The Big Island cruises offer a lot in the way of variety, so finding one that fits into your vacation plans shouldn't be an issue. A Big Island dinner cruise only lasts a few hours, and it can be ideal for couples, groups of friends, or families. For those who have more time to work with, extended Big Island cruises that include chances to explore the island's top attractions are worth considering. Cruises to the Big Island can be an ideal way to arrive, and often these kinds of cruises will include stops on other Hawaiian islands. Since the distances between the islands in Hawaii are relatively short, you'll have more time to enjoy a range of things to do at your ports of call. Between ports, onboard entertainment provides plenty to enjoy along the way.

Kona and Hilo are the main ports of call for Big Island cruises. Upon arriving in Kona on cruises to the Big Island, the list of onshore activities can include a visit to a beach such as Kahaluu Beach Park, a trip to Parker Ranch, and a shopping spree on Alii Drive, among other things. If you are already based at one of the Kona hotels or Kohala Coast hotels, you can consider booking more specific cruises from Big Island Hawaii that include activities such as snorkeling and whale watching. Fishing charters are also easy to come by. For passengers on general cruises to the Big Island that arrive in Hilo, Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are among the attractions that you might consider visiting on your onshore excursion.

Most cruises to the Big Island depart from Honolulu, which is the capital of the state of Hawaii. Honolulu is located on Oahu, and there are plenty of hotels there to choose from if you need a place to stay before your cruise departs. Some cruises to the Big Island also depart from the neighboring island of Maui, though these are fewer in number. Inter-island cruises in the Hawaiian islands typically last between seven and ten days, and the ships for these kinds of extended cruises are quite stylish. Comfortable cabins serve as the guest rooms, and you'll want to get a cabin with ocean views if you can. Onboard restaurants, bars, and live entertainment help to liven up the mood if you are up for some action.

Big Island Map

You don't have to fly to Oahu or Maui first if you want to enjoy cruises to the Big Island. Some of the major cruise lines offer Hawaiian cruises that depart from San Diego, California, and Vancouver, British Columbia. These cruises typically last two to three weeks, and the ships that haul passengers are akin to small floating cities. As such, you will have no problem staying entertained when you're not enjoying onshore excursions at your various ports of call.

When a Big Island dinner cruise is what you have in mind, they are also easy to arrange. Hilo and Kona are again the top places to depart for these Big Island cruises, and there are plenty to choose from. Dining on authentic Hawaiian cuisine while you cruise out to sea is something all Big Island visitors should experience, and some of the cruises even include dancing. You can book a romantic Big Island dinner cruise, a family-oriented one, or a more raucous affair that involves plenty of partying. There's something for everyone when it comes to the Big Island cruises, which is one of the reasons you're encouraged to explore the options when planning your upcoming vacation.