Discovering Hawaii: A Tropical Paradise for Cruise Enthusiasts
As a travel enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the concept of a Hawaiian cruise. Imagine waking up in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and lush green mountains. Sounds like a dream come true, right? In this article, we’ll delve into the best time to take a Hawaiian cruise, climate and temperature information, prices and recommendations, itineraries, and everything you need to know before embarking on an unforgettable adventure.
When to Go: The Best Time for a Hawaiian Cruise
Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about when to go. The best time to take a Hawaiian cruise depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy pleasant weather, May and June are ideal months. These periods fall outside of the cyclone season, ensuring calm seas and comfortable temperatures.
However, if you’re looking for a more traditional tropical experience, July to September might be the best time for you. Although it’s the hottest and most humid period, you can still enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenic views.
But be warned: this is also the peak hurricane season, so make sure to monitor weather forecasts before your trip.
Climate, Temperature, and Precipitation
Hawaii’s climate is tropical, with a warm season from June to October. However, temperatures can vary depending on the exposure, with trade winds influencing the climate. Rainfall also depends heavily on wind direction, creating a mix of forests and desert areas within a short distance.
Here’s a breakdown of average temperatures and rainfall throughout the year:
| Month | Average Temperature (Min/Max) | Days of Rainfall |
|---|---|---|
| January | 19/27°C | 8 |
| February | 19/27°C | 7 |
| March | 20/27°C | 9 |
| April | 21/28°C | 8 |
| May | 22/29°C | 6 |
| June | 23/31°C | 6 |
| July | 24/31°C | 7 |
| August | 24/32°C | 6 |
| September | 24/31°C | 7 |
| October | 23/30°C | 8 |
| November | 22/29°C | 9 |
| December | 20/27°C | 10 |
Cost of Cruise in Hawaii: Prices, Recommendations, and Itinerary
Prices for a Hawaiian cruise can range from €900 to €2,500 per person for a 7-13 day journey. Yes, it’s an investment, but trust us, it’s worth it!
Here are some recommendations to consider:
- Cruise Duration: If you’re starting from Vancouver, take a 13-day cruise to visit more islands. Cruises that start directly from Honolulu can be as short as 7 days, but this may leave less time for exploring the islands.
- Itinerary: There are various types of itineraries, often touching ports in the Pacific Ocean circuit, such as Papeete, Bora Bora, or the western coast of the United States (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Acapulco).
- Accommodations: Everything except drinks and flights is included in the cruise price.
Cruise Itinerary Example
Here’s an example itinerary that includes Hawaii:
Day 1: Departure from Rome or Milan with a stopover at Toronto Airport
- Onboarding and departure from Vancouver Port
- Five days of navigation, including relaxation on deck, spa treatments, and activities like jogging, basketball, golf, and visiting the ship’s bars.
Day 2-3: Lahaina, Maui Island
- Spend a day at the beach or take an excursion to observe whales or dolphins.
- Explore Front Street in Lahaina and visit nearby beaches like Kaanapali Beach or Hanauma Bay.
Day 4-5: Nawiliwili, Kauai Island
- Relax on Lydgate Beach or go surfing at Kalapaki Beach.
- Visit the Nāpali Coast Park or Hanalei Bay.
Day 6-7: Hilo, Hawaii Island
- Take excursions to Raimbow Falls or Coconut Island.
- Visit Hilo Bay, Onomea Bay, and Honoli’i Beach Park.
Day 8-9: Kauai Island (again)
- Relax on the beach or take another excursion in the Nāpali Coast Park.
- Visit Kilauea Point Wildlife Reserve and observe monk seals, sea turtles, dolphins, and more.
Day 10: Honolulu, Oahu Island
- Explore the city during the morning and visit beautiful beaches like Hanauma Bay or Makapu’u Beach.
- Choose to visit Manoa Falls for a scenic hike.
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Final Destination:
After an unforgettable journey, your cruise will conclude in Honolulu, Oahu Island. Here, you can spend the day exploring the city, visiting iconic landmarks, and enjoying the beautiful beaches that Hawaii is famous for.
Returning Home
As your adventure comes to an end, it’s time to head back home. Most cruises offer a return journey with flights from Italy to Rome or Milan, typically with at least one stopover in Toronto.
Where are the Hawaiian Islands?
Located in the middle of the Northern Pacific Ocean, Hawaii is an archipelago of tropical islands that belong politically to the United States. Despite being far from the continental coast, they’re easily accessible by air and sea.
What to Bring:
Before your trip, make sure to pack everything you need for a comfortable cruise experience:
- Swimwear and towels
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- A light jacket or foulard to protect yourself from the marine breeze
- Umbrella
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time to take a Hawaiian cruise?
A: May and June are ideal months, as they fall outside of the cyclone season and offer pleasant weather.
Q: How long do cruises typically last in Hawaii?
A: Cruises can range from 7 to 13 days, depending on the itinerary and departure location.
Q: What types of itineraries are available for Hawaiian cruises?
A: There are various itineraries that touch ports in the Pacific Ocean circuit, such as Papeete, Bora Bora, or the western coast of the United States (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Acapulco).
Q: Are flights included in the cruise price?
A: No, flights need to be arranged separately.
Q: What should I pack for a Hawaiian cruise?
A: Bring swimwear, towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, a light jacket or foulard, and an umbrella.
Q: Can I book excursions onboard?
A: Yes, excursions can be booked onboard starting at €50 per person.
Q: Are there any safety concerns during a Hawaiian cruise?
A: Although rare, hurricanes can occur in Hawaii. Always monitor weather forecasts before your trip.
Q: How do I get to the port of departure for my Hawaiian cruise?
A: Flight arrangements typically include a stopover at Toronto Airport.
With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Hawaii!