Princess and Crystal Cruises both propose exciting Hawaii cruises originating and concluding in San Francisco. These captivating voyages include round trips, ensuring your expedition commences and terminates in SF.
A part of these itineraries is a pause at some of Hawaii’s most sought-after docking points, which include Honolulu, Lahaina on Maui, and Hilo. Furthermore, both these cruises also plan a stopover in Ensenada, Mexico.
These delightful sea voyages guarantee a generous amount of days at sea to lay back and rejuvenate. Rest assured, you will have ample time to explore each port city during your halts.
Princess Cruises: 15-Day Hawaiian Island Expedition
The 15-Day Hawaiian Island Expedition promises nine completely leisurely days at sea. It schedules stops at four ports in Hawaii and one in Mexico.
While in Hawaii, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Hilo, Honolulu, Kauai, and Maui. En route back to San Francisco, you’ll make a brief evening halt in Ensenada, Mexico.
The journey culminates with one final day at sea, and you dock in San Francisco on the morning of Day 16.
The Grand Princess, a capacious cruise ship accommodating around 2,600 passengers, is your expedition vessel. The ship boasts several swimming pools, a comprehensive spa service, and a poolside cinema. Additionally, you can keep yourself entertained in the casino, a nightclub-style performance, or at one of several lounges.
A plethora of exquisite and casual dining options are available onboard. Along with the traditional cruise dining halls, you can also enjoy the specialty restaurants that serve Italian delicacies, steaks, or seafood. Alternatively, you can get something from one of the casual eateries serving pizza, burgers, and ice cream.
For those preferring a quiet evening, the Grand Princess also provides 24-hour room service.
Itinerary
The following is the customary itinerary for this cruise. Please note it may change occasionally, so always verify the final itinerary before booking.
Day 1: Depart San Francisco at 4pm.
Day 2 – 5: Your first four days are spent at sea, heading west towards Hawaii.
Day 6: Your first port of call is Hilo, Hawaii. Arrival is around 8am, departure at 5pm. Discover more about Hilo here.
Day 7: The following morning, you’ll arrive in Honolulu at 7am. An entire day is yours to explore this charming seaside city, departing at 11pm. Check out Honolulu highlights here.
Day 8: The next morning, you’ll land at Kauai (Nawiliwili) at 8am, departing around 5pm. Tips on visiting Kauai can be found here.
Day 9: Your final Hawaiian port of call is Maui (Lahaina), arriving at 7am and departing at 6pm. Find out about the top things to do here.
Day 10 – 13: Your homeward journey begins post-departure from Maui. These four days, you’re at sea.
Day 14: On the evening of Day 14, a short stopover is scheduled in Ensenada, Mexico. You’ll have about four hours to visit, enjoy dinner, and explore this historical town.
Day 15: Day 15 offers another tranquil day at sea as you sail north to your final destination, San Francisco.
Day 16: Your journey concludes with a 7am arrival in San Francisco on the morning of Day 16.
Note: This is a standard journey plan; however, itineraries may change at any point. Always confirm your final itinerary before booking.
Upcoming Departure Dates
- 2023: 11/5 – 11/21, 11/26 – 12/12, 12/22 – 1/7
- 2024: 12/22 – 1/7, 1/7 – 1/23, 2/22 – 3/9, 3/9 – 3/25, 4/4 – 4/20, 9/16 – 10/13
Crystal Cruises: A 16-Day Journey to Hawaii
The Crystal Cruises’ 16-day Hawaiian Voyage is akin to the previously mentioned trip, but with a slight alteration. This journey extends your stay in Honolulu by a day and introduces you to the charm of Kailua-Kona in place of Kauai.
This sea excursion is onboard Crystal Serenity, the jewel in Crystal Cruises’ crown. It is their most spacious ship with accommodation for just over a thousand guests, ensuring a relaxed and uncrowded voyage.
The Serenity is outfitted with a range of exclusive boutiques, numerous relaxing poolside loungers, and a variety of food joints. It also houses a cutting-edge 24-hour computer lab, a Dolby-powered theater, and an opulent casino.
Your sea days are guaranteed to be filled with fascinating diversions.
Itinerary
Day 1: Your adventure starts from San Francisco, setting sail at 5pm.
Day 2 – 5: The following four days are spent navigating the Pacific towards the enchanting Hawaiian archipelago.
Day 6 – 7: On Day 6, you make landfall in Honolulu at midday. An overnight dock allows two full days to discover Honolulu’s unique culture. The ship departs at the stroke of midnight on Day 7.
Day 8: The following dawn, you dock in Lahaina, Maui. A day’s time is yours to unravel the colorful island’s wonders. You’ll make port at 8am and set sail at 11:59pm.
Day 9: The ship takes you next to Kailua-Kona. Again, the early morning arrival at 8am allows you plenty of time to explore, until the ship sets sail at 6pm.
Day 10: The last Hawaiian destination is Hilo, reached on Day 10. The ship drops anchor at 8am, giving you until 3pm to explore this quaint town.
Day 11 – 14: Day 11 marks the commencement of your homeward journey. Heading east, you’ll have four serene sea days.
Day 15: The dusk of Day 15 brings a brief stop in Ensenada, Mexico. You’ll dock at 4pm and bid goodbye at 9pm.
Day 16: The penultimate day is spent at sea as the ship steers north towards San Francisco.
Day 17: The grand finale, you return to San Francisco at 8am on the concluding day.
Suggested Destinations on this Voyage
Hilo
Nestled on the expansive island of Hawaii, Hilo is a charming port town inhabited by approximately 40,000 residents. During your sojourn here, indulge in the deep-seated history of this picturesque locale through a knowledgeable guided tour or an independent exploration. Adventurous souls can journey westward for thrilling experiences such as trekking, ziplining, or an awe-inspiring visit to the peak of Mauna Loa, one of the globe’s grandest volcanoes.
Honolulu
Hawaii’s most populous city, Honolulu, teems with intriguing sights and activities. Whether you explore this stunning metropolis independently or partake in a popular shore excursion, your adventure will be enriched. Highlights include city tours that pause at renowned attractions, such as the Pearl Harbor Museum. You might also try your hand at surfing, plunge into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling, or embark on the mesmerizing Atlantis Submarine Adventure.
Kauai (Nawiliwili)
Kauai, the earliest of the Hawaiian archipelago, is an enchanting stopover in Hawaii. This serene island boasts beautiful beaches and endless exploration opportunities.
A preferred excursion here takes you to the majestic Waimea Canyon. This journey also grants you views of Hawaii’s inaugural sugar cane plantation and the incredible sight of Spouting Horn at Po’ipu South Kauai propelling seawater 50 feet skyward.
Maui (Lehaina)
Lehaina, an ideal locale for independent exploration, presents an array of captivating beaches and a city teeming with history. It’s an optimal spot for whale watching or a visit to the Haleakala Crater, a volcano constituting over 75% of Maui Island.
Kailua-Kona
Located on the western flank of the big island, Kaulua-Kona (commonly known as Kona), is a hub of adventurous pursuits and serene beach relaxation. Coffee aficionados must not miss out on the famed local brew cultivated here. Kona is also a delightful place to explore on foot.
Accommodation Recommendations in San Francisco Pre or Post-Cruise
Should your plans involve a stay in San Francisco prior to or following your cruise, the Fisherman’s Wharf district comes highly recommended. Proximate to Pier 27, where cruises moor, this district hosts Pier 39, Ghirardelli Square, and the ferry services to Alcatraz.
Hello there! I’m Dennis, and I am delighted to welcome you to San Francisco Discovery Guide. As a lifelong resident of this magnificent city, I am thrilled to share my love and knowledge of San Francisco with fellow adventurers like yourself.
Growing up amidst the breathtaking landscapes, eclectic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture of San Francisco, I developed a deep appreciation for the city’s unique charm. Over the years, I’ve explored its nooks and crannies, uncovered hidden gems, and created countless unforgettable memories.