant volcano, Hualalai. You can stroll beneath the evergreen canopy while you learn about this endangered ecosystem.

Visit a Black Sand Beach

You can’t go to Hawaii and not step foot on a black sand beach. If you are searching for one of the best-known black sand beaches in the world, look no further than Punalu’u which is located south of Hilo. You can admire the beauty of the rugged coast, walk the shoreline, or check out the Hawaiian turtles while here.

Richardson Ocean Park is the closest black sand beach to Hilo. As the water tends to be calmer here, it is also a good place for snorkeling on the east side of the island. This protected area is a marine sanctuary with seals and green sea turtles frequenting the area.

While in Kona, you can make your way to Pololu Valley to admire the coastal scenery and hike down to one of the island’s most scenic black sand beaches. Waipio Valley, though remote, has its own black sand beach as well.

Indulge in the Island Delights

You’ve heard of Kona coffee, but did you know Kona is also known for chocolate and signature ales? While visiting the Big Island, why not indulge in all the island delights on one tour?

The Mountain Thunder coffee plantation, Greenwell Farms, and Kona Joe’s Coffee are popular spots to tour, learn how the coffee is grown, harvested, and processed, and sample several varieties of this highly popular coffee. Of course, there are also numerous cafes on the island if you just want to grab a cup to go.

For chocolate lovers, the Puna Chocolate Company specializes in creating “tree-to-bar” chocolate grown in Hawaii. The Original Hawaiian Chocolate Factory is another chocolate lover’s paradise. At either of these stops, you can take a tour to learn about the process of making chocolate as well as sample some of the factory’s more unique flavors.

After you’ve fueled up on coffee and chocolate, round out your day with a stop at the Kona Brewing Company for some “liquid aloha”. You can sample some of the signature ales with hints kona coffee, coconut, and more.

Get Up Close with the Sea Life

Kona is a popular spot for snorkeling and whale watching. The waters of the protected Kealakekua Bay are home to spectacular coral, tropical fish, dolphins, manta rays, green turtles, and whales depending on the season. A variety of snorkeling excursions, zodiac adventures, and glass bottom boat tours are available to get up close and personal with this friendly sea life.

If you are looking for something a bit different, you could visit the Seahorse Farm. That’s right, it’s the only one of its kind in the United States. At this oceanfront farm, you will see the world’s largest collection of living seahorses and sea dragons. This sanctuary is dedicated to preserving and breeding endangered seahorses. You can learn all about these creatures (like how it is the only animal in which the male has a pregnancy) and even interact with them.

Discover Some Historical Sites

Puuhonua O Honaunau is one of Hawaii’s most sacred places. This well-restored national historic park was once an ancient Hawaiian religious site and a place of refuge for lawbreakers. You can explore the ancient Hawaiian artifacts, the Royal Grounds, and be sure to grab a photo of the ki’i wooden figures guarding the temple.

Kealakekua Bay is a large marine sanctuary but it is also of historical significance as this is where Captain James Cook first landed on the island in 1778, and subsequently where he was also killed. Today, there is a large moment that stands in his honor at this location.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park has preserved treasures of ancient civilization depicting how native Hawaiians survived and made a living in this environment. You can explore fishponds, thatched roof houses, early temples, and even petroglyphs to admire the ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Hulihee Palace, built in 1838, is located in the heart of Historic Kailua Village. This palace was once the summer home for Hawaiian royalty but has since been converted to a museum showcasing artifacts from the era of King Kalakaua ad Queen Kapiolani.

St. Benedict’s Painted Church is an important historical site but also still functions as an active catholic church in Kona. Built in 1842, this church was later moved to its current location. It is known as the painted church because it features vibrant paintings of biblical scenes on its walls and ceilings.

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Have you visited Hilo or Kona, Hawaii? Do you agree with our list of the top things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share your Hawaiian cruise experiences.

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If you are cruising to Hawaii, you must attend a luau in at least one of your ports of call. This traditional Hawaiian feast, accompanied by music and cultural performances, is something all visitors to the islands should experience. Depending on your cruise ship’s itinerary, you will have a number of luau options at the various Hawaiian Islands. If you are wondering where to start, we have put together this list of the Best Luaus in Hawaii that are consistently highly recommended among cruisers.

Best Luaus in Hawaii in 2020

Paradise Cove Luau (Oahu)

If you are spending a few days pre-cruise or post cruise in Oahu, you will have your pick of luaus on this island. During our visit, we chose the Paradise Cove Luau which is located about 45 minutes away from the Waikiki Beach area. Located at the Ko Olina Resort, you can enjoy some pre-dinner Hawaiian activities like lei-making and spear throwing, followed by an island buffet, and the Hawaiian revue show.

Paradise Cove offers a few different package options that include either a shell or fresh flower lei upon arrival, a complimentary mai tai punch, and dinner. The deluxe package which is the most expensive will give you prime seating locations, a table service meal instead of a buffet, and a souvenir photo.

Polynesian Cultural Center (Oahu)

For a day full of Hawaiian history and culture, head to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Located about an hour away from Honolulu, this interactive experience allows you to explore 6 different island nations through cultural presentations and exhibits. There is also Polynesian food, an authentic luau, the one of kind Ha Breath of Life show, canoe rides, and so much more.

The center offers various tiered ticket packages depending on what you want to accomplish during your visit. The most expensive package which is called the Super Ambassador Luau Package includes a guided tour of the villages, your choice of a Ali’i Luau Buffet or Prime Rib Buffet, prime seating at all shows, and a reserved canoe ride.

Related Post: Top Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii

Germaine’s Luau (Oahu)

Germaine’s Luau is also another popular option in Oahu. This luau is again located about 45 minutes from Waikiki Beach. At Germaine’s, you will feel the spirit of Aloha while experiencing the “original backyard-style Hawaiian Luau”. The menu here is buffet-style as well offering Hawaiian-American fare like roasted pig, teriyaki beef, Hawaiian chicken, island fish, and plentiful side dishes and desserts.

Pricing includes three different tier options with the most expensive being the Plumeria Luau Package. This package includes front row seating, table service, an entrance photo, and 3 drink tickets in addition to the standard offerings. Following dinner, the evening show will take you on a journey to the islands of Tahiti, Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, and the romantic hula of Hawaii.

‘Aha ‘Aina Royal Hawaiian Luau (Oahu)

If you are looking for something a bit closer, the Royal Hawaiian hotel located right on Waikiki Beach has its own Royal Luau. The ‘Aha ‘Aina is Waikiki’s only oceanfront luau and dinner show. The evening begins with traditional Hawaiian activities, followed by a feast of various Polynesian flavored dishes. After dinner, the story of Helumoa begins featuring hula song and dance. Follow the cultural timeline from ancient history, to the opening of the Royal Hawaiian, to contemporary island music and dance.

The menu consists of a poi and poke station, fresh fruit, salad, huli huli chicken, Korean BBQ ribs, a pig carving station, dessert, and more. Pricing includes standard and premium seating, as well as cocktail seating which is for two drinks and the show only.

Old Lahaina Luau (Maui)

If your cruise ship is in port late or even overnight, you might want to attend an authentic luau experience while in Maui. The Old Lahaina luau is one of the most popular options, located on the oceanfront right off of Front Street. Here, you can enjoy a buffet of popular Polynesian dishes along with a sunset view.

Your evening will consist of a traditional lei greeting and island demonstrations before dinner, followed by a musical journey through the history of Hawaii and its people after dinner. The buffet menu includes Hawaiian pork, beef, chicken, and vegetarian dishes with accompaniments. Reservations can be made for either a table and chairs set-up or a traditional low table and cushion set-up for a more authentic feel.

Feast at Lele (Maui)

The Feast at Lele is a more upscale experience that is also located nearby on Front Street. This option provides a 5-course meal with gourmet cuisine and wine pairings. The menu features courses from the Pacific Islands of Aotearoa, Tahiti, Samoa, and Hawaii. The cuisine shares the spotlight with exotic music and dance as the evening unfolds.

The evening begins in Hawaii with some hula and a first course of dishes. Then, you will journey to New Zealand for your second course which will be accompanied by a traditional war dance. Next up is the romance of Tahiti. Your third course will be paired with a sensual dance performance. Finally, you will travel to Samoa for an energetic dance and your fourth course of the meal. But, the night isn’t over until you have some dessert and witness the famed fire dance.

Myths of Maui Luau (Maui)

Another popular luau choice is the long-running Myths of Maui Luau at the Royal Lahaina Resort located along Ka’anapali Beach. Showcasing the cultural and culinary spirit of the island, this luau features a traditional lei greeting, unearthing of a pig, a Hawaiian feast, and a musical journey through Polynesian culture culminating with a fire knife finale.

Stunning sunsets, the oceanfront backdrop, and complimentary cocktails will further enhance your evening. Yes, admission includes an open bar, so you can enjoy a Mai Tai, Blue Hawaii, or one of the many other drinks on the menu! This luau offers general admission, VIP seating, and show only tickets. The menu consists of buffet-style roasted pig from the in-ground oven, local fish, teriyaki chicken, salads, sides, desserts, and more. With a combination like this, it’s no wonder this luau continues to wow audiences after all these years.

Drums of the Pacific Luau (Maui)

The Drums of the Pacific Luau is located at the Hyatt Regency just steps away from Ka’anapali Beach with beautiful sunsets setting the scene for a magical evening in Maui. Like many of the other options, this luau includes a lei greeting, Polynesian crafts, an Imu ceremony (unearthing of the pig), and a dinner buffet. This luau option also includes an open bar.

This show has been entertaining guests for almost 40 years! It includes performances of authentic songs and dances from old Hawaii, Tahiti, the Tuamotus, Rarotonga, New Zealand, Tonga, and Samoa. Be prepared for hip shaking, drum pounding, spear thrusting, and fire twirling. There are three tiers of ticket pricing with the most expensive being VIP seating. This ticket includes an orchid lei, priority buffet, and front row seating.

Luau Kalamaku (Kauai)

The Luau Kalamaku provides an authentic Hawaiian experience on the island of Kauai. Located on the Kilohana Plantation, you can arrive early to stroll the grounds before the evening of feasting and dancing begins. There are three different experiences available to book. All include the award winning show which tells the story of an “epic voyage between Hawaii and Tahiti along one of the longest sea roads of Polynesia”. Traditional hula dances and Tahitian rhythms are combined with a state-of-the-art media system and an interactive stage design for a truly immersive show that culminates with fire poi balls and traditional fire knife dancing.

The Hawaiian Luau package includes a buffet style feast and open bar, along with the show. The exclusive Plantation Owners Experience begins with a champagne toast and a four course dinner at Gaylord’s Restaurant featuring a unique menu with ingredients right from the Kilohana Plantation. This package also offers premier seating for the luau. Or, guests can choose to just attend the luau which includes reserved seating and a welcome drink.

Smith Family Garden Luau (Kauai)

The Smith Family luau has been in operation for over 50 years and spanning four generations. It continues to honor the spirit of aloha with traditional Hawaiian hula, Tahitian drum dances, and the Samoan fire knife dance during the Rhythm of Aloha show. Guests can also feast on roasted pig along with other dishes inspired by family recipes. 

Upon arrival, guests will have the option of taking a narrated tram ride or a leisurely stroll around the 30 acres of lush gardens. Then, guests will learn the traditional Hawaiian cooking method of kalua during the imu ceremony before indulging in a luau feast. The buffet features authentic pork, beef, chicken, and fish dishes along with delicious accompaniments and desserts. Ticket prices even include an open bar. 

No matter which luau you choose, you will certainly enjoy an evening of traditional fare, exotic cocktails, and the Polynesian culture.

Comments

Have you visited Hawaii on a cruise? Have you attended any of these Best Luaus in Hawaii? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite activities in Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. 

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If you are taking a cruise to Hawaii, odds are you will be visiting Maui. Many ships dock in Lahaina harbor on the west side of the island, while NCL’s Pride of America docks in Kahului on the east side. These two ports are approximately 45 minutes away from each other. Regardless of where your ship docks, all of the island’s most popular attractions are waiting for you to explore. Wondering what you should do during your visit to this Hawaiian island? We have put together our list of the Top Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii on a Cruise.

Top Things to Do in Maui, Hawaii on a Cruise

Road to Hana

Yes, you could rent a car and set off on your own adventure to Hana. Or, you can sit back and enjoy the scenery as a guide navigates this famed winding road for you. Along the journey, you will marvel at waterfalls, bamboo forests, lush hillsides, the rugged northern coastline, and so much more.

There will be plenty of photo stops along the way at various lookout points and state parks. You may even stop at one of the many roadside stands to sample some fresh made banana bread. Wai’anapanapa State Park is a popular stop with a black sand beach and caves. Our tour reversed direction in Hana, but if time allows, you can continue further to the Seven Sacred Pools. Be aware that this is a long tour with lots of time spent driving.

Attend a Luau

If your cruise ship is in port late or even overnight, you will want to attend an authentic luau experience while in Maui. The Old Lahaina luau is one of the most popular options, located on the oceanfront right off of Front Street. Here, you can enjoy a buffet of popular Polynesian dishes along with a sunset view. The Feast of Lele is a more upscale experience. This option provides a 5-course meal with gourmet dishes and wine pairings.

Other popular luau choices include the long-running Myths of Maui Luau at the Royal Lahaina Resort and Drums of the Pacific Luau at the Hyatt Regency. No matter which luau you choose, you will certainly enjoy an evening of traditional fare, exotic cocktails, and the Polynesian culture.

Haleakala Crater

No trip to Maui would be complete without a visit to Haleakala National Park. Depending on when your cruise is in port, various tours are offered including sunrise and sunset visits. As you journey from sea level to the summit at 10,000 feet, you can admire the panoramic island scenery, catch a glimpse of the unique plant and animal life, and of course, marvel at the crater itself.

Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano, last erupted in 1790. You can see this massive and tranquil landscape from almost anywhere on the island, but you cannot fully appreciate the extent of it until you make your way to the top. The vast crater is over seven miles across and 2 miles wide. It has a depth of nearly 3,000 feet. Yes, the entire city of Manhattan could fit into it! Be sure to grab plenty of photos from the crater visitor center viewing area, but be warned that the temperature and wind conditions can be drastically different at the summit.

Related Post: Celebrity Solstice Hawaii Cruise Review

Snorkel at Molikini Crater

Molokini is a tiny crescent-shaped island just 3 miles off the southwestern coast of Maui. This island has been rated as one of the top snorkel sites in the world. It is all that remains above sea level of a volcanic crater that erupted some 200,000 years ago. The crescent shape helps protect the area from waves and is home to a lush reef with colorful coral, many species of fish, and visibility as deep at 150 feet. This area has also been deemed a protected Marine Life Conservation District and Bird Sanctuary.

Most snorkeling tours will transport you from Maui via a catamaran or zodiac boat, including a cruise along the scenic coast. If weather conditions permit, some tours will also include a visit to Turtle Town for more snorkeling. Here, you can set out to discover Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Make it a Beach Day

Perhaps your idea of vacation is just relaxing on the beach. Well, along the shores of Hawaii, you’ll find everything from white, black, and red sand beaches. Some beaches are renowned for surfing while some are great to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe. Kaanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most popular strips of coastline, stretching across 3 miles of the island’s northwest coast. Another popular beach option in this area is Kapalua Beach, which is known as one of Maui’s best beaches for snorkeling. Also in the area is Napili Bay. If you want to venture a bit further away from Lahaina, Wailea Beach is on the southwest part of the island and is known for its luxurious, upscale resorts.

Maui Highlights Tour

The Iao Valley State Park, Maui Tropical Plantation, and Maui Ocean Center are often combined to make up a “Best of Maui” tour. This tour will pass through Maui’s “Valley of the Kings” to Iao Valley State Park. Here, you can admire the unusual geological formations, lush greenery, and the Iao Needle, a 2,250 foot green-covered stone protruding from the valley floor. At the Maui Tropical Plantation, you can enjoy a tram tour through macadamia nut orchards, agricultural villages, sugar cane fields, and flower gardens.

Finally, the Maui Ocean Center offers a variety of ways to get up close and personal with the island’s unique marine life including sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish. This state of the art aquarium has one of the world’s largest collections of live Pacific corals, presentations by marine naturalists, interactive touch pools, and an acrylic tunnel beneath the Open Ocean exhibit. This tour is a good option for families.

Maui Pineapple Plantation Tour

When in Maui, be sure to discover Hawaii’s rich agriculture by visiting a pineapple plantation. Located about an hour away from Lahaina, the historic farm of Hali’imaile is the only place in the United States where you can explore a working pineapple plantation. On the plantation tour, you will explore the fields and learn how the pineapples are harvested, packed, and shipped. You will also get to sample diverse varieties of freshly-picked Maui Gold pineapples. An optional add-on to this tour is a visit to a local distillery to see how it uses Maui Gold pineapple to create award winning spirits, followed by a tasting.

Whale Watching

Each winter (December through May), Pacific humpback whales migrate from their feeding grounds in Alaska to breed in the warm waters of Hawaii. It is one of the favorite mating and birthing grounds for humpbacks. This is because of the water’s ideal temperature and the scarcity of killer whales, which are the young humpbacks’ most feared natural predators.

Most cruise lines will offer whale watching tours by both catamaran and zodiac vessels, where you can join a marine naturalist for an opportunity to experience these mammals up close and personal. As you cruise around the scenic waters off Maui, you can marvel at these creatures putting on a show. From breaching the surface or tail slapping to “singing” to attract mates. You can also witness “bubblenet” feeding, which involves working as a group to capture schools of herring. What’s not to love about a whale watching excursion?

Sunset Sail

If your cruise is spending the night in Maui, you should take advantage of the time to hop onboard a sunset catamaran sail. These 2-hour trips will set off along the western coast of Maui for plenty of Instagram-worthy scenery. You will experience breathtaking views of neighboring islands Molokai, Kaholawe, and Lanai. There is also the possibility for spinner dolphins, flying fish, and humpback whales sightings. This relaxing sail will also include hors d’oeuveres and cocktails to make the evening extra special. Just imagine your hair blowing in the wind, a glass of champagne, and an amber evening sky as you coast the majestic waters of Hawaii with that special someone.

Downtown Lahaina

If you’d prefer a less structured day in Maui, perhaps you don’t book a shore excursion at all. The town of Lahaina, once a whaling village, is now popular for boutique stores and restaurants along the vibrant Front Street. Many historical sites are also within walking distance so you could set out on your own historical walking tour.

Some popular stops include the Baldwin Home Museum which is one of the oldest buildings in Lahaina, the Old Lahaina Lighthouse, and the Pioneer Inn. There is also Banyan Tree Park which is home to the 140-year old tree that covers an entire acre of land, the Courthouse, the Fort, the Old Prison, the Wo Hing Chinese Museum, the Seaman’s Hospital, and more. If you are going to take a self-guided walk, we suggest printing out a map of the historic sites ahead of time.

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Have you visited Maui? What are your tops things to do in Maui, Hawaii on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below with your favorite experiences on this popular Hawaiian island.

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If you are visiting Hawaii on a cruise, we highly recommend that you spend a few days pre-cruise on the island of Oahu. This will give you the chance to adjust to the time difference (6 hours for us!) as well as explore all the beautiful island has to offer prior to departing on your cruise. If you are wondering how to make the most of your trip to Hawaii, we have put together this list of all the Top Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii on a Cruise.

Top Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii on a Cruise

Pearl Harbor & USS Missouri

If you are visiting Hawaii for the first time, you must step back in history for a humbling tour of Pearl Harbor. You can take a guided tour or wander the grounds on your own to experience all the property has to offer including museum exhibits, videos of firsthand accounts, and memorials. The main attractions are the Battleship Missouri Memorial (located on Ford Island), the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum and Park, and the Pacific Aviation Museum. The USS Arizona Memorial is currently closed for structural repairs; however, tours will still provide a boat ride through Battleship Row.

Polynesian Cultural Center

For a day full of Hawaiian history and culture, head to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Located about an hour away from Honolulu, this interactive experience allows you to explore 6 different island nations through cultural presentations and exhibits. There is also Polynesian food, an authentic luau, the one of kind Ha Breath of Life show, canoe rides, and so much more. The center offers various ticket packages depending on what you want to accomplish during your visit.

Attend a Luau

If you’d prefer to get straight to the hula dancing, you can attend one of the many luaus on the island of Oahu. One of the more popular options is the Paradise Cove Luau. Here, you can enjoy some pre-dinner Hawaiian activities like lei-making and spear throwing, followed by an island buffet, and the Hawaiian revue show. Other luau options include the Royal Luau at The Royal Hawaiian hotel and Germaine’s Luau which offer similar dinner and a show experiences.

Diamond Head Hike

If you are looking for a bit of a workout and some amazing views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu, take a hike up the extinct Diamond Head crater. This approximately 1 mile hike rises 560 feet over uneven and hilly terrain and includes 2 sections of steps as well as a 225 foot dimly lit tunnel. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with stunning 360 degree vistas. You can choose to take this hike on your own for a small entrance fee or book a guided tour.

Waikiki Beach

You’ve probably heard the song and are eager to walk “in the sands of the Waikiki” yourself. This popular Hawaiian beach is a lively, and busy, tourist hotspot with soft sand, waves, and beautiful views of the nearby Diamond Head. Here, you can relax on the beach (chair and umbrella rentals available), stroll the beachfront promenade, partake in some watersports, catch a sunset, or enjoy some food and drinks at one of the hotels that line this strip. A popular choice is Duke’s Waikiki and its famous hula pie.

Visit the North Shore

During your visit to Oahu, be sure to get beyond the busy Waikiki area to explore the North Shore of the island. You can explore the old surf town of Haleiwa, enjoy local cuisine from one of the many food trucks, stop at the popular Matsumoto’s Hawaiian Shave Ice store, or explore the beaches. Some popular North Shore beaches are Turtle Beach (Laniakea Beach), Banzai Pipeline to watch the surfers, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach.

Related Post: Our Review of a Grand Circle Island Tour with Roberts Hawaii

Dole Plantation

While it might be a bit touristy, a visit to the Dole Plantation is a great day trip for families. While you can access the grounds for free, the three main attractions will cost you a fee. You can take a plantation garden tour to view the 8 mini-gardens and local varietals. You could also hop aboard the Pineapple Express for a 2 mile, 20-minute narrated tour for some sightseeing and a bit of history on the Dole empire. If you are looking for something a bit more challenging, you can try to find your way out of the nearly two and a half miles of paths crafted into a giant garden maze. Don’t forget to grab a Dole Whip while there.

Kualoa Ranch

This 4,000 acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offers various tours for you to explore the unspoiled beauty of the area. The ranch’s northern half is a popular filming location for sets of Jurassic Park, Lost, and Hawaii Five-0 to name a few. The movie tour is a popular choice at the ranch, where you can see Jurassic Park’s fallen tree, Godzilla’s footprints, and more. The southern half of the ranch is known for its ATV, horseback, and zipline tours. Combo tickets for several of the attractions are also available.

Admire Iolani Palace

Iolani Palace was the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs and served as the official royal residence. It has since been registered as a National Historic Landmark and is the only official royal residence in the United States. Today, visitors can tour the palace and the grounds to admire the grandeur of its furnishings. Guided tours and self-led audio tours are available. While in the area, be sure to grab a photo of the King Kamehameha statue across from Iolani Palace.

Grand Circle Island Tour

If you have limited time on Oahu and want to make the most of your visit, we suggest a Grand Circle Island Tour. With this tour, you will get to see and/or briefly visit some of the attractions listed above and more. We found this tour that we took with Roberts Hawaii to be a great introduction to the island and a great photo-taking opportunity. Additional stops included Hanauma Bay, the Blow Hole, and Byodo-In Temple.

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Have you visited Hawaii? What are some of your Top Things to Do in Oahu, Hawaii on a cruise? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences visiting the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.

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Celebrity Solstice typically offers cruises to Australia and Alaska. Occasionally, the ship sails interim cruises between these two regions. So, when the Princess and I were looking to do something special for our 10 year anniversary, we came across a 10-night Hawaiian cruise onboard this ship. The itinerary included most of the same ports of call you find on other cruises in the region in addition to some extra sea days. 

Having sailed on Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Eclipse in the past, we were very familiar with the class of ship. We also scored an amazing deal for a guaranteed balcony room with drinks, gratuities, and WiFi that was too good to pass up. We are now back from the trip and have plenty to share in our complete Celebrity Solstice Hawaii Cruise Review. 

Related Post: Celebrity Eclipse Ireland and Iceland Cruise Review
 

Celebrity Solstice Hawaii Cruise Review

Celebrity Solstice Ship Overview

Celebrity Solstice is the first of five ships in the Solstice-class. This 16 deck ship hosts a number of features that were distinct when the ship launched in 2008. Among the firsts at sea was the Lawn Club. Located on Deck 15, this open air deck with real grass features lawn games, the Sunset Bar, and even a Hot Glass Studio.

This ship doesn’t have distracting amenities like waters slides or other flashy public venues. Instead, Celebrity Solstice is a refined and elegant ship.

Still, she has plenty of enticing offerings to enjoy during your days at sea.

These include the adults-only Solarium where you can relax during the day and the Persian Garden Thermal Suite for some added relaxation and rejuvenation. The Sky Observation Lounge on Deck 15 forward offers great views during the day, along with activities like trivia. At night, the signature drink menu was a perfect compliment to the different night life occurring in the venue.

Celebrity Cruises is known for its dining. Celebrity Solstice boasts several casual dining spots including our favorite Cafe al Bacio, a main dining room with daily 3 course meals, and 4 specialty restaurants. So, there are plenty of options for everyone. Not to mention, there are also a plethora of bars including the popular and lively Martini Bar.

Entertainment on the ship included two nightly shows, one early and one late, with a combination of theater production shows and headliner acts. Our favorite production show was Broken Strings. Other nighttime activities included live music throughout the ship. Our personal favorites were Lighthouse String Duo and a husband and wife acoustic duo Gilly and the Girl.

Celebrity Solstice Hawaii Cruise Review

Day 1 – Honolulu, Oahu

We flew in to Hawaii several days before our embarkation day in Honolulu. This gave us time to adjust to the six hour time difference, as well as explore the port of call. We highly recommend you take a few days ahead of your Hawaiian cruise to explore this island as well.

Among the highlights during our time in Oahu was our Grand Circle Tour with Roberts Hawaii. This tour featured several photo stops and visits at major island attractions like the Dole Pineapple Plantation, the North Shore, Hanauma Bay, the Byodo-in Temple, and the Kualoa Ranch. Having experienced this tour, we now have a better sense of the island for our return. We also spent a day visiting Pearl Harbor, enjoyed some relaxation on Waikiki Beach along with the famous hula pie at Duke’s, and spent an evening at the Paradise Cove luau.

On the morning of our fourth day in Honolulu, it was time to board Celebrity Solstice. We arrived at the cruise port around 11:40 am. With minimal lines, we were onboard slightly after noon. Our afternoon consisted of taking some photos and exploring the ship. It was like getting reacquainted with an old friend.

After a quick lunch, we were able to head to our room around 1 pm to unpack and settle in for this 10-day journey. With muster being scheduled for 5 pm, we had some time to grab drinks at the Martini Bar to begin our drink around the ship. We then headed up to the Lawn Club for one last look at Oahu.

Following the mandatory safety drill, it was off to dinner in the Main Dining Room. Here, we located our table for two at the back of the restaurant and met our waitstaff. Our waiter Evan and assistant waiter Grace were nice but not the most attentive servers that we have had on a cruise. Dinner tonight was rather basic, and we were able to get out in time to catch the second half of the game show True or False, held in the Entertainment Courtyard on Deck 4.

Given it was embarkation day, there was only one show this evening, a comedian named Steve Brenner. Prior to the show, we met our cruise director Lewis. He ended up being one of the best CDs we have had on a cruise. He was funny, charming, and very present throughout the ship.

As for the headliner, neither of us were a fan.

Even though we had a long day ahead of us tomorrow, we popped into Celebrity Central to see the Improv Comedy show. This was something different, and the duo of Marshall and Nancy from the Chicago Improv Association put on a great performance with plenty of help from the crowd.

Finishing up around 10:45 pm, we headed off to get some sleep for our first stop on the big island, Hilo.
 

Day 2 – Hilo, Hawaii

Our first stop of the cruise was at the eastern side of the Big Island. Here, we booked a tour through Shore Excursions Group. Our tour operator was C Big Island Tours which escorted us around the island for close to 7 hours.

Our tour guide Steve was a wealth of information and was very passionate about sharing the island with us. He was fast paced though, so if you did not keep up with him, you could miss some valuable information.  

Stops on this tour included Queen Liliuokalani Gardens, where Steve pointed out some of the unique trees of this Japanese-inspired park. We then stopped at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Farm for an hour long lunch break, followed by the Akatsuka Orchid Gardens to see award winning plants.

Most of our time today though was spent at Volcanoes National Park. Here, we made several stops to admire and learn about the crater and last year’s eruptions.

The tour concluded with a few additional stops at Rainbow Falls and Richardson’s Beach to gaze at the black sands and admire the massive turtles calling this shoreline home.  

Back onboard the ship by 5:30 pm, we both needed some coffee stat! A stop at Café al Bacio was certainly in order.

Prior to the cruise, we had made dinner reservations for 7:30 pm in the Tuscan Grille specialty restaurant. Changing up for dinner, we were down to the restaurant about 15 minutes early.

To our surprise, the restaurant was relatively quiet, with perhaps only 8 occupied tables. Dinner was delicious! We sampled a variety of items including the antipasti platter, calamari, chicken parmesan, the gnocchi, and of course limoncello cheesecake.

This feast lasted about 90 minutes, so we made it to the show by 8:45 pm. While busier than the first night, we still found some decent seats on the portside of the theater.

Tonight was the first production show entitled Rock City. It was certainly a more modern show with music from Aerosmith, Green Day, Lady Gaga, AC/DC, and other bands. This performance ended right around 9:45 pm.

Luckily, we were able to snag seats at the Passport Bar on Deck 3 following the show. This allowed us to grab our second round of drinks for our drink around the ship. It also provided ample viewing for the Silent Disco party occurring in the Grand Foyer.

Don’t think for a minute that the Princess actually danced! Instead, we just drank and people watched. That is an equally entertaining pastime. We decided to call it a night around 10:45 pm, so we could get some shut eye before our highly anticipated shore excursion tomorrow.

Day 3 – Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

On Day 3 of the cruise, we stopped on the western side of the Big Island. Here, we ventured off on our most anticipated tour of the trip. A Big Island Spectacular Helicopter tour with Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. 

While we had many memorable moments this cruise, our helicopter tour over the volcanoes was truly unforgettable.

The tour was scheduled to meet for 9:30 am at the pier. Up at 7 am, we grabbed some lattes and small bites at Café al Bacio prior to our departure.  

Our tender arrived quickly giving us about 20 minutes to take a quick stroll around the port area, which consisted of a small hotel and beach, as well as some shops.

When we originally booked the cruise, this tour was not available through the cruise line due to the volcanic activity last year. Luckily, the tour did become available a few months out from our sailing. Booking directly with the cruise line was comparable in price. Given transportation from the harbor to the airfield was needed, we decided to go with the Celebrity Cruises’ shore excursion.

Our pilot Matthew gave us a nearly two-hour tour of the island, where we could see the results of the lava activity including the 5 miles of new coastline added from the recent eruptions. It is amazing to think that over 800 acres of new island has been formed since 2018.

The tour started over the Volcanoes National Park, where we got a bird’s eye view of the Kilauea volcano. We were able to completely circle the Puʻu ʻŌʻō vent, which up until last year had been erupting continuously for 35 years.

Following all the volcano excitement, we continued our tour to explore the rest of the island’s beauty. We witnessed cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and other dramatic coastline vistas. The tour was well executed, and we would certainly consider another trip with the company in the future.

With our tour completed, we were escorted back to the pier and grabbed a tender back to the ship around 3 pm.

Back onboard, you guessed it, we headed to Café al Bacio for some caffeine. We relaxed a bit before changing up for dinner and were down to the MDR for a bit after 6 pm.

Dinner again was not spectacular. The slow braised lamb had a stew meat consistency. The theme of this cruise was that nothing in the MDR really wowed us, which is very atypical for a Celebrity cruise.

Before the show, the Princess was able to twist my arm to get another drink at the Martini Bar. Like I was going to oppose.

Tonight’s performer was Kristen Hertzenberg. She was the lead performer in the Las Vegas run of Phantom of the Opera. While she did have a great voice, her stage presence was lacking, and the show was a rather typical headliner cruise show.

Done by 9:45 pm, we made a b-line to the elevators to get up to Deck 14 to the Sky Observation Lounge for the Live at Sky show. 

This themed party is essentially the same show that we saw on Solstice 5 years ago. Still, the show gave us an excuse to get two signature drinks from the bar to cross another venue off our drink around the ship.

Another long day of touring was scheduled for Day 4, so we called it a night when the show wrapped up around 11 pm.
 

Day 4 – Lahaina, Maui

We had an overnight stay in Maui. Of course, this meant two full days of sightseeing! Due to timing constraints, we booked both of these tours through Celebrity Cruises.

For our first day in Lahaina, we booked the Adventure to Hana tour. With our scheduled meeting for 7:30 am in the theater, we decided to order room service, and I took some photos and videos around the ship in the meantime.

Ashore by 8:15 am, we were loaded on a mini-bus and headed off. Thus, our 10 hour journey began.

The official stats for this coastal drive along routes 36 and 360 records a total length of 64 miles from the town of Kahului to Hana. Given where we were docked in Lahaina, this added an additional 20+ miles to our journey.

While many had recommended the Road to Hana as a must do attraction in Maui, our Adventure to Hana excursion was perhaps our least favorite tour. Yes, the drive was scenic and the imagery was beautiful, but the tour itself was poorly executed.

Several of the stated tour stops were not completed, and the description was misleading. We had virtually no time to enjoy the black sand beach or to explore the lava tubes at Wai’anapanapa State Park.

The tour also included a lunch, which was an inedible boxed lunch consisting of a turkey wrap. If we had known this ahead of time, we would have grabbed food during one of the other stops along the way.

Our driver and tour guide Kami was nice and did her best to provide narration as she navigated the mini-bus around the twists and turns. However, there should have been more information and backdrop provided, like explaining the day’s events, the timing of stops, and the overall trip before heading off.

Returning to the port at 7 pm, we were exhausted from the long day of travel and were definitely glad that we did not decide to make the drive ourselves.

Originally, our plans were to eat dinner in Maui this evening, but given that we were both tired, we decided to head back to the ship. Our tender ride back included an amazing view of the sunset! With dinner up in the air now, we considered switching our second specialty restaurant reservation to this evening.

Luckily, Silk Harvest was empty, so the restaurant manager was happy to swap our reservation to this evening. We are not sure why the restaurant was so empty, as the food was delicious.

During our 90 minute meal, we sampled a variety of small and large plates. Among our favorites were the tempura shrimp, orange chicken, chicken satays, and the pad thai noodles.

Finishing a bit past 9 pm, we headed straight to the theater for tonight’s performance by a local cultural group. Arriving to the show late, we were still able to get seats, though closer to the stage than normal. We really enjoyed the Children of Hawaii’s performance of Pacific Island dance and music. In fact, we both thought it was better than the luau performance we saw one evening in Honolulu.

Finishing up right around 10 pm, we both knew it was bedtime without any discussion.

Of course, our last day ashore was jam-packed with another tour. This meant another early alarm.

Day 5 – Lahaina, Maui

If you know us, you know we make the most of every moment of our trip. For our last day in Maui, we booked a tour to the Haleakala crater. Though, the Princess could not convince me to get up for the early sunrise trip.

Having a poorly prepared room service breakfast the day before, the Princess was adamant about getting something to eat at the Oceanview Café this morning.

Luckily, the restaurant was not busy, so we were in and out of the venue in about 15 minutes. Back to our room to grab our gear and bags, we were down to the theater for our 7:30 am meeting time. We only waited for a few minutes before our group’s number was called. Escorted to the tenders, which turned out to be another rough ride to shore, we were back on land a mere twelve hours from our last tour!

Luckily, this tour was more organized and occurred as advertised.

The 8,000 foot climb to the Haleakala Crater was exhilarating. This massive volcano accounts for close to 75% of the total land area of Maui. It is the oldest dormant volcano, which last erupted in 1790.

Unlike the other volcanoes on the big island, travelers are able to climb to the summit. Our tour bus took us to the lookout point where we stood right at the edge of the massive 2 mile wide by seven mile long crater.

During our trip, it was extremely windy, with gusts up to 40 MPH, and much colder than we expected. Let’s just say neither of us ended up with a good hair day.

The two stops in the national park provided just enough time. We totally forgot the tour also included a lunch stop in the town of Makawao. The restaurant was an Italian eatery, which just felt wrong for a tour in Hawaii.

After this 90 minute stop, we made the return trek to the harbor. With only an hour until our all aboard time, and a tender line with guests snaking out into the street, we were not able to do any souvenir shopping. Oh well, I guess we need to return to Maui again soon.

The rather long line did move quickly, and we were back onboard the ship by 4 pm. Good thing we had two full hours before dinner, as tonight was the first Evening Chic night. This is Celebrity Cruises equivalent of Formal Night.

Grabbing coffees and a few snacks, we both changed up for dinner and were in our finest attire by 5:45 pm. This gave us a little time to take photos at three of the portrait stations.

Dinner was an odd combination of the regular formal night entrees tonight. This time around, I went with the lamb chops and duck. Both were fine but not fabulous. By now, our sommelier and bar server had our usual drink orders down.

As with the previous evenings in the dining room, dinner did not end until close to 8 pm. Tonight’s performance was the second production show, Intimate Broadway Cabaret. It was not a show either of us remembered from our previous Celebrity Cruises. 

This show was much shorter than the typical theater entertainment and only included some of the singers. Finishing up before 9:30 pm, we stayed in our seats for the next performance, the Marriage Games.

This was the ship’s take on the popular Love and Marriage game show. While Lewis was an overall great cruise director, his rendition of this show seemed non-personal and rushed. Still, it was entertaining to watch.

Finishing up around 11 pm and no need to wake up early tomorrow, we found seats at the Martini Bar for a round of Xpress Martinis. This has to be the best drink on the entire ship!

Day 6 – At Sea

We were hoping for at least one good sea day filled with sun and warmth leaving Hawaii. Unfortunately, we were disappointed when we woke up to overcast skies and 60 degree temperatures. The Captain’s announcement at 10 am solidified that we would not be getting sun or warmth for the next few days.

Getting ready for the day, we took our devices and lattes to Deck 12 and found some outdoor chairs to at least enjoy the fresh air.

The internet was starting to fade on us, so getting work done was more difficult than expected. Even though it wasn’t a typical pool day, we still grabbed a drink at the Pool Bar while outside.

Following the passenger vs. crew bean bag toss, we headed to the Oceanview Café to get some food around 12:30 pm. Given the weather outside, the venue was much busier than it had been during our other visits. Unfortunately, the food quality this cruise did not impress us.

Given that we now had 5 sea days in a row, the activities staff had a number of additional talks and matinee shows scheduled to keep us busy. Today’s 2 pm show featured the acoustic husband and wife duo, Gilly and the Girl.

The 45 minute performance was really good. We were starting to think the ship’s performers were just as talented as the production cast and headliner acts.

With the weather not cooperating, it was only a matter of time until the Princess lost some money at the casino. Over the next couple of days, she would battle up and down but ended the cruise at a loss.

We downed the casino losses with a few rounds of martinis on deck 4. Making some friends at the bar, we got back to our room a bit past 5 to change up for dinner.  

For once, we arrived at the main dining room on time! Tonight’s meal fared a bit better. It featured the wife’s favorite, the turkey dinner. I ordered the beef stroganoff, which was not too creamy or heavy. 

Our routine over this cruise became a stop to watch the game show in the Entertainment Courtyard before heading to the main theater for the 9 pm show.

The performer tonight was Sean O’Shea. Let’s just say, it was a combination of your stereotypical bad cruise ship entertainment.

Following the show, we headed to the Grand Foyer for the Hawaiian party. Did I forget to mention we were decked out in some fabulous Hawaiian garb? We were not alone either. Essentially, the only thing Hawaiian about the party were the clothes, as the live band played mostly pop music. Getting some martinis (Do you notice a trend here?), we stayed until 11 pm and then called it a night.

Day 7 – At Sea

The next several days would wind up occurring in a relatively predictable pattern. We were up around 7 am, and I worked on my computer while the Princess got ready.

We ventured to the Oceanview Café for breakfast, then found covered chairs on Deck 12 to do work until about noon.

Having enough of the chilly conditions outside, the Princess convinced me to get lunch in the main dining room today. After all, we really didn’t eat much at breakfast.

With a decent line forming at the main dining room on Deck 4, it took about 15 minutes to get a table for two.

Lunch was an improvement over the buffet. The skewers and barbecue chicken were much better options than what I sampled on previous afternoons.

Finishing lunch, we grabbed some coffees and headed to the theater for the 2 pm matinee. This was an original show directed and choreographed by the ship’s performers.

Aptly named the Variety Spectacular, it was a great show. It featured the aerial performers. With a mix of singing and acrobatics, it was perhaps one of the best performances of the trip.

Finishing the show after 3 pm, we braved the elements to head to the Sunset Bar for our drink around the ship. The sun was out, but the windy and cool temperatures meant it was a ghost town. The bar was still open, so we managed to get two glasses of sangria.

Dinner was uneventful, and tonight’s menu included a lamb kebab and the chicken roulade. Again, the close to two hour dinner experience had us out in time to catch most of this evening’s game show. This time around, it was passengers vs. senior officers in Family Feud. Thankfully, the passengers prevailed.

In the main theater, tonight’s headliner was Linda Gentille, a piano prodigy.

She was quirky, fast-paced, and very talented, though not exactly what we were anticipating of a headliner. Her big number was performing 10 “randomly” selected songs provided by the audience.

Her show ended at 9:45 pm. Unlike the other nights, it didn’t feel like much was going on this evening. So, we grabbed one last round at the Martini Bar and were back in the room by 10:30 pm.

Day 8 – At Sea

Day 8 was pretty much a repeat of the two previous days.

Up at 6:30 am, I had some conference calls and work to complete. In between working, we grabbed breakfast at the buffet, and found seats at the iLounge. As the need would arise, I would head to the open air decks to use my devices as this was probably the worst internet connectivity that we have experienced on a cruise ship in a while.

With no matinee show this afternoon, there was not too much on the agenda. Grabbing some coffee, this time with a little extra kick, we did some further working and relaxing.

The Princess did convince me to go to the casino for a little bit. This time around, she had an upswing and won back some of her losses.

Without much else to do, we grabbed a drink from the Passport Bar around 3 pm. Really, the Princess was waiting for the Martini Bar to open at 4 pm.

Grabbing one round, and conversing with some other patrons, we headed back to the room around 5 pm. Changing up for dinner, we were on time yet again.

By now, we had become very talkative with most of the couples near us. The pair to one side of us were avid Celebrity cruisers, having been on 30 cruises. The couple to our other side had cruised several times before as well, but mostly with Carnival. So, dinner became a conversation about the day and our likes (and dislikes) of the trip.

For me, the meals tonight were an improvement over some of the previous evenings. Still, it was a little too late to completely win us over.

With not much time before the show, we checked another venue off our drink around the ship. This time, we stopped at the World Class Bar. 

This venue offers some of the most unique drinks on the ship. Sipping our rather strong drinks slowly, we moseyed over to the show around 8:30 pm.

Tonight was another production show called Broken Strings. While it had a relatively loose plot, we enjoyed the music, choreography, and set design. Of all the night time production shows, this one ended up being our favorite.

Following the show, we didn’t have to move as this double feature included the Liar’s Club. Good thing we had become friendly with one of the bar servers, as she was happy to get us a second round of drinks. The force was strong with this one!

The Liar’s Club is a game show where you have a term for which all three contestants give a definition, then it’s up to the audience to decide who is telling the truth.

This version did not disappoint as it included Captain Tasos, Lewis the Cruise Director, and the Staff Captain. It was hysterical and made for a great way to end the evening.

The show was a solid hour, with the tall tales told by the staff, so we didn’t leave the theater until close to 11:30 pm.

We decided to call it a night, as I had an even earlier conference call in the morning.

Day 9 – At Sea

Due to the time zone changes, I had to be up at 5:30 am to be part of some meetings for my full time job. This was fine, except for the poor reception and internet connectivity. Working on a cruise ship only works when the technology is functioning during the trip.

Getting my meetings and work completed before 7 am, I returned to the room and fell back asleep until 8:30 am.

We were lucky to score a table at Café al Bacio around 10 am. We would sit here and enjoy some pastries and coffee as I worked with the on again, off again internet.

Around 12:30 pm, we headed to the main dining room for lunch. The menu was quite interesting today with a veal chop and fried chicken. Why not sample both?

The 2 pm matinee today was another one of the ship’s performers, Lighthouse String Duo. They were very talented, and we could certainly see them headlining cruises in the future.

Finishing up right before 3 pm, we walked around the ship a bit getting some menu photos and videos.

Tonight was the second Evening Chic, so the Princess wanted adequate time to get ready. Granted, we didn’t really do much during the day that warranted an extensive amount of preparation.

Down to Deck 5 around 5:45 pm, we did 3 different photo stations before dinner. The amount of people dressed up was slightly more than the first Evening Chic night.

Of course, as tonight was Lobster night!

Getting to the main dining room around 6:15 pm, we were the last couple among our row of tables for two. I did an odd “surf and turf” combo with two lobster tails and the beef Wellington. The entrees were satisfying, but the true winner was the Baked Alaska dessert.

We were out of dinner close to 8 pm again, but this still gave us time to get to the Entertainment Court for a photo with the Captain at the Officer’s Reception. One thing we really enjoyed on this trip was the visibility of the senior officers, including the Captain. He was funny, personable, and a great spokesperson for Celebrity Cruises.

Getting to the theater for 8:30 pm, we grabbed a round of drinks to await showtime.

Tonight was the final headliner, Andrew Diessner. This academically trained tenor came out rocking to a Black Crowes song. This had me intrigued and hopeful for the performance. Quickly though, the show devolved into a mix of opera and stale cruise songs.

Following the show, we, along with what felt like the entire theater, headed to the Martini Bar for the Fire and Ice Party.

This raucous crowd was greeted with DJ music, augmented by live performances by the Lighthouse String Duo. The talented bartenders were also mixing it up with some unique cocktails. This was probably the liveliest scene we had experienced all cruise.

With no specific reason to wake up early, it was an easy decision to close out the bar on this second to last night of our cruise.

The party ended around midnight, so we slowly retreated to our room after that.

Day 10 – At Sea

The last day of the cruise is always an opportunity to tie up loose ends. It also helped that the sun was shining for a change! The temperature was still not very warm, but the sunny skies meant that we would get some decent outdoor time today.

Up at 9:30 am, I made the rounds grabbing some last minute photos and video for the blog. The past couple of days had not been favorable for getting these images.

Essentially, we roamed the ship for about two hours until it was lunch time. Debating whether to do the buffet or sit down lunch, we opted for the former.

Good thing we did, as the buffet was stocked with so much food. The carving station had pork, duck, lamb, turkey, and beef. It felt like they were just cooking everything they had left for the cruise. There was even a massive chocolate fountain!

Where was all this stuff the previous 9 days?

Leaving lunch, we found some lounge chairs in the sun on Deck 12. While it was not warm enough for us to “tan” or go in the pools, just sitting outside was a nice departure. There were some brave souls in bathing suits though.

Staying outside for close to two hours, we headed back to our room. Yes, we had to spend some time packing before dinner. We know, the worst part of a cruise.

Dinner tonight was full of good-byes. Surprisingly, one couple did not show up. I guess they had enough of us.

Heading to the Entertainment Court, we caught the last few rounds of the Yes or No Game show. It is one of our favorites. It’s always fun to see if fellow cruisers can resist the urge to say the taboo words for three minutes.

Only one passenger was able to walk away victoriously.

Tonight’s show in the theater was Euhporia. It was an odd mix of performance art and singing that we had actually already seen on Celebrity Eclipse last year.

When compared to our trip on Solstice in 2014, the entertainment certainly has improved. The caliber of the performers was stronger, and the shows themselves were more modern.

As you would suspect, we ended our cruise in the Martini Bar. We grabbed a few rounds of drinks while watching the silent disco.

We also met up with some other travel bloggers who were on the ship. It was great talking shop, and travel, with other like minded people.

Getting close to midnight, it was officially time to call it a night. Our cruise was over!

The disembarkation process the next morning was a bit delayed and chaotic. One of the first busy days in the Port of Vancouver meant thousands of cruisers were being dumped onto the city. We managed to get off the ship and walk to our hotel with more work than we would have liked.

The rest of the day was spent touring the city as this was our first visit to Vancouver.

A long 10 days had come and gone, but both of us are eager to return to Hawaii and the charming Vancouver, British Columbia. So, a trip back out to the West is certainly on the list.
 

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