Hawaii Cruises: Excursions

Tour the slopes of Hulalalai Volcano from the mountain to the sea. This is a rare chance to visit the endangered tropical cloud forests high above Kona, experience one of the most prestigious Kona Coffee farms, and explore the ancient fish traps of Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park. Your trained ranger guide will explore and share a private 70 acre cloud forest sanctuary. Walking under a canopy of 30 foot tall tree ferns, Ohia trees, and bamboo, learn about the tropical flora, birds and the endangered cloud forest itself before traveling to the award-winning Mountain Thunder Coffee Farm. Tour the coffee mill and then get ready to taste one of the most sought after coffees in the world grown on the volcanic slopes of Kona. Next take a scenic drive to the Kaloko Honokohau National Historical Park. Enjoy a short hike to visit the ancient heiau, or sacred temples, see the petroglyphs carved by the native Hawaiians who once lived here, and walk to the sandy shore where ancient Hawaiians stored their stocks of fish in traps and ponds. Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu), the very rare Hawaiian monk seal, dolphins and whales may be seen here. Note: Closed-toe shoes and long shorts/pants required. less

Located on Onomea Bay, this world-renowned tropical garden is a nature preserve that is acclaimed by visitors as 'the most beautiful area in Hawaii.' En route, your narrated tour takes you through the Japanese-style Liliuokalani Gardens, along Hilo Bay and the lush Hamakua Coast to Onomea Bay. Here, in the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Gardens, more than 2,500 species of tropical plant life have been assembled from regions all over the world; and the plants are labeled for easy identification. You'll receive a map of the garden's trails at the Visitor Center, and then enjoy your time wandering the garden grounds on your own, taking photographs or simply enjoying the incredible beauty. less

All aboard to Pawai Bay, a snorkeler's paradise! This remote area offers visibility up to 150 feet and enchanting coral gardens that are home to over 600 species of brightly-colored tropical fish. Dolphins often follow us as we cruise to our destination. This 4 1/2 hour cruise includes 2 1/2 hours of water time. Snorkel gear, instruction, Rx masks, flotation toys, fresh water showers, a 20-foot water slide, 15-foot high dive platform, his and her restrooms, continental breakfast, buffet sandwich and salad bar, sodas, juices and a no-host premium bar are included. Two extra wide swim platforms make it a cinch to get in and out of the water. This is fun for the entire family, and might just be the best day you'll spend in Hawaii. Note: To purchase alcoholic beverages, guests must be at least 21 years of age. A valid ID is required by law. less

Your exciting day begins with a scenic narrated drive from the cruise ship pier to the Visitor’s Center at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park by way of the famous Banyan Drive and Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo. Fill your senses with the ride of a lifetime! Experience the volcano up-close and personal as you ride through lush rainforest and lava frozen in time on your 21-speed mountain bike. Your cycling adventure is an eight-mile ride on paved roads around the crater rim. It consists of mostly level terrain with a couple of small uphill sections. Along with the cycling portion, you’ll hike through an incredible rainforest that leads you directly through an amazing lava tube. Other mini hikes are to scenic overlooks to witness the heart of the volcano exploding at Halemaumau Crater. Enjoy island fresh fruit, macadamia nuts and other assorted snacks during the tour. This fully narrated adventure is truly one of a kind! After your ride, stop at the Jaggar Museum where you’ll see videos of the volcano erupting. The Jaggar Museum is also home to many seismographs, which monitor every twitch of the Earth. Your day will include a stop at the famous Big Island Candies known for its famous handmade Hawaiian treats. Throughout the tour your guide will share with you history and geology of the area during the frequent stops along the way – an exciting and active way to spend the day at the volcano. Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age, a minimum of 4' 6" in height and know how to ride a bicycle. Please be advised that while at Volcanoes National Park, you may encounter natural sulfur gases which can affect those with respiratory problems. Bike, helmet, gloves and rain jacket are provided. Closed toe shoes are required. You won't see molten lava on this tour. Tour itinerary may change due to severe weather or volcanic activity. less

This exclusive journey takes you by air-conditioned 4 x 4 van, along seldom-used roads to areas of incredible beauty. Due to their inaccessibility, these roads have been off limits to all but sugarcane workers for years. Meander past reservoirs and fields en route to Kilohana Crater, as your guide tells you about Kauai's history and culture. The 360-degree panorama from the summit of the crater is breathtaking. Then, continue through Old Koloa Town, the birthplace of Hawaii's sugar industry to pristine Mahaulepu Beach. Here you'll enjoy a light snack and an optional nature walk. On the return, you'll pass through a mountain tunnel to further enhance your backroads look at Kauai. Note: This tour is not recommended for guests with back problems, those prone to motion sickness, or who are pregnant. Children under 4 years of age must ride in a car seat. less