Honolulu is the beating heart and state capital of Hawaii, situated on the third largest island of the Pacific Archipelago. An island of contrasts, Oahu lures visitors with its pristine beaches, rugged coastlines, turquoise waters, volcanic landscapes, world-renowned surf, rich cultural heritage and intriguing – at times dark – history. An eternal summer and the island’s genuine Aloha makes Honolulu the idea cruise destination year-round.

Kahului is located in Central Maui and serves as one of the main gateways for those visiting this island. Kahului’s ideal location allows visitors to explore some of the most acclaimed attractions of the island such as Iao Valley State Park, a stunning 4,000-acre area of tropical forest with incredible panoramic views and home of the iconic Iao Needle.

Kailua-Kona, famous for its coffee farms, rugged coastline and historic landmarks straddles the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. The village was once the retreat for Hawaiian royalty, today welcoming hordes of cruise visitors with its staggering natural beauty, watersports and architectural heritage. A must-see landmark is the beautiful former royal vacation home Hulihee Palace, which is the perfect place in Kailua Bay to watch the sunset.

Kauai is the oldest and northernmost island of Hawaii. The affectionally nicknamed ‘Garden Island’ for best-known for its luscious, centuries-old rainforests, sharp mountain spires, staggered cliffs and spectacular waterfalls, some of which are only accessible by air or sea. Nawiliwili is a port village southeast of Kauai and serves as the cruise gateway to the island.

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Rustic and rugged, Haines is a typical Alaskan small town. Its residents embrace its quiet, slow-paced way of life, and visitors are drawn to its breathtaking natural landscapes each year. A bird-watcher’s paradise, Haines is also home to the world’s largest concentration of bald eagles, who flock to the area each autumn. To immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area, explore the outdoors on one of the many hiking trails.

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Ketchikan is a small fishing town in southeast Alaska known as the “salmon capital of the world.” All five species of native Pacific salmon can be found here, and visitors won’t want to pass up the opportunity to dine on fresh-caught fish, crab and oysters in one of its many restaurants. The area also boasts a rich cultural history of Alaska Natives, housing the world’s largest collection of totem poles and the opportunity to learn about local tribes at the Totem Heritage Center. Adventurous travelers will relish the opportunity to make an excursion into the rugged Alaskan wilderness by land, by sea or by air.