Overview of Norwegian 7-Day Hawaii Cruise Excursions
This video ranks the five most exciting shore excursions available on Norwegian Cruise Line's seven-day round-trip helicopter tours and land-based adventures across the Hawaiian islands. The creator draws from official NCL excursion videos and real experience to help cruisers decide which activities deliver the most memorable moments. The itinerary spans multiple islands—Kauai, Maui, the Big Island, and Oahu—each offering distinct ecosystems and cultural experiences, from volcanic landscapes to lush coastlines.
Whether you're a first-time cruise passenger or a seasoned traveler, these excursions suit families, adventure seekers, and those wanting to balance activity with relaxation. The video breaks down what you'll actually see and do, helping you allocate your budget wisely and book high-demand tours before spots fill up—which they do quickly on popular cruise dates.
Key Moments
Top Five Excursion Highlights
- Mokihana Helicopter Tour on Kauai—aerial views of Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali coastline, and the island's oldest, most naturally beautiful terrain with sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs
- Road to Hana on Maui—coastal driving tour with stops at a black sand beach featuring inlet caves, available as either a standard bus tour or deluxe limo van experience
- Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island—exploration of lava tubes, volcanic craters, and a crater that erupted as recently as 1959, plus a museum visit
- Big Island Snorkel—two to two-and-a-half hours of ocean exploration including snorkeling, diving, and paddle boarding, with breakfast and lunch included
- Luau Kalamaku on Kauai—traditional Hawaiian meal featuring roasted pig, followed by fire dancing and live music performances
- Bonus: Atlantis Submarine in Kona—descent to just over 100 feet to view ocean life through portholes, though sightings are unpredictable
What to Know Before Booking Your Excursion
- Check the official Norwegian Cruise Line website for your specific sailing date; excursion details, activity levels, age/height restrictions, and meal inclusions are listed there
- For deeper information, search for excursions by name plus "NCL" or "Norwegian" on Google to find detailed videos, videos showing exact routes and what you'll see
- The Road to Hana is notorious for being physically exhausting to drive yourself; taking the organized tour lets you relax and enjoy the views instead
- Snorkeling and water excursions include meals, making them good value; budget extra for optional add-ons like the plantation train tour before the luau
- Book high-demand excursions—especially the helicopter tour—early, as popular tours fill quickly on seven-day sailings
- The volcano excursion is best for those with moderate fitness; the helicopter tour and snorkel are suitable for most ages and abilities
Frequently Asked Questions About These Hawaii Cruise Excursions
Which excursion is ranked number one and why?
The Mokihana helicopter tour on Kauai is the top pick because Kauai is the oldest island in the chain, resulting in the most naturally beautiful terrain with sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and landscapes the younger islands lack. From the air, you see it all—Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali coastline, and natural beauty impossible to experience from sea level.
What is included in the Big Island snorkel excursion?
Breakfast and lunch are included, and you get approximately two to two-and-a-half hours to explore the ocean. Activities include snorkeling, diving, and paddle boarding, making it an especially fun excursion for families.
Is the Atlantis submarine worth booking?
The video rates it as an honorable mention rather than a top-five choice because what you see is unpredictable. You board a ferry to the submarine, descend to just over 100 feet, and look through portholes, but marine life sightings vary significantly. It's interesting but potentially underwhelming depending on the day.
Can I drive the Road to Hana myself instead of taking the tour?
While possible, the video strongly advises against it—the road is physically exhausting to drive, and you won't be able to enjoy the views. The organized tour (available in standard bus or deluxe limo van options) lets you relax and appreciate the beautiful ocean views and coastline.
How do I find detailed information about specific excursions?
Visit the Norwegian Cruise Line website and navigate to your sailing's "Things to Do" or "Excursions" section. For deeper details—including videos showing the route and what you'll see—search for the excursion name plus "NCL" or "Norwegian" on Google. Many excursions have official videos that show the experience in advance.
