Hawaiian Cruise or Land Package?
While the majority of my posts will emphasize the value of quick getaways, Hawaii will not be one of them. Even my restless nature can relax there… leisurely strolling the beach, or engaging in one of many activities… hiking, canoeing or taking in the scenery of the Road to Hana.
One question I am asked often is should we cruise Hawaii or book a land package? Both offer unique benefits and you cannot go wrong either way. If time permits, it might be beneficial to do both
. If not, that is what we are here for… to do the work for you for comparison. Here’s our top 3 advantages for each:
CRUISE
- Group Travel – A great option if you plan to vacation with a group of friends and/or family. You will be able to leisurely explore many islands and easily pick and choose excursions you can enjoy with others or take time to yourself.
- Cost and Meal Convenience – The price of food in Hawaii can make cruising a better deal and you can’t beat the convenience of knowing where to eat. You can always book a traditional luau on an island stop if you had your heart set on that experience.
- Scenery – the scenery is beautiful either way, but the ship does offer a different perspective. What a sight it was sailing past an active volcano at night!
One thing I want to point out regarding cruising in Hawaii…. Many of my clients enjoy the gambling aspect of cruising. Onboard casinos will not be an option, however, since gambling is prohibited.
LAND PACKAGE
- Beaches – The beaches are some of the most beautiful I have ever seen! While you can get a taste of them during shore excursions on the ship, it is difficult to beat the sand in your toes watching the sun rise and set. Not to mention having the sand at your exposal all day should you choose.
- Culture – One aspect I love about travel is meeting locals and getting the inside scoop on where to eat, or what activities to enjoy that are lesser known. A land package definitely offers an advantage here.
- More Flexibility – While the cruise does offer adventurous excursions, they will be timed and well organized. It is very easy to get around and explore in Hawaii. Though I am not one to enjoy driving on vacation, Hawaii is the exception. Whatever you happen across… be it a small family run store or farm, a hidden beach you want to explore, or want to capture photos of that beautiful rainbow, you can take it all in with little time restrictions.
Whatever you choose, here are some basics before you go…
- Aloha (a-lo-ha) – Greeting
- Aloha kakahiaka(a-lo-ha kah-kah-hee-yah-kah) – Good morning
- Aloha ‘auinalā(a-lo-ha ah-wee-na-la) – Good afternoon
- Aloha ahiahi (a-lo-ha a-hee-yah-hee) – Good evening
- Mahalo(mah-hah-loh) – Thank you
- ‘A’ ole palikia (ah-oh-leh pee-lee-kee-yah) – You’re welcome
- A hui hou (ah-hoo-wee-ho-oo-uu) – Until we meet again
