Princess and Holland America in Hawaii
Two traditional lines that make the Pacific crossing part of the holiday.
Compare Hawaiian Cruise QuotesThe Classic West Coast Hawaii Lines
Princess Cruises and Holland America Line have long been two of the main Hawaiian cruise lines for travelers who want the voyage itself to be part of the holiday. Their Hawaii cruises sail from the mainland or Canada and spend several relaxed days at sea each way.
Both lines belong to the same parent company and share a traditional, unhurried style: sea-day lectures and classes, good dining, and itineraries long enough to settle in. Their Hawaii programs differ mainly in departure ports and voyage length.
Princess Cruises in Hawaii
Princess is closely associated with round-trip Hawaii voyages from Los Angeles, and at times from San Francisco, typically around 15 or 16 nights. A typical voyage crosses to Hilo, then visits Kona, Honolulu and Kauaʻi (and often Maui) before returning, with a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, on the way home to meet U.S. cabotage rules. The line also schedules occasional one-way sailings between Vancouver and Hawaii.
It suits travelers who like a big but traditional ship, enjoy sea days, and live within reach of the California ports.
Holland America Line in Hawaii
Holland America has offered long Hawaii voyages from San Diego, including “circle Hawaii” sailings that can be combined with Mexico, and voyages linking Vancouver with Hawaii and the U.S. West Coast. For 2027 the line lists Koningsdam on several of these routes. Its ships are mid-sized, with a calm atmosphere, live music venues and enrichment programs, and its Hawaii voyages are among the longer options on the market.
Holland America suits travelers with time, those who prefer a quieter ship and those who like to combine Hawaii with Mexico or the Pacific Northwest. Exact sailings vary by season, so ask our advisors for the current schedule.
Princess or Holland America?
Choose Princess if
you are near Los Angeles or San Francisco, want a classic round trip of about two weeks, and like a larger ship with plenty of choice.
Choose Holland America if
you want a longer, quieter voyage, sail from San Diego or Vancouver, or want to pair Hawaii with Mexico.
Either way
pick a cabin that suits long sea days; a balcony is especially welcome on a Pacific crossing. See Cruise Ship Deck Plans.
For more on sailing from the mainland, port by port, see our sibling site Hawaiian Cruise.
Both lines also attract many repeat Hawaii cruisers, who often say the familiar rhythm of the voyage — the gradual warming as the ship heads south-west, the clocks going back each night, the first sight of the Big Island — is the reason they return.
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