Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion: Volcanoes National Park Rainbow Falls

The Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion to Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls is a must-do for Norwegian Cruise Line passengers. With a half-day itinerary, travelers can explore the iconic 80-foot waterfall and the UNESCO-listed national park, home to the legendary Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes. Comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and souvenir photos ensure a hassle-free adventure amidst Hawaii’s breathtaking natural beauty. But the real question is – what secrets do these natural wonders hold?

Good To Know

• This excursion takes cruise ship passengers from Hilo Pier to explore Volcanoes National Park and see the Rainbow Falls waterfall.
• The tour includes transportation, a professional guide, and complimentary souvenir photos, with a duration of around 4.5 hours.
• Highlights of the tour include Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes, the Jaggar Museum, Halema’uma’u Crater, and the Thurston Lava Tube.
• The tour is exclusive to Norwegian Cruise Line passengers and has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
• Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the overall convenience of the excursion, though some note limited time at each stop.

Tour Overview

The Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion: Volcanoes National Park Rainbow Falls offers visitors a comprehensive tour of some of Hawaii’s most stunning natural wonders.

Rated 4.3/5 based on over 122 reviews, this excursion showcases the highlights of the Big Island, including the majestic Rainbow Falls and the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park.

Travelers will marvel at the diverse geological landscapes and witness the raw power of Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes.

With pickup and drop-off directly at the Hilo Pier, this tour provides a seamless and convenient way for cruise ship passengers to explore the island’s natural beauty.

Tour Details

This excursion departs at 8:30 am and returns at 1:00 pm, providing ample time to explore the highlights of the Big Island.

Travelers are transported in an air-conditioned vehicle with port pickup and drop-off at Hilo Pier. The tour accommodates up to 15 guests and is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Only Norwegian Cruise Line passengers can book this exclusive experience. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring light jackets, as the tour may involve traversing uneven terrain in the Volcanoes National Park.

Included Amenities

The Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion includes a suite of amenities to enhance the experience.

Travelers will enjoy:

1. Professional guide expertise to share insights into the region’s history, culture, and geology.
2. Food and beverages to fuel the journey, though snacks or a packed lunch are recommended due to limited stops.
3. Complimentary souvenir photos and keepsakes to commemorate the trip.
4. Gratuities for the guide and driver, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The tour also offers convenient port pickup and drop-off, as well as a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours prior to the excursion.

Customer Experiences

According to reviews, guides on the Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion are generally praised for their knowledge and engagement with travelers.

Participants often comment on the comfortable transportation and ease of pickup and drop-off. The tour is considered a good value compared to cruise ship offerings, allowing visitors to experience diverse volcanic attractions like lava tubes and steam vents.

However, some note limited time at each stop, and issues with food availability during the tour. A few travelers felt the guides were overly scripted or impersonal.

Recommendations

For the Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion, comfortable walking shoes and light jackets are advised.

Due to limited food stops, it’s recommended to bring snacks or lunch.

The tour may involve walking over uneven terrain, so travelers should exercise caution.

Exact departure times may vary based on cruise disembarkation, so it’s advisable to confirm details with the tour operator.

Some travelers expressed a desire for more time at specific locations, so those with particular interests may want to consider their priorities when booking.

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes
2. Pack light jackets or layers
3. Bring snacks or lunch
4. Expect possible changes in departure time

Exploring Rainbow Falls

Where does the majestic Rainbow Falls stand within the Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion?

After exploring the volcanic wonders of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, the tour makes its way to the Wailuku River State Park. Here, the 80-foot Rainbow Falls cascades over a lava cave, creating a stunning natural spectacle.

Visitors can admire the falls from an easily accessible viewpoint, marveling at the rainbow hues that often appear in the mist. The stop at Rainbow Falls provides a peaceful contrast to the earlier volcanic activity, allowing guests to connect with Hawaii’s lush, tropical environment.

The falls are a highlight of this comprehensive Hilo tour.

Discovering Volcanoes National Park

After exploring the stunning Rainbow Falls, the Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion takes visitors on a journey to the renowned Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, offering a unique glimpse into the dynamic geological forces that have shaped the Big Island.

The tour includes:

1. Visiting the Jaggar Museum, providing an educational overview of the park’s volcanic activity.
2. Witnessing the Halema’uma’u Crater, where visitors can observe the rising steam vents and smell the sulfur.
3. Exploring the Thurston Lava Tube, a fascinating underground cave formed by molten lava.
4. Stopping at the Kīlauea Iki Crater Overlook, affording panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.

What to Expect on the Tour

The Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion offers a well-rounded experience that takes guests on an engaging journey through the island’s natural wonders.

Travelers will explore the famous Rainbow Falls, marveling at the cascading waters and lush tropical foliage.

The tour then ventures into Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where they’ll witness the powerful Mauna Loa and Kilauea volcanoes.

Along the way, an expert guide provides insightful commentary, ensuring guests fully appreciate the geological significance of these landmarks.

Transportation is comfortable, and the tour’s small group size allows for personalized attention.

Whether seeking breathtaking views or deeper understanding, this excursion delivers an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own snacks on the tour. The tour itinerary indicates that food stops may be limited, so bringing extra snacks is recommended to ensure you have enough to eat during the excursion.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Excursion?

Yes, the tour includes restroom breaks at various stops along the way. Travelers will have the opportunity to use restrooms at Rainbow Falls, the Volcanoes National Park visitor center, and other designated locations during the excursion.

Can I Leave the Tour Group for Independent Exploration?

Travelers can usually leave the tour group for independent exploration, but should confirm guidelines with the guide beforehand. Some tours may have designated free time, while others require staying with the group for logistical reasons.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Stops?

Photography is generally allowed at all stops on the tour, though visitors should be mindful of any restrictions at specific locations. The tour guide can provide guidance on appropriate photography practices during the excursion.

How Accessible Are the Trails and Walkways?

The trails and walkways are generally wheelchair and stroller accessible, though some areas may have uneven terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as visitors may need to navigate through natural settings like forests and volcanic landscapes.

The Sum Up

The Hilo Cruise Ship Excursion to Volcanoes National Park and Rainbow Falls offers an exceptional opportunity for Norwegian Cruise Line passengers to enjoy Hawaii’s natural wonders. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and stunning sights, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure amidst the volcanic landscapes and cascading waterfalls of the island. It’s a must-do experience for those seeking to explore the beauty of Hilo during their cruise vacation.