Sunday, April 21, 2013

Top 10 Reasons to Cruise Hawaii


Having been to Hawaii years ago we are looking forward to our return visit.   We are already planning for spring break next year and will be hitting 4 islands in seven days (with a pre-stay at Disney's Aulani Resort).  Of course you can only cover that many islands in seven days on a fantastic cruise. There is an abundant amount of port time to discover the wonders Hawaii has to offer.  I thought I would list 10 outstanding reasons why we are going to cruise Hawaii next March.

1.  Soak Up the Aloha Spirit

Meet, mingle and learn from the people of Hawaii who warmly welcome newcomers to explore their gorgeous tropical world.  Feel the gentle island breezes.  Sample Hawaii’s cuisine.  Float from island to island and soak up the Aloha Spirit.

2. Marvel at Fire and Water

Watch the power and majesty of Kilauea’s flow on the island of Hawaii, affectionately called the Big Island. This volcano has been continuously erupting since the 1980s. From your cruise ship balcony or the ship’s outer decks, see fiery lava meet the cool sea, a nighttime show of steam and surf only nature can deliver.

3. Total Destination Immersion:

On an inclusive cruise, you’ll experience MORE of Hawaii with port calls at two, three or even four of the main islands—Kauai, Maui, Oahu and Hawaii (the Big Island).  Cruisers may also explore Lanai or Molokai on a shore excursion.  Enjoy spectacular scenic beauty as your ship sails among the isles.  You’ll visit multiple destinations as well as choose from hundreds of shore adventures across the Aloha State.

4. Create Adventures in Paradise

Hike up Diamond Head, swim under a waterfall, kayak along scenic coastlines, or bike down a volcano.  Golfers may tee off at world class courses.  Families will relish beach time, ziplining or attractions like Panaewa Rainforest Zoo.  If you desire a driving adventure, head out on the 52-mile road trip to laid-back Hana; the winding Maui highway impresses with twists, hairpin turns, gorgeous scenery and cascading waterfalls.  And cruisers will look in wonder at Kauai’s Waimea Canyon, known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

5. Step Into Hawaii’s Past

Discover Pacific culture, Hawaii’s royal past and native traditions.  Learn about the island’s early 19th-century whaling heritage in old Lahaina or take your own eco-friendly whale-watching adventure.  See movie locations where Elvis Presley filmed scenes for Blue Hawaii. At Pearl Harbor on Oahu, learn about World War II history and pay tribute to America’s fallen heroes at the U.S.S. Arizona Memorial

6. Savor – Sun, Sand, Surf, and Sea

Work on your tan while relaxing on both white and black sand beaches.  Hike along rocky shores and secluded coves. Learn to surf on Oahu’s Waikiki Beach or elsewhere in the islands. Look for turtles, dolphins and colorful fish while snorkeling, swimming or scuba diving.  Plunge into the depths of Hawaii’s waters—without getting wet—on a submarine.  And when the day is over, head to your cruise ship for a dip in the pool or a pampering spa treatment.

7. Explore Agricultural and Ranching Traditions

See how macadamia nuts are raised and commercially processed.  Learn how sugarcane and pineapple plantations fueled Hawaii’s economy in the 20th century.  Search for cowboy tales and tour the homestead at Parker Ranch, Hawaii’s largest ranch at 220,000 acres.  Sip savory Kona coffee and buy some to take home.  Hop on a tram at Maui Tropical plantation to see agricultural villages, macadamia nut orchards, sugarcane fields and flower gardens.

8. See the World—and Yourself—Differently

Stand atop the world at sunrise at Haleakala Crater, the world’s largest dormant volcano; its caldera is nearly eight miles across.  Renew your wedding vows on a remote beach or simply hum the Hawaiian Wedding Song as you stroll through Kauai’s lush Fern Grotto.  Walk through a volcano’s underground creation at the Thurston Lava Tube.  Back onboard your ship, explore new culinary worlds; perhaps choose from French, Asian and Italian cuisine or even dine at a Brazilian churrascaria.

9. Party Hearty

Attend an old-fashioned luau; marvel at traditional Hawaii and Pacific dances (including Samoan fire knife dances); and chow down on roasted pig, fresh pineapple and luau, an island chicken dish first baked in coconut milk and then taro. Proudly wear a fresh orchid lei, order a tropical drink and learn how to hula.  Onboard, head out in search of a production show, comedic performance, dance club or piano bar.

10. Revel in the Inclusive Value

Cruising delivers tremendous value; accommodations, meals, entertainment, children’s activity programs and more are typically included within the cruise fare.  A cruise affords significant port time for exploring the Aloha State in-depth, yet your floating resort is your luxurious home away from home.  So picture yourself sitting on your ship’s private balcony and toasting with a glass of bubbly to your dream Hawaii vacation.

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