Hawaii is a string of lush Polynesian isles in the cobalt-blue Pacific, more than 2,000 miles away from the nearest continent. It’s also the US’s newest state, the only one to be made up entirely of islands – there are eight of them, only six of which are inhabited.
But there’s so much more to this gorgeous, multicultural location than surfing, grass skirts and hula dancing. Hike sculpted cliffs or dive down into cities of coral reefs, see fiery volcanos, enjoy the superb Pacific Rim cuisine or sip on a Mai Tai at sunset.
Hawaii is a lot less crowded than some other popular holiday destinations, and it’s also incredibly diverse. In less than an hour from the thriving cultural and economic centre of the capital and largest city, Honolulu, you can be in lush rainforest or basking in the sun on white sand.
So it’s no wonder that Hawaii cruises are growing in popularity. And the fact that many are all-inclusive makes them great value. You’ll find your travel money stretches further since all your accommodation, travel and entertainment are already paid for. Check out the cheap cruises on offer from Virgin Holidays cruises for a selection of itineraries.
What’s more, on a cruise you won’t be constantly packing and unpacking as you move around.
While on a land-based holiday island hopping trips would cost you extra, with cruise deals it’s all covered. You can sit back, relax and feel thoroughly away from it all as you drift from one awe-inspiring Hawaiian isle to another, seeing far more of this enchanting destination from your floating holiday base than you would on dry land.
So, if you’ve ever dreamt of sun-worshipping on Honolulu’s world-famous Waikiki Beach or the fine white sands of Maui, now’s your chance!
Off the boat you’ll be able to enjoy an array of activities, from a spot of whale-watching to deep-sea fishing to a flight over the islands, giving you a jaw-dropping bird’s eye view of geographical features like volcanos and canyons. You could also trek to the summit of Halekala on Maui to see the sunrise, or drink some of the world’s finest coffee in the green hills above Kona.
So, from sightseeing to full-on adrenaline-fuelled action, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
On board, expect more activities to choose from, fine dining and impeccable service as well as world-class entertainment each evening.
Your voyage will be likely to start and end in Honolulu and call in at the islands of Oahu, Kauai, Kiribati and Ensenada, as well as Maui, which has over 120 miles of glorious coastline. On the main island of Hawaii, you’ll probably call in at Kona and Hilo, on opposite ends of the island.
If you’re keen to spend at least some of your vacation on terra firma, consider combining a Hawaii cruise with a stay on one of its islands, or, while you’re in that part of the world, somewhere exciting like San Diego or LA.
If you’re wondering when the best season of the year is go, the good news is that there’s really no bad time to go on a Hawaiian cruise. There’s beautifully warm weather year-round, with coastal temperatures averaging a high of 28°C and a low of 20°C.
Whether you’re a romantic couple or a family with young children, or a solo traveller, you’ll find a Hawaii cruise that suits you. And as a soggy summer is followed by a chilly, grey autumn, what better way of escaping grey British skies?
Say aloha! to Hawaii this winter or 2013. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to unwind somewhere different, a Hawaii cruise has all the ingredients of an idyllic break.
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