We will be sailing on NCL's Pride of America in July. Car rentals seem to be the way to go. My question is parking available near or in the ports and at what costs (Hilo, Maui-overnight , Kona, Kauai-overnight)?

My wife and I were on the POH in March. We found that Thrifty Car Rental worked best for us. Other Foderites had posted notes about joining their Blue Chip Clufree)and making reservations on line before leaving home. We did this for rentals at Maui and Kauai. The shuttle van was right at the dock to pick us up and we breezed right through the office and were quickly on our way. Prices were in line with the other rental agencies around $35-40/day. As far as parking, we did not park at Kauai so I can't answer that. At Maui, the van driver pointed out two free parking areas on the dock. One is right at the security gate and the other is cross dock from the ship, about a 10 minute walk. One important thing to know is when the last shuttle vans run. The closing times were not always the times posted on line. At Maui, we found the office open until around 1030pm but the last shuttle ran at 900pm. After 900p, they would call a taxi for you. Depending upon what you are looking for, Kona might be a skip for car rental. All the stores and many sights are within walking distance. There are also shuttle vans to Hilo Hatties and Walmart. Hope this helps and have a great time!

On Kauai, limited parking is a 10 minute walk from the ship and costs $10 for overnight.

On Maui, parking is free in a small lot across from the ship and another a 5 minute walk away.

I rented cars from all ports, Thrifty was $33/day with taxes, all except Kona- Dollar and about $10 more.

Maui, has Very limited parking, and if you can get there early, better. Kauai- has $10 parking at a shopping center- it will be pointed out by the Thrifty shuttle van. Purchase the permit- early in the day. They do not oversell, but space is limited. Easy walk to ship from both parking areas.

We too are going on the POA in July. Wondered if you needed to rent the cars in advance or do you just grab a shuttle from the port that takes you to the car rental place. I am looking at renting in Maui for sure so we can travel around and go to the luau in the evening.

Thanks in advance!
Dave

You definately need to rent in advance. There is no charges to do so, so consider the reservation.