about Hawaiian Island cruise
The Norwegian Cruise Liner – Pride of America, offers a premium holiday cruise around the Hawaiian Islands. This cruise commences and concludes in Honolulu, providing a remarkable fusion of experiences as you journey through the captivating Hawaiian Islands. Embark on an extraordinary voyage, discovering the allure of pristine white sandy beaches, breathtaking vistas, and delectable cuisine. With stops at the four major islands of Maui, Hawaii (also referred to as “The Big Island”), Kauai, and Oahu, the magnificent Pride of America cruise ship beckons exploration and indulgence. Having undergone a recent refurbishment in 2016, this vibrant cruise liner presents guests with an array of amenities, including a dining selection of over 15 restaurants and captivating nightly entertainment. A quintessential fusion of paradise and a luxurious maritime excursion, this extraordinary voyage promises an indelible experience that will transcend time.
Where the cruise begins
I have had the opportunity to visit Hawaii on previous occasions during my extensive travels. However, I have yet to experience the pleasure of embarking on a cruise around the enchanting Hawaiian islands. These islands are renowned for their exquisite beauty, making them some of the most captivating destinations on Earth. Each island possesses a unique allure, with its own splendid blend of golden beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled natural wonders. I must admit, this itinerary presents an optimum opportunity to explore four picturesque Hawaiian Islands over the course of eight days.
I must confess that the thought of navigating airports, undergoing the various security procedures, transitioning between flights, checking in and out of numerous hotels, and constantly packing and unpacking my luggage at each destination appears to be a daunting prospect. The logistics involved in such an endeavor could easily transform what should be a blissful vacation into a challenging and overwhelming experience. Cruising eliminates the need for additional domestic flights and offering the convenience of unpacking just once.
Embarking
I joined the Pride of America in the Hawaiian Islands capital, Honolulu (Oahu), where my journey commenced. Departing from the bustling cityscape and pristine beaches of Honolulu, I embarked on a remarkable cruise experience. Upon swift customs clearance, I stepped into the grand cruise liner and immediately immersed myself in the vibrant tapestry of Hawaii’s rich culture and captivating allure. Embracing the warm “Aloha Spirit,” symbolized by the traditional flower lei bestowed upon arrival, my enchantment with the Pacific islands began. I immersed myself in the embrace of Hawaii’s gracious hospitality, and allow the journey to unfold with utmost delight and fascination. This truly marked the commencement of an enchanting voyage.
My Deluxe Penthouse Suite
This oceanic sanctuary offers exceptional accommodations suitable for families, couples and solo travellers, featuring spacious suites and private balconies that enhance the overall experience.
I had the privilege of acquiring a room with an ensuite and a spacious private balcony. The Deluxe Penthouse Suite that I was assigned exceeded my expectations, boasting floor-to-ceiling glass doors that lead to a private balcony. It proved to be the ideal choice for me as it featured a generously-sized bed and a notably spacious bathroom, lounge area and private balcony where I spent most of my early mornings and late night looking up the stars.
Sailing Away
Departing from Honolulu in the early afternoon, I head straight to the top deck to have the opportunity to admire the splendid vistas of Honolulu as the cruise ship gradually departs from the shores, venturing into the expansive ocean. Finding solace on the upper deck, I savor the breathtaking views of the coastline, providing an idyllic backdrop. The anticipation of exploring various Hawaiian islands, immersing myself in the verdant rainforests, beholding magnificent waterfalls, and marveling at the towering cliffs of the Napali Coast, along with the exhilarating experience of flying over the active Kilauea Volcano, fills me with a profound sense of tranquility. I am confident that this cruise will offer an unforgettable adventure.
Onboard Experience
Life on the sea without seeing land is quite an unfamiliar sensation to go through consecutive days without encountering a new location. Nevertheless, I find solace in identifying the Pride of America as a fresh territory, thereby considering the ship itself as the ultimate destination.
Living on a ship is like a whole different world compared to life on land. It’s easy to get caught up in the ship’s bubble and lose track of time and dates. But hey, there’s a nifty reminder in every elevator that magically updates itself. Talk about convenience!
Atrium and Staircase
Hey there! Welcome aboard this amazing cruise ship! I am ready to have an absolute blast from start to finish. The Capitol Atrium, with its super impressive Tiffany-style glass dome and grand staircase, it totally blown my mind. I am in for a treat, my friends!
Social Cruise
Whilst on board, my primary objective is to acquaint myself with the ship’s layout. Additionally, I engage in leisurely strolls throughout various areas of the cruise vessel to further enhance my experience. In order to maximize the enjoyment during the cruise, I actively engage in social interactions with fellow passengers and partake in a multitude of pleasurable activities. This affords me the opportunity to explore a plethora of enthralling experiences and forge connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for cruising. Moreover, I avail myself of the detailed cruise program, delivered to staterooms and available on the onboard television, which allows me to select from a wide array of engaging activities. For more solitary pursuits, I may try my luck at the onboard casino, indulge in retail therapy, enjoy cinematic delights, soak up the sun by the poolside, visit the fitness center, and partake in several other amenities available on board. It is worth noting that cruises also go above and beyond in terms of entertainment, offering live shows, clubs, bars, and numerous other options for guests to enjoy.
Wine & Dine
While embarking on a luxurious voyage, guests are greeted with a diverse range of dining options, encompassing 16 enticing choices, as well as 12 well-appointed bars and lounges. Cruises offer a delightful experience centered around gastronomy and beverage consumption. In addition to partaking in various onboard attractions and activities at no extra cost, one can indulge in the pleasure of dining at à la carte and specialty restaurants, which personally constituted the highlight of my evenings. Rather than opting for buffet-style dining, I thoroughly enjoyed the elevated experience of these establishments.
On a ship, one appreciates the convenience of not having to venture outside in search of sustenance throughout the day, a task that often arises during land travel. Instead, I find solace in the fact that a visit to the establishment known as Windjammers will promptly offer a diverse buffet selection whenever hunger strikes.
Pool-side Leisure
The wealth of onboard activities ensures there is something for every guest to enjoy. These activities and amenities are carefully curated to provide an all-inclusive experience. I simply unwind by the poolside, relishing the boundless expanse of the ocean.
Learning New Skills
Living on a cruise ship is never boring, trust me! There’s never a dull moment and always something happening to keep you entertained. And let me tell you, my cabin always had a surprise waiting for me when I got back. I was so curious to figure out how they did it that I joined one of their workshops to learn the art of folding. It was pretty cool, I gotta say!
My Offshore Experience
While embarking on a cruise, passengers are presented with a plethora of offshore attractions and tour options at each island destination. Cruise liners, being well-acquainted with the noteworthy attractions of each island, offer a diverse range of official excursions for passengers to explore and indulge in. To enhance the overall experience at each port of call, it is advisable to consider both official guided tours as well as independent explorations. This approach offers the benefits of potential cost savings while allowing visitors to proceed at their own pace.
Maui Island
Kahului
Kahului, located on the island of Maui, serves as the largest town and primary commercial hub of this Hawaiian island. During the initial day of my stay in the Valley Isle, I had the opportunity to meet with dedicated conservation naturalists at the Maui Ocean Centre. This renowned establishment boasts the world’s largest collection of live Pacific corals, along with Hawaiian green sea turtles, sharks, and a diverse array of vibrant tropical fish. As the sun descended on the horizon, I embarked on a leisurely stroll towards the nearby Whalers Village, followed by a delightful exploration of the historic Lahaina town, where I dined at one of the esteemed local restaurants. Subsequently, another day greeted me with the freedom to indulge in the pleasures of paradise at my own pace. Commencing my morning early, I embarked on a scenic self-drive along the captivating “Road to Hana.”
Road to Hana
Driving along this route presented a combination of captivating and daunting elements. The road is renowned for its sinuous curves, narrow passages, lush tropical rainforest, awe-inspiring cliffs, cascading waterfalls, volcanic rock formations, and rugged northern coastline. While I appreciated the unparalleled vistas, the constant awareness and apprehension were ever-present during the journey. Maneuvering through sharp bends, narrow roads, and precarious cliffs elicited unease, fear, and trepidation. This drive is not advisable for individuals susceptible to motion sickness or those with back issues. Its incredibly windy nature, coupled with segments of unpaved roads, renders it perilous during the wet season.
Hawaii (the Big Island)
Hilo
Hilo, located on the island of Hawaii, is the largest settlement and census-designated place within Hawaii County. Positioned upon Hilo Bay, it boasts a panoramic view, nestled at the foot of two shield volcanoes: Mauna Loa, an active volcano, and Mauna Kea, a dormant one. While Hilo experiences some vulnerability to potential lava flows from Mauna Loa, it is important to note that tourism is less conspicuous in comparison to other areas. Nevertheless, Hilo showcases a remarkable array of natural wonders and attractions, showcasing some of the world’s most breathtaking beauty.
Embarking on a comprehensive offshore excursion encompassing an entire day was a prudent decision, as it ensured both my personal safety with adequate insurance coverage and the guarantee that the cruise ship would remain anchored in the event of any tour-related delays. Our knowledgeable guide, a long-standing resident of the island, boasted an impressive two decades of experience conducting private tours. With an individual possessing such an extensive background in tourism, my expectations were unwaveringly met as I witnessed and participated in a truly immersive and tailor-made exploration of the locale.
Gardens & Waterfalls
On our inaugural excursion, we embarked upon a brief journey, taking us a mere 10-15 minute drive away, towards a place of botanical marvels and cascading water. With great anticipation, we arrived at the entrance of the illustrious botanical garden, where we were greeted by a captivating spectacle: the awe-inspiring Rainbow Falls, and a dazzling array of indigenous flora. As an ardent cultivator myself, I found this sanctuary to be a veritable haven, yearning to dedicate a substantial portion of my time to explore its immaculate landscapes and unrivaled botanical treasures.
Kilauea: Volcano Tour
Continuing our excursion, we encountered the formidable Kilauea volcano. We ascended the winding road towards the summit of the mountain, where we were greeted by an awe-inspiring panorama. From this vantage point, we beheld both the breathtaking splendor of the surrounding landscape and the extensive devastation caused by the volcano’s eruptions throughout the years. The enduring activity of this volcano serves as a reminder of the relentless power of nature, oftentimes harsh and unforgiving. Observing the massive expanse of land transformed by scorching lava and ash, it becomes apparent how this cataclysmic force has irreversibly disrupted the delicate balance of biodiversity and the intricate web of ecosystems.
Macadamia Factory
Our ultimate tour concluded with a visit to the Macadamia factory. Hawaii is widely acknowledged for being one of the world’s prominent producers of Macadamia nuts. You will have the opportunity to embark on an enlightening journey, witnessing the meticulous care bestowed upon the plants from their initial nurturing in the nursery to their eventual consumption by individuals. The procedures undertaken behind the scenes entail a significant amount of manual labor, often unbeknownst to us, highlighting the sheer dedication and effort invested in this process.
Hawaii (the Big Island)
Kona
During our time on the Big Island, we embarked on an overnight cruise from Hilo to Kona. Kona is a district located on the Big Island of Hawaii, known for its prestigious Ironman World Champion Triathlon and an active volcano that continues to emit lava. Kona provides the quintessential Hawaiian experience, where sunny and warm weather, as well as pristine azure waters, allure visitors to engage in an array of seaside activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and kayaking. During my stay there, I opted to embark on a helicopter flight to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the active volcano. The evident aftermath of volcanic eruptions was apparent, with molten lava traversing vast expanses of land, causing widespread destruction to once flourishing ecosystems, towns, and villages.
Kona: Volcano Flight
It was time to embark on a helicopter flight in order to behold an aerial perspective of the crater of the volcano and the extensive devastation it had wrought. Departing from the heliport nestled within the heart of desolate terrain, characterized by dark igneous rocks formed from the volcano’s eruptions spanning years past. The panoramic view afforded me the opportunity to navigate above treacherous terrain surrounding the volcano. Gazing upon the volcano’s crater and the expanse of molten rock stretching across vast distances proved simultaneously awe-inspiring and unsettling. Fortunately, the conditions were ideal, with calm skies and optimal visibility. Opting for this aerial excursion emerged as the paramount means to witness the volcano’s most captivating vista, which allow me to witness the magnificene of the active volcano in Kona from a bird’s-eye view, an experience destined to etch itself indelibly into my memory.
Kauai Island
Nawiliwili
Nawiliwili, situated on the island of Kauai, marks the final destination of our idyllic Hawaiian cruise. This charming town takes its name from the native Wiliwilli trees and boasts a harbor that exudes picturesque beauty. It serves as the gateway to Kauai, an island rightfully renowned for its unparalleled natural splendor. Often referred to as the Garden Island, Kauai lives up to its name with its awe-inspiring landscapes, from the majestic mountains of Kokee to the refreshing rainforests of Haena. During my visit, I had the privilege of embarking on a helicopter tour that provided a bird’s-eye view of the renowned Na Pali coastline, with its breathtaking and awe-inspiring cliffs and rugged terrain.
Na Pali Coastline and Waterfall Flight
Embarking on a scenic flight and indulging in sightseeing the prominent facets of Kauai within a two-hour helicopter excursion granted me the opportunity to explore the most remote, exquisite, and awe-inspiring areas of the island. Equipped with headphones for seamless communication, I was able to engage with the pilot directly and seek clarification, thereby enhancing the overall experience. Opting for this narrated flight, guided by the pilot, bestowed upon me a unique chance to marvel at the breathtaking scenery beneath while relishing the entirety of the airborne journey.
Undoubtedly, this has been an unparalleled experience, surpassing all others. It stands as the epitome of efficiency and offers an indelible memory, providing an unparalleled vantage point to witness nature’s glory at its finest. The flight seamlessly traversed through both treacherous and captivating landscapes, showcasing long cascading waterfalls, the majestic canyons, cliffs, the unparalleled Na Pali coastline, stunning terrains, and abundant tropical vegetation. In every direction, captivating panoramas stretched as far as the eye could behold. Truly, there exists a magnitude of natural wonders that can only be fully admired from an aerial perspective.
Where the cruise ends
Honolulu, Oahu
As I reflected upon the conclusion of the voyage, it became evident that the time had come to bid a heartfelt farewell, until our paths cross once more. The return journey to Honolulu, Oahu the esteemed capital of Hawaii, commenced in the early morning hours at 7am. As I basked in the picturesque panoramas of the inviting deep blue waters, I contemplated how this seven-day cruise not only bestowed upon me an extraordinary experience, but also granted me a remarkable opportunity to behold the wonders of Hawaii’s Paradise. From the awe-inspiring cascading waterfalls and the enigmatic allure of active volcanoes, to the allure of golden sandy beaches and the rich tapestry of historical and cultural sites, this island escapade intertwined with carefree cruising left an indelible imprint upon my being. Each island possessed its own unique qualities and bore witness to a splendid fusion of modernity and traditional Hawaiian heritage, resulting in an enchanting charm that will undoubtedly remain ingrained in my memories.
My Cruise Experiene Overview
As the shores of Waikiki meet the mighty waves of the Pacific, basking in the warm sunlight, I immerse myself in the poignant historical backdrop of Honolulu, before embarking on a memorable seven-night cruise around the picturesque Hawaiian Islands. Aboard the Pride of America by Norwegian Cruise Line, I was whisked away to vibrant jungles, stunning black sand beaches, awe-inspiring canyons, majestic volcanoes, as well as quaint coffee plantations and charming towns. From the lush isles of Oahu, Maui, and Kauai, to the captivating Big Island of Hawaii, the Pride of America offered an array of captivating excursions, both included and optional, allowing travelers, like myself to truly experience the breathtaking waters and mesmerizing sights of the 50th state. Witnessing the magnificence of the sunrise over the colossal Haleakala Crater, soaring above tropical rainforests and bubbling lava on a thrilling helicopter ride, and simply unwinding on deck with a glass of sparkling champagne, while navigating through the enchanting Hawaiian islands was an incredible experience that only many people could dream of. This remarkable destination has satiate my longing for a paradise getaway.