Hawaii Cruise 8 Nights • Oahu (Honolulu), Hawaii to Vancouver, British Columbia • Anthem of the Seas

Planning a cruise from Oahu? Make sure you tack on a few days ahead of your vacation to explore this wild, beautiful island. Home to the Hawaiian capital of Honolulu, Oahu brims with natural beauty everywhere you look. From its world-famous white-sand beaches, crystal-clear Pacific waters, rolling emerald mountains and lush tropical rainforests, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, snorkelers and surfers. In fact, Oahu’s surf culture is one of the richest in the world. Take a day trip to the island’s north shore, where huge barrel waves draw professional surfers from around the globe every year to compete in tournaments and hone their skills. For a crash course in Hawaii’s monarchical history and culture, visit Bishop Museum at Iolani Palace, once the royal residence of Hawaii’s rulers. And if you’re craving a tasty bite to eat, the dishes you’ll find in the Hawaiian restaurants at Waikiki International Market Place are among the best of Oahu.

Your ship departs promptly at 7:00 pm, so plan to arrive at least 2-3 hours early to account for checking in and boarding protocols. During this time, many of the ship's amenities are open and operating, so feel free to start your vacation early.

Whether you're looking for the perfect beach experience or fascinating Hawaiian history, Kailua Kona is the right place. Hike over lava rocks to pristine, secluded Makalawena Beach, where you can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. Back in town, learn about the Hawaiian monarchy at 19th-century Hulihee Palace. Or see how early Hawaiians lived among the thatched-roof houses and lava-stone walls at Kaloko-Honokahau National Historical Park.

Kick off the afternoon lunching on xiaolongbao buns in Chinatown. Then explore the city’s cultural offerings at the Bill Reid Gallery or Vancouver Art Gallery. Get into some active adventure, whether it’s water-biking False Creek or mountain-biking the North Shore. Evenings are best spent dining and drinking in Yaletown’s hip warehouse district.

The cruise might have ended, but there are still some great activities to enjoy in the area. If you flew into this port, be mindful of your departure flight time and plan accordingly.