Hilo Shore Excursions - Princess Cruises
Kilauea Volcano
Visit the dramatic moon-like landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a trip along Kilauea 's Crater Rim Drive .
WHAT YOU VISIT
Volcanoes National Park - Your visit begins with an overview of the park from the Visitor Center . Then travel 11 miles by motorcoach around the spectacular Crater Rim Drive viewing the park's major sights. See smooth and jagged lava rock flows, sulfur banks and lava beds. Tradition and legend states that it is bad luck to take away pieces of lava rock. Reboard your motorcoach and stop at the Thurston Lava Tube for a short walk through wild, jurassic style jungle leading to the cave-like tube.
SHOPPING
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - Stop at the factory for a look at how macadamia nuts are processed; browse the gift store for souvenirs and macadamia products, and sample some free nuts or try the tasty ice cream at the snack bar.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Thomas A. Jaggar Museum - Located near the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, the museum offers panoramic views of Kilauea Caldera and Halema'uma'u Crater. Exhibits explain the history and geology of Hawaii 's volcanoes.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach and drive from Hilo , climbing through a lush rain forest, to Volcanoes National Park .
SPECIAL NOTES
You do not view molten lava flows on this tour.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket and umbrella in case of showers. Trails to view the volcano are uneven and rocky. Natural sulfur gases may affect those with respiratory problems.
The nut processing at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory does not take place on weekends; however, the Welcome Center and Gift Shop will be open and a stop will be made.
On some calls a motorcoach with wheelchair lift may be available. Space is extremely limited and requests can only be made onboard. Priority will be given to wheelchair confined passengers.
Hilo & Kilauea Volcano
Explore the dramatic moon-like landscapes of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on a guided drive that also takes in the sights of Hilo .
WHAT YOU VISIT
Volcanoes National Park - Your visit begins with an overview of the park from the Visitor Center . Then travel 11 miles by motorcoach around the spectacular Crater Rim Drive viewing the park's major sights. See smooth and jagged lava rock flows, sulfur banks and lava beds. Tradition and legend states that it is bad luck to take away pieces of lava rock. Reboard your motorcoach and stop at the Thurston Lava Tube for a short walk through wild, jurassic style jungle leading to the cave-like tube.
SHOPPING
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - Stop at the factory for a look at how macadamia nuts are processed; browse the gift store for souvenirs and macadamia products, and sample some free nuts or try the tasty ice cream at the snack bar.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Rainbow Falls - The falls are framed by Hawaii 's lush rain forest and if the sun shines at the correct angle, you may capture a glimpse of a rainbow.
Akatsuka Orchid Garden - With its stunning displays of many varieties and colors of orchids, the garden is an example of why Hilo is called the "flower capital of the world."
Kalapana - Stop for a firsthand look at the devastation caused by Kilauea 's recent eruptions.
LUNCH
A delightful buffet lunch will be served at the Volcano House Hotel and Restaurant, overlooking Kilauea Crater and Caldera.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Your tour begins with a guided drive through the town of Hilo , considered the wettest city in the United States and the self-proclaimed "flower capital of the world." Continue on, climbing through a lush rain forest of native ohia trees and giant ferns, to the top of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .
SPECIAL NOTES
You do not view molten lava flows on this tour.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket and umbrella in case of showers. Trails to view the volcano are uneven and rocky. Natural sulfur gases may affect those with respiratory problems.
The nut processing at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory does not take place on weekends; however, the Welcome Center and Gift Shop will be open and a stop will be made.
Not offered on all Island Princess voyages
Highlights Of Hilo
Experience the Big Island 's tropical splendors on a tour that visits Akaka Falls , the Nani Mau Gardens , and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Akaka Falls - The Hamakua Coast north of Hilo is the site of Akaka Falls . The breathtaking falls, framed by rainforest, plunge 422-feet over a volcanic ledge. A one-mile circular path leads through the lush forest to the falls.
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - Stop at the factory for a look at how macadamia nuts are processed; browse the gift store for souvenirs and macadamia products, and sample some free nuts or try the tasty ice cream at the snack bar.
Nani Mau Gardens - Board a tram for your narrated 20-minute ride through the 20-acre botanical garden, a repository for native Hawaiian flora including orchids, Koa trees, and bright red lehua blossoms.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Travel north from Hilo along the Hamakua Coast , passing large sugar cane plantations, en route to Akaka Falls .
SPECIAL NOTES
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket and umbrella in case of showers.
The nut processing at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory does not take place on weekends; however, the Welcome Center and Gift Shop will be open and a stop will be made.
The Summit Of Mauna Kea
Journey to the highest peak of the Pacific - the 13,796-foot summit of Mauna Kea .
YOUR MOUNTAIN VISIT
Mauna Kea is a sacred place with an ancient history, cultural sites, and unique beauty created by fire and ice. The ancient Hawaiians considered Mauna Kea home of Poli'ahu - the snow goddess and used the mountain as a burial site of High Chiefs. Today, the mountain is the world's premier spot for astronomy and home to some of the largest telescopes in the world. The view from atop Mauna Kea is best described as a majestic moonscape. Begin your tour with a drive through historic downtown Hilo passing Rainbow Falls , the Mauna Loa lava flows, and the Kipuka Pu'u Huluhulu Native Tree Sanctuary. During your visit to the mountain, pause at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy and the Keck Observatory – home to the world's largest telescope. A light picnic-style lunch is included.
SPECIAL NOTES
Minimum age to participate is 16 years.
Participants should wear long pants and comfortable shoes.
Pregnant women and people with heart or respiratory problems are advised not to participate on this tour. Passengers should be aware that about 30 minutes will be spent at an elevation of approximately 13,796 feet.
The lunch stop is at an elevation of 9,000 feet.
The Keck Observatory is closed on weekends and holidays.
Weather conditions can close the road to Mauna Kea or the Keck Observatory without warning. In such cases an alternate tour will be offered.
This tour is not available on every voyage.
Explore Hilo
This half-day tour explores Hawaii Volcanoes National Park followed by a visit to the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Volcanoes National Park - Travel 11 miles by motorcoach around the spectacular Crater Rim Drive , viewing the park's major sights. See smooth and jagged lava rock flows, sulfur banks and lava beds. Tradition and legend states that it is bad luck to take away pieces of lava rock. Stop at the Thurston Lava Tube for a short walk through wild, jurassic style jungle leading to the cave-like tube.
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - Stop at the factory for a look at how macadamia nuts are processed; browse the gift store for souvenirs and macadamia products, and sample some free nuts or try the tasty ice cream at the snack bar.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Thomas A. Jaggar Museum - Located near the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, the museum offers panoramic views of Kilauea Caldera and Halema'uma'u Crater. Exhibits explain the history and geology of Hawaii 's volcanoes.
King Kamehameha Statue - Erected in honor to King Kamehameha (1756 to 1819), Kamehameha the Great is known for unifying the main Hawaiian islands .
SHOPPING
Browse for souvenirs at Big Island Candies and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a guided drive through Hilo . Climb through a lush tropical rain forest of ohia trees to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour does not view molten lava flows.
Please note that there is insufficient time to stop at the Visitor Center in Volcanoes National Park on this tour.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket and umbrella in case of showers.
The nut processing at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory does not take place on weekends; however, the Welcome Center and Gift Shop will be open and a stop will be made.
The Best Of Hilo
This full-day tour of the highlights of Hilo visits Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , the Hawaii Botanical Gardens and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Volcanoes National Park - Your visit begins with an overview of the park from the Visitor Center . Then travel 11 miles by motorcoach around the spectacular Crater Rim Drive viewing the park's major sights. See smooth and jagged lava rock flows, sulfur banks and lava beds. Tradition and legend states that it is bad luck to take away pieces of lava rock. Reboard your motorcoach and stop at the Thurston Lava Tube for a short walk through wild, jurassic style jungle leading to the cave-like tube.
Hawaii Botanical Tropical Garden - Located near Onomea Bay , the garden features over 2,000 different species of flowers, fruits and plants, including orchids, palms, bromeliads, heliconias and rare and endangered plant species. Receive a map of the garden trails and then explore on your own for approximately two hours. The Orchid Garden is a photographer's paradise.
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory - Stop at the factory for a look at how macadamia nuts are processed; browse the gift store for souvenirs and macadamia products, and sample some free nuts or try the tasty ice cream at the snack bar.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Thomas A. Jaggar Museum - Located near the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, the museum offers panoramic views of Kilauea Caldera and Halema'uma'u Crater. Exhibits explain the history and geology of Hawaii 's volcanoes.
SHOPPING
Browse for souvenirs at Big Island Candies the gift shops at Hawaii Botanical Gardens and the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory.
LUNCH
A buffet lunch is served at a hotel in Hilo .
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach for a guided drive through Hilo . Climb through a lush tropical rain forest of ohia trees to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park .
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour does not view molten lava flows.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a rain jacket and umbrella in case of showers.
The nut processing at Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Factory does not take place on weekends; however, the Welcome Center and Gift Shop will be open and a stop will be made.
Tour involves considerable walking over uneven terrain.
Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden
Visit this world-renowned garden in a valley on the ocean - acclaimed by visitors as "the most beautiful area in Hawaii ."
WHAT YOU VISIT
Hawaii Botanical Tropical Garden - Within this tropical rainforest-with its waterfalls, meandering streams and rugged coastline- there is a vast array of tropical flowers, fruits and plants. To enhance the natural beauty, a collection of more than 2,500 species of tropical plant life has been assembled from tropical regions all over the world. Plants are labeled for identification, naming each by species, family and country of origin. A stroll through the Orchid Garden is a true photographer's paradise. Receive a map of the Garden trails and then enjoy approximately 90 minutes exploring on your own. After your walk you can enjoy photographs and relics that were recovered from the valley and are displayed in the Onomea Museum , located at the Visitors Center .
SHOPPING
The Botanical Garden's gift shop offers a fine array of art glass, ceramics, jewelry and other items handcrafted by local artisans. Tropical flower bouquets can be shipped the day you order. (Check shipping destinations at the gift shop.)
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your air-conditioned van for a narrated tour that passes Queen Liliuokani Gardens , the Hilo bay front and the Four-Mile Scenic Route on the way to Onomea Bay . The return trip includes a narrated tour of old Hilo town that passes the King Kamehameha statue.
SPECIAL NOTES
Some sections of the paths at the Botanical Gardens can be steep and difficult.
All children under 3 years of age must utilize a child safety seat during the van transfer; seat must be provided by the participants.
Kilauea Volcano Bike Adventure
Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Kilauea Caldera on a guided bike ride.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Thomas A. Jaggar Museum - Located near the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory, the museum offers panoramic views of Kilauea Caldera and Halema'uma'u Crater. Exhibits explain the history and geology of Hawaii 's volcanoes.
YOUR BIKE RIDE
Upon arrival at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Visitor Center, you will receive an orientation, safety briefing, mountain bike and safety equipment. Set off on an eight-mile ride around Kilauea Caldera, with stops and brief hikes at scenic points including Kilauea, Pu'u Pua'i and Halem'uma'u Overlooks, and the Thurston Lava Tube.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board an air-conditioned van for the trip from Hilo to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , climbing to the 4,000 foot summit of Kilauea Volcano, passing sugar cane plantation towns and a rain forest of ohia trees and tree ferns.
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour does not view molten lava flows.
This excursion is designed for physically fit passengers and involves hiking over uneven terrain and approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours of hiking over uneven terrain and bicycling over mostly level, undulating or downhill terrain with two easy uphill sections.
A van accompanies the group at all times.
Participants must be at least 54-inches in height and comfortable riding a bicycle. Minimum age to participate is 12 years.
Natural sulfur gases may affect those with respiratory problems.
Not available on all voyages.
Kukuihaele Ocean Cliffs Atv Adventure
Explore on 4-wheeled ATV the highlands of a nearly 1000-acre of a real life working cattle ranch to the beautiful rugged coastline of Hawaii 's Hamakua Coast .
YOUR ATV SAFARI
Borad your motorcoach for a narrated scenic drive up the Hamakua Coast to the ranch where you will be greeted by your Hawaiian guides and given a safety brief. The ATV ride takes you alongside the old Hamakua Ditch, an engineering masterpiece, which was the irrigation lifeline of Hawaii 's past sugar cane industry, an industry that thrived for 100 years. Then cross to a spring fed reservoir where Hamakua Sunfish are raised for consumption. Your ride descends toward the ocean passing through portions of the old Hamakua Highway and sugar cane fields. Travel under a canopy of ironwood trees through remnants of an old Hawaiian Village to the majestic sea cliffs which boast a superb view of the pounding Pacific surf below. Here you will take a short break to survey the blue-greens of the distant Waipi'o Valley north face.
SPECIAL NOTES
Persons under 16 years of age are not permitted by law to drive ATVs. All participants under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult.
Each person will be expected to drive their own All Terrain Vehicle (ATV / Quad Motor Bike).
Not recommended for passengers with back problems or those who are pregnant. Maximum weight is 250 lbs; minimum weight is 100 lbs. Participants must wear long pants, and closed-toe shoes; shirts with at least short sleeves are recommended as protection to sun as well as branches.
Tour is operated weather permitting and will not operate on Sundays.
Waipi'O Valley Horseback Ride
Spectacular scenery awaits you on the ridge high above Waipi'o Valley, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places on the face of the earth.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach and travel approximately 75-minutes north from Hilo along the Hamakua Coast to Waipi'o. Meet your local Hawaiian wrangler/guide for a brief orientation and then follow for a 2-hour horseback journey along the rim of the valley to the top of Hi'ilawe, one of Hawaii's highest and most beautiful waterfalls (conditions permitting). Take a break for views of the gently rolling hills, Mauna Kea , and the valley's mountains. Descending through open fields, you will see sugar cane fields and wild flowers before returning to the pier.
SPECIAL NOTES
Participants must be at least 8 years of age; passengers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. To protect the animals, passengers must weigh less than 230 lbs. Participants must wear long pants and closed-toe shoes.
Tour is operated weather permitting. Tour not available on Sundays.
Waipi'O Valley Of The Kings Expedition
Get off the beaten track by 4WD van, to explore a remote tropical valley - the longest valley on the island and the former home to many Hawaiian rulers.
YOUR 4WD EXPEDITION
Board your air-conditioned motorcoach and drive approximately 75-minutes north from Hilo along the Hamakua Coast to Waipi'o. Upon arrival, you will check-in and transfer to your 4WD van. Enter this remote valley and travel along unpaved backcountry roads and trails and through a number of streams on the valley floor, enjoying views of towering cliffs, waterfalls (conditions permitting), taro patches, lush tropical plants and flowers, and even wild horses. Your local guide shares the valley's history and legends as well as its spiritual significance to Hawaiians. At the end of your trip, refreshments will be served at a local art gallery.
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour does not operate on Sundays. Passengers should expect to travel over bumpy terrain and streams.
Tour not available on sundays.
Waipi'O Valley Mule Drawn Wagon
Step back in time to visit a remote tropical valley - the longest valley on the island - on a mule-drawn wagon ride.
YOUR WAIPI'O VALLEY WAGON RIDE
Join your air-conditioned motorcoach and drive approximately 75-minutes north of Hilo along the Hamakua Coast to Waipi'o. Transfer to a 4WD vehicle and drive to the wagon departure point on the valley floor. Board your mule-drawn wagon and travel back in time to a more traditional Hawaii . The remote valley features towering cliffs, waterfalls, taro patches, lush tropical plants and flowers, and wild horses. Your driver shares the valley's history and legends as well as its spiritual significance to Hawaiians. On the approximately 30 minute wagon ride take in spectacular views of the majestic Hi'ilawe Falls (conditions permitting).
SPECIAL NOTES
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes.
Passengers weighing more than 250 lbs. are requested to inform the Tour Office onboard so tour capacity can be appropriately arranged.
This tour does not operate on Sundays.
Secrets Of Puna - 4wd Safari
Explore a secret four-wheel drive road to the heart of Kilauea Volcano! Drive across the recent lava flows to view the current destructive volcanic eruptions from the comfort of your private luxury tour vehicle!
YOUR 4WD ADVENTURE
Puna District is located on the southeast corner of the Big Island of Hawai'i and home to some of the world's most spectacular natural sights. Erupting continuously since January 3, 1983, the volcano Kilauea has added more than 600 acres of land to the Big Island . Visit the site of the finest black sand beach in the world, Kaimu, entombed since 1990 under 75 feet of lava. Then, stop at a dramatic 75ft high lava cliff overlooking the brilliant blue Pacific Ocean for a gourmet lunch. After lunch, travel to the village of Kapoho , which was destroyed by lava in an eruption in 1960. Continue to a secret volcanically heated saltwater pool where you can snorkel, swim or play in the crystal clear, warm water with tropical fish, and giant honu (green sea turtles), while exploring the fascinating coastline. Finally, we stop at Lava Tree State Park .
Discover Hilo - Waves & Waterfalls
Tsunamis have reshaped the land and the history of Hilo . Discover how on a half-day tour of exploration.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Tsunami Museum - The Pacific Basin has a long dramatic history of devastation and rebirth caused by natural disasters and Hilo has suffered more damage than any other area of the islands. At a museum which chronicles the history of tsunamis - also referred to as tidal waves - watch an educational film about the awesome power of the tsunami, including real footage of the tsunami of 1946 that devastated so much of Hilo . Enjoy a live presentation by a knowledgeable museum docent who skillfully blends science and history.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Shinmachi Memorial - Erected in honor of the many residents of Hilo who lost their lives to the tsunami of 1946.
Akaka Falls - The Hamakua Coast north of Hilo is the site of Akaka Falls . The breathtaking falls, framed by rain forest, plunge 422-feet over a volcanic ledge. A one-mile circular path leads through the lush forest to the falls.
King Kamehameha Statue - Erected in honor to King Kamehameha (1756 to 1819), Kamehameha the Great is known for unifying the main Hawaiian islands .
SHOPPING
Browse for souvenirs at Big Island Candies and stock up on world famous handmade Hawaiian treats.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Drive along the scenic “ Old Road ” through a lush rain forest to visit magnificent Akaka Falls plunging 422-feet over the sheer cliffs of dormant Mauna Kea Volcano. Continue on to the Tsunami Museum and stop briefly at the Shinmachi Memorial and the statue of King Kamehameha before returning to the pier.
Kilauea Volcano Hiking Adventure
Join a naturalist guide for a hike on one of the world's most active volcanoes.
YOUR VOLCANO HIKING ADVENTURE
Your guide will narrate as your air-conditioned van takes you to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park . Set off on a 4-mile hike in the summit region of Kilauea Volcano. When flowing lava is visible (on the coastal flats 25 miles from the summit), your hike will be re-routed to allow for distant views of the area. This is a rare and unforgettable experience in a very special place. Your specially trained naturalist guide will provide engaging details about Kilauea 's volcanic activity, plants and history. Kilauea remains a sacred place for many Hawaiians; during your hike your guide will explain the cultural significance of the area as well as the ancient legends of Pele, the volcano goddess. Your hike will immerse you in the fantastic terrain, microclimates, and flora of Kilauea Volcano as you pass through lava fields, rainforest, near steam vents and through a lava tube.
LUNCH
A picnic lunch with cold juices or sodas will be provided during the tour. Bottled water is available throughout the tour.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you travel from sea level in Hilo to 4,000 feet at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park , climatically and geologically related changes in vegetation are evident. Rural communities along the way offer glimpses of everyday life in the islands.
SPECIAL NOTES
Light packs, walking sticks and rain jackets are provided. Participants must wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.
The length and route of the hike may vary depending on the conditions in the park. Hikers will walk up to 4 miles over uneven surfaces with changes in elevation totaling more than 800 feet.
Natural sulfur gases may affect those with respiratory problems. Lava sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Hawaii Windward Coast & Waterfalls Tour
Follow the trade winds as you visit the coastal lands of Hawaii 's oldest volcanic mountains; view waterfalls and coastal areas off the beaten track.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Scenic old roads wind along towering cliffs and rainforest streams taking you toward magnificent Waipi'o Valley - the largest valley on the Island of Hawaii . On the return leg, you will enjoy a walk through the heritage town of Honoka'a with charming old-style storefronts. En route, stop at Laupahoehoe Point with its spectacular shoreline; Waikaumalo Park with its scenic stream and tropical plants; and at several beautiful waterfalls, one of which has amazing botanical gardens. A delightful picnic lunch will be served at one of these scenic areas. Your experienced guide will provide your small group with fascinating information about these beautiful places, the stories of the people on this land and the dramatic work of nature along this dynamic coast.
SPECIAL NOTES
Participants must be at least 8 years of age and able to walk short distances.
Bring sunscreen. Rain gear is provided when necessary.
Hilo Bay & Waterfall Kayaking Adventure
Venture out into the protected waters of Hilo Bay and kayak to the Wailuku River Waterfall on a guided kayaking safari.
YOUR KAYAKING SAFARI
An air-conditioned van will transport you from the ship to the kayak boarding area on a black-sand beach in Hilo . Here you will meet your guide, be fitted for a sea kayak and receive an orientation, safety gear and basic paddling instruction. Set off on Hilo Bay for an approximately 90-minute paddle, passing Coconut Island with views of Wailua Park Estuary and Wailuku Falls , where the 18-mile-long river runs its course and plummets into the bay.
SPECIAL NOTES
Tour includes kayaks and all kayaking equipment.
Wear a swimsuit under comfortable clothing. Sunscreen, camera and a hat are recommended. Bring a towel.
Itinerary is subject to change due to weather and water conditions.
Participants must not weigh more than 250 lbs. and should be in good physical condition. The tour is not recommended for those with back problems or those with heart conditions.
Participants under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age to participate is 10 years.
Hawaiian Eco-Safari
Discover some of the Big Island 's hidden treasures - learn about the island's native plants, view the impressive lava tree molds at Lava Tree Park , see endangered species in the only rain forest zoo in the United States , and relax in a natural geothermal pool.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Panaewa Rain Forest Zoo - The only rain forest zoo in America is home to exhibits of rare Hawaiian birds, such as the Nene Goose and Hawaiian Hawk, as well as other examples of non-native rain forest animals. Namaste, the white tiger is always a crowd favorite.
Mauna Loa Mac Nut Center Arboretum – The arboretum at Mauna Loa Mac Nut Visitors' Center provides an excellent opportunity to view many of the trees and plants that have played an important part in Hawaiian history. Breadfruit trees, pineapples, bananas, ginger, orchids, and more can be seen growing in the arboretum.
Lava Tree Park - The park's natural wonders were created when hot lava flows overran an ohia tree forest. During your 20-minute tour, your guide points out the awesome structures created by this meeting of forest and lava flow, including giant tree molds formed by cooling lava.
Ahalunui Park - Relax in a large hot pool fed by geothermal springs. Water temperature can exceed 90 F/32 C.
SHOPPING
Souvenirs are available for purchase at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center and the Panaewa Rain Forest Zoo Gift Shop.
LUNCH
Lunch will be served picnic style at Ahalanui Park and includes sandwiches, fresh fruit, Maui chips and macadamia nuts, bottled water and fruit juice.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Join your knowledgeable guide, a naturalist, and board your 14-passenger van on this unique eco-adventure.
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour has a limited capacity.
Wear your bathing suit under your clothes and bring a towel, water shoes, sun protection, sunglasses and a hat.
Circle Of Fire Helicopter Tour
A thrilling helicopter flight will take you over the Earth's most geologically active environment in the world – the Kilauea Volcano.
YOUR HELICOPTER FLIGHT
Board a helicopter for a remarkable flightseeing tour emphasizing the most current areas of volcanic activity on Kilauea Volcano. Fly over Kilauea's most recent eruption sites and follow the surface activity down to the devastated village of Kalapana . View lava flows, the Puna Forest , and black-sand beaches formed of lava that has been cooled by water and ground smooth like glass by the sea.
SPECIAL NOTES
Approximate flight time is 45 minutes.
Due to weight and balance limitations, passengers weighing 250 lbs. or more must pay a surcharge.
Passengers over 250 lbs. must request two (2) tickets for themselves when ordering tickets for this tour. Once onboard, contact the Tour Office and your account will be adjusted to reflect the cost of the surcharge only.
This tour is non-refundable.
Hilo By Private Vehicle - Car Class
A private vehicle is the perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately, or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Vehicles with an English-speaking driver/guide combination are offered on a half-day (four hours; morning or afternoon) or full-day (eight hours) basis. No deviations to duration, departure or return time can be made. This is a private arrangement; those accompanying you are the family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are of extremely limited availability; reserve early.
These tours are ordered per vehicle. One person in your party places the order for the vehicle; the entire cost of the vehicle is charged to that person's shipboard account and cannot be divided among the party. Once onboard, you will receive a letter requesting details about your travel plans. Please complete this information and return it to the Tour Office as soon as possible.
Passengers who wish to visit Volcanoes National Park are advised that the park will assess an entry fee upon arrival - passes are not accepted.
ITO-71/72 - Half Day with Driver/Guide (4 hours) One to three (1-3) passengers (Maximum capacity requires three people in the back seat)
$450 per vehicle
ITO-73 - Full Day with Driver/Guide (8 hours) One to three (1-3) passengers (Maximum capacity requires three people in the back seat)
$799 per vehicle
Please be sure to request this tour by indicating the number of vehicles you wish to have - not the number of passengers.
SPECIAL NOTES
* All private vehicle bookings are non-refundable.
* Actual vehicle type may vary depending on final number of passengers and availability.
* Visiting more than one site often requires a full day.
* Vehicles are air-conditioned and are provided with a driver/guide.
PRIVATE VEHICLE BOOKINGS DO NOT INCLUDE:
* Entrance fees
* Meals, gratuities and refreshments
Hilo By Private Vehicle - Van Class
A private vehicle is the perfect solution for passengers who wish to tour privately or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Vehicles with an English-speaking driver/guide combination are offered on a half-day (four hours; morning or afternoon) or full-day (eight hours) basis. No deviations to duration, departure or return time can be made. This is a private arrangement; those accompanying you are the family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are of extremely limited availability; reserve early.
These tours are ordered per vehicle. One person in your party places the order for the vehicle; the entire cost of the vehicle is charged to that person's shipboard account and cannot be divided among the party. Once onboard, you will receive a letter requesting details about your travel plans. Please complete this information and return it to the Tour Office as soon as possible.
Passengers who wish to visit Volcanoes National Park are advised that the park will assess an entry fee upon arrival - passes are not accepted.
ITO-81/82 - Half Day with Driver/Guide (4 hours) One to ten (1-10) passengers maximum
$499 per vehicle
ITO-83 - Full Day with Driver/Guide (8 hours) One to ten (1-10) passengers maximum
$849 per vehicle
Please be sure to request this tour by indicating the number of vehicles you wish to have - not the number of passengers.
SPECIAL NOTES
* All private vehicle bookings are non-refundable.
* Actual vehicle type may vary depending on final number of passengers and availability.
* Visiting more than one site often requires a full day.
* Vehicles are air-conditioned and are provided with a driver/guide.
PRIVATE VEHICLE BOOKINGS DO NOT INCLUDE:
* Entrance fees
* Meals, gratuities and refreshments
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