Hawaii Cruise Review
Hawaii by Cruise
by Theresa Gruben
The magic of Hawaii no one can resist! It is a special place that cannot not compare to any other islands. Known for it's green valley's of bliss and pure relaxation, the islands of Hawaii are created for those who wish to unwind and replenish from it's well of refreshing.
Here are some abbreviated ideas to do on your own or as tour options for cruising Hawaii.
Oahu – Take a drive up to the North Shore. There is great surf to see! If you travel up the windward side (east), this route offers the best of Oahu views on this island. A stop along the way to hike up Diamond Head offers a great sight of Waikiki. Continue to Polynesian Cultural Center for an afternoon – there is a lot to do there. Stay for the evening luau and show – it is spectacular! Also, we can't forget Pearl Harbor as it is definitely a "must see" stop. Only after the narrative tour you will visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Don't skip the narrative. This is a perfect stop for those taking a cruise because it is within a short distance from the pier.
Kauai – If you want to replish in pure beauty, this is my favorite natural island for that reason. if you want to really see the most spectacular views of the Napali Coastline and the many waterfalls with lush green countryside then a helicopter tour here is incredible and a must! This island represents true Hawaii! The majority of the island you can only see from the air, so a must do. (Suggestion for a helicopter company is Jack Harter). Waimea Canyon is incredible to see and known as the mini Grand Canyon and a great drive as well. Princeville to the East is the lush side and worth a drive. If cruising DO NOT miss the sail by of Napali Coast line once you reboard the ship (port side of the ship). It is the most breathtaking sight you will ever see and at no additional charge!
Maui – Famously the “road to Hana” is an incredible drive and a full day of adventure. The mostly slow windy roads will lead you to a really beautiful part of the island with waterfalls and lush scenic stops. Iao Valley, the West Maui Mountains, the top of Haleakala are also highlights you will not want to miss. In the early evening a stroll through around Front Street in Lahaina for restaurants and fancy galleries is a fun. Old Lahaina Luau (.com) is one of the better traditional luau’s and located off of Front Street . I suggest to purchase this Luau in advance over the internet.
Hilo – the Volcano State Park of course as well as Mauno Kea Summitt and a helicopter tour would be the highlights on this side of the island.
Tips: Hawaii Standard Time is in effect year-round. There is no daylight savings time. Hawaii is 2 hours behind Pacific Standard Time and 5 hours behind Eastern Standard Time. When daylight savings time is in effect on the mainland, Hawaii is 3 hours behind the West Coast and 6 hours behind the East Coast.
Rental cars throughout Hawaii is relatively cheap (actually cheaper than Florida and much cheaper than Europe or the Caribbean too). For each port stop you can easily rent a car if you want to explore a day or two on your own. The port location has a shuttle that takes you to the rental car location close by. I highly recommend reserving prior to your cruise and also sign up for their memberships in advance as well to avoid any long lines at the counter.
For our 5th time to Hawaii it is still a spectacular adventure with many things to do and places yearning to revisit. As always, I will love to share more if you need additional information.
Review by Theresa Gruben
(more special sailing reviews coming...)
