The Best Cruise Ship for Hawaii
What to look for in a ship, depending on the itinerary you choose.
Compare Hawaiian Cruise QuotesWhat Makes the Best Cruise Ship for Hawaii
The best cruise ship for Hawaii is the one that fits the itinerary you choose. On the island-hopping week, the ship is mostly a comfortable hotel; on a two-week crossing, it is where you spend half the trip. Judge ships with that in mind.
Features That Matter in Hawaii
| Feature | Why it matters | Most important on |
|---|---|---|
| Balcony cabins | Coastline sail-bys, whale spotting in winter, fresh air on sea days | Crossings and Na Pali sail-bys |
| Indoor and covered spaces | Comfort on breezy or wet sea days in the open Pacific | Crossings, especially in winter |
| Enrichment and classes | Lectures and workshops fill sea days | Mainland and luxury voyages |
| Kids and teen programs | Keep children busy on board | Family trips of any length |
| Ship size and tendering | Fewer people per tender at Kona | Any itinerary that calls at Kona |
| Stabilizers and cabin location | A low, midship cabin feels the least motion | Pacific crossings |
Picking a Cabin
On a crossing, cabin choice matters more than usual, because you will spend several days at sea. A midship cabin on a lower deck feels the least motion; a balcony gives you private outdoor space. Our sister site Cruise Ship Deck Plans explains how to read a deck plan, and Cruise Upgrades explains how upgrades are offered. On the island-hopping week, an inside or ocean-view cabin is a sensible way to put more of your budget into excursions.
Matching Ships to Travelers
Families usually want big ships with water play and kids clubs; couples on a crossing often prefer mid-sized ships with good dining and quiet lounges; luxury travelers look for small ships and inclusive fares. Our best cruise line for Hawaii page matches lines to travel styles, and Cruise Compares compares ships across the major lines.
One last tip: newer is not automatically better for Hawaii. Some of the most loved Hawaii ships are older, mid-sized vessels whose layouts suit long sea days, while some of the newest ships are designed around short, port-heavy cruises. Judge the ship by how you will use it.
Ship Questions
Is a balcony worth it on a Hawaii cruise?
On the island-hopping week you are ashore most days, so many guests save on the cabin. On a crossing with several sea days, or for coastline sail-bys such as Na Pali, a balcony adds a lot. Decide by how much time you will spend on board.
Does ship size matter in Hawaii?
Somewhat. Every main Hawaii port takes large ships, but at Kona, where ships usually tender, a smaller ship means fewer people waiting for the boats.
Find the Right Ship for Your Hawaii Cruise
Tell us what matters to you on board. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will suggest the best ships for your Hawaii dates and send free quotes.
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