Cruise Excursions in Hawaii
 

We are taking a 9 day cruise in May from Ensenada Mexico to Hawaii and am confused as to which shore excursions to take or whether or not we should even book them ahead of time. We are not ancient history buffs but do like lush scenery and like beaches, sunning and snorkeling. My husband likes to snorkel while I just like the beach and didn't know if these snorkeling excursions had a beach area where I can bask in the sun while he snorkels. Any help you can give me would be greatly appreciated Thanks a bunch!

What islands are you going to? it depends onthe times of year, etc. Whale watching would be neat if you were heading there in Dec-March. I wouldn't pay for a snorkeling trip because you can pretty much snorkel for free off of any beach in Kauai and see tons of fish.

Yes, let us know which ports of call and how long you have at each one...

IMO taking the cruiseline excursions are pricier than the same ones you can obtain at most piers when you are getting on the island. I have never personally taken a Hawaii cruise so can not speak specifically about this itinerary but have done almost every Caribbean Itinerary and Mexican one and have found it just as easy and cheaper to find a guide at the pier. My 2 cents. There is a good board with info on cruise ports for more information www.cruisecritic.com just go to the "Boards" tab at the top and you can search info on your ship as well as by islands.

We are going to Hilo, Oahu, Kailua Kona, Lahaina, Maui and Nawiliwili, Kauai.

On Maui if you can take the bus from Lahaina to Kaanapali you can get dropped off at the Sheraton and snorkel at Black Rock and be on a great beach. You're also near Whaler's village where you can shop and snack. I think Lahaina to Kaanapali is $1 per person.

Here's a time table: http://www.akinatours.com/Downloads/Akina_schedule.pdf

ON Kauai you can acatch a rental car shuttle and rent a car to great snorkel beaches nearby like Lydgate or go to Poipu.

If the snorkeling excursions you are being offered include a boat, the odds are that it will _all_ be open-water tours (no beaches).

On your Kaua`i stop, you can stroll from the ship to the Marriott Hotel -- with shops along the way -- have lunch (and a drink) at Duke's Canoe Club, loll on the beach, take a surfing lesson, or snooze under a tree. No tour guide required! 8-)

What about beaches in Kailua Kona? Are there some there where my husband can snorkel and I can relax on the beach?

Suggest Kahaluu Bay Beach Park, as with Kona area sand is limited but snorkeling is great!!! :S-