Hawaii - to cruise or to island hop?

I would go with the island hop. I've been on two cruises with family and really don't get the appeal. I'd rather spend my time at the destination, not on a boat. Plus so many issues have come up with cruises breaking down or getting attacked or any number of things.

I went on a cruise and loved it. We got to see many things that I don't think we would have if we just island hopped or stayed on one island. One of the coolest things was seeing the lava flow from one of the islands into the ocean, at night. Since the islands are relatively close, you are in port early in the morning and have the whole day and most of the evening to check out the islands, and you can come and go off the boat as you please. So we would go back for lunch or dinner and then head out again. If you have never been to Hawaii before it's a great way to see it all and then decide what island you might want to spend the most time at next trip. I enjoy cruising.

I would cruise in Hawaii! When I went it was essentially like island hopping with the floating hotel..so you get the benefit of both. Actually I loved it and it was one of my favorite cruises I've been on (I've been on 7-8 or so). Like Tara said, it's nice because you really get to choose what you do - explore the island, stay on the boat...whatever you want! It's really great for food as well because with the cruise you've already paid for your meals so you can decide whether you want something different or if you want to treat yourself a little bit! You also always have nice entertainment on the boat at night and IMO there's nothing like ocean waves to rock you to sleep

Tara & Future Mrs. Voso - Which cruise lines did you use and what length? Sounds like you ladies had a blast!!!

I believe I went on Royal Caribbean.........honestly it was maybe 8 years ago I can't remember! I can honestly say though I ALWAYS prefer Carnival! It's less expensive...I see no difference in quality compared to the other lines (I've been on all except Princess but my parents have and they agree) and I think it's more fun...better people watching opportunities! Lol!

I can't remember, but I usually do Carnival. It was 7 days and left from the islands. I know they have some leaving from the mainland that are longer in length, but you spend many days at sea.

Looks like Norwegian is the only cruise line that does Hawaii in 7 days leaves from Honolulu

I live in Hawaii, and I will advise strongly against cruises! In most islands, you don't get to dock in the nicer areas - you're at the port, far from the beaches and resorts or you're taking a tender on rough oceans. You cannot really experience any of the islands while cruising as all of them, even Kauai, take days to explore. And generally, cruise tourists are the worst - always in a hurry yet still asking for discounts. If you want to see Aloha, don't cruise.

Island hop, you can see more unique places and take your time. I would limit it to like 2 islands.

I have been to Hawaii 5 times. I would do the Cruise on NCL. They stay in the ports for 40 hours. You can also add a few days in Oahu.