How to Take a Ferry Between Hawaiian Islands: Easy Steps for Island Hopping

When I want to see more than one of the Hawaii islands, I always think of island hopping by ferry. The only regular passenger ferry in Hawaii runs between Maui and Lanai. This ferry lets travelers like me enjoy the beauty of two main islands in one trip.

This short ride across the ʻAuʻau Channel gives me stunning ocean views. If I’m lucky, I might spot dolphins or even whales along the way.

I learned quickly that ferries don’t run between all the Hawaiian Islands. Only this main route exists for visitors who want to travel by sea instead of flying.

The ferry leaves from Maʻalaea Harbor on Maui and arrives at Manele Harbor on Lanai. This offers a unique way to see more of Hawaii without needing to fly.

If you want to plan your trip, check out this guide on how to travel between islands in Hawaii by ferry.

Overview of Inter-Island Transportation

When I plan island hopping in Hawaii, I have a few main ways to travel. Each method has pros and cons based on my time, budget, and what I want to do.

Ferry Services

I can take a ferry between some islands, but options are limited. The main ferry route is the Maui-Lanai Passenger Ferry. It runs between Maui and Lanai.

The trip lasts about 45 minutes and costs around $30 one-way. I like this choice if I want to avoid flying and enjoy the ocean.

Ferries do not go to every island. There is no regular ferry between Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island. The Maui-Lanai ferry is the only reliable public ferry for most travelers.

Ferry rides are scenic, and I sometimes see dolphins or whales during the right season. With fewer routes, ferries work best for travel between Maui, Lanai, and sometimes Molokai.

Commercial Flights

Most of my island hopping is by plane. Hawaiian Airlines and Mokulele Airlines are the main carriers for travel between Hawaiian islands.

Flights run often, take less than an hour, and connect all the main islands—Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. Flying is usually the fastest and easiest way to island hop.

Prices often start below $50 one way if I book early or find deals. There are many flights every day, so I can choose a time that works for me.

Airports are small and simple. I arrive early for security, but inter-island flights are less stressful than mainland flights.

Cruises

I can also visit several islands by booking a cruise. Hawaii cruises usually last about a week.

I sleep on the ship, and it takes me to different islands each day. The cruise stops at ports so I can explore for a few hours.

Cruises cost more than flying or taking the ferry, but meals and a place to sleep are included. For some travelers, this is the easiest way to see all the main islands.

Cruise schedules don’t offer much freedom if I want to spend several days on one island. Cruises can be convenient for a relaxed, all-in-one island-hopping trip.

Private and Charter Boats

If I want more flexibility, I might use a private or charter boat. These are rare and usually cost a lot.

Charters offer custom trips, sometimes with fishing, snorkeling, or sightseeing. Private boats let me set my own schedule and route, but I need to check for permits, weather, and safety rules.

Not all boat companies offer trips between islands, and ocean conditions can be rough. These trips are best for travelers with a big budget or those seeking a special island hopping in Hawaii experience.

For most people, regular ferries or flights are more practical.

Ferry Routes Between the Hawaiian Islands

Taking a ferry is a special way to see Hawaii from the water. Some routes offer great views, but not all islands are linked by passenger ferries.

Maui to Lanai

The main passenger ferry in Hawaii runs between Maui and Lanai. I can take the Maui-Lanai Ferry for a 45-minute ride across the ʻAuʻau Channel.

The boat leaves from Ma’alaea Harbor on Maui and arrives at Manele Harbor on Lanai. This route is practical and easy, since it’s the only regular ferry still running between the main islands.

I recommend making reservations, especially during busy times. The ferry has several trips each day.

On board, I can sit inside or outside and enjoy the views. In winter, I might spot whales or dolphins.

This ferry is just for passengers. I can bring bags, but not cars or large luggage.

Maui to Lanai Ferry Details

Potential Molokai Connections

Ferry service between Maui and Molokai used to exist. The Molokai Princess ferry stopped running, so there is no regular passenger ferry to Molokai now.

Currently, I cannot use a public ferry from Maui or any other island to reach Molokai. Sometimes, private boats or charters are available, but these are expensive and not reliable for most travelers.

The Hawaii Superferry, which once linked several islands, shut down years ago.

If I want to visit Molokai, I need to fly. Flying between islands is the fastest and most reliable way.

Ferry Limitations and Alternatives

Today, ferries are not a common way to travel between the Hawaiian Islands. The only current passenger ferry runs between Maui and Lanai.

There are no ferries connecting Maui to Moloka’i or other main islands like Oahu, Kauai, or the Big Island. To visit other islands, I need to book a flight.

Inter-island flights are frequent and usually take less than an hour. Ferries once played a bigger role, but services like the Superferry shut down due to different issues.

Key points:

• Only Maui-Lanai ferry is available
• No car ferries or public routes to Molokai
• Air travel is best for most island hops in Hawaii

Major Islands: Destinations and Attractions

Hawaii’s main islands each offer something special, from busy cities to wild landscapes. Every stop is different, with its own must-see places and things to do.

Oahu Highlights

Oahu is famous for its mix of history and beaches. My favorite place is Waikiki Beach, where I can swim, surf, or relax in the sun.

At night, Waikiki is busy with shops, restaurants, and music. For history, I visit Pearl Harbor to see the memorials and museums.

The USS Arizona Memorial is moving and full of World War II history. Hiking Diamond Head gives me a great view of the city and ocean.

I also like driving to the North Shore to watch surfers ride big waves. Oahu has Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, which is a common starting point for visitors.

Exploring Maui

Maui is known for its natural beauty. The Road to Hana is a scenic drive with waterfalls, rainforests, and hidden beaches.

There are many lookouts and trails to stop at along the way. Haleakala National Park is another highlight.

I like waking up early to see the sunrise from the crater. It’s cold, but the view is worth it.

At higher elevations, I see rare plants and sometimes native birds. On the west side, Lahaina was a historic town, and while it’s recovering, the beaches are still nice.

The main airport is Kahului Airport, which has many flights to and from other islands. Ferries also connect Maui to Lanai, making island-hopping easy between those two islands.

More info about this ferry route is on thehawaiivacationguide.com.

Discovering Kauai

Kauai is the greenest island I’ve visited. It is called the “Garden Isle” for a reason.

The Na Pali Coast, with its steep cliffs and blue ocean, looks best from a hike or a boat tour. Wailua Falls and Waimea Canyon are breathtaking and great for photos.

This island is less crowded, so it’s perfect for peace and quiet. Lihue Airport is the main way to get here.

I like exploring small towns like Hanalei for shopping and fresh food. Kauai’s weather changes a lot, so I pack rain gear, especially for mountain hikes.

Big Island Adventures

The Big Island, or Hawaii Island, is the largest and most diverse. I love Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where I can see active volcanoes, walk through lava tubes, and drive across old lava fields.

There are two main airports: Kona International on the west and Hilo International on the east. Kona is sunny and dry, with coffee farms and great snorkeling.

Hilo is wetter and tropical, with gardens and waterfalls. The island is big, so I recommend renting a car.

I like to visit black sand beaches and watch for sea turtles. The mix of volcanoes and beaches gives me plenty to do.

How to Book Your Ferry or Alternative Transport

Getting from one Hawaiian island to another takes some planning. I’ve compared ferries, flights, and cruise ships so you can choose the smartest and most affordable way to travel in Hawaii.

Buying Ferry Tickets

The only regular ferry service connects Maui and Lanai. I always check the schedule and buy tickets with Expeditions Lanai, the official ferry operator.

Boats make the 45-minute trip several times a day. I like to buy my ferry tickets online in advance, especially during busy seasons or holidays.

This way, I’m sure to get a seat. Walk-up tickets might be available, but there’s no guarantee.

Getting stuck waiting would be frustrating. Here’s what I do:

• Visit the operator’s website to pick a date and departure time.
• Enter my name, the number of passengers, and payment details.
• Print my tickets or save them on my phone in case cell signal is poor at the dock.

If I’m traveling with a group, I book early because ferries can fill up fast. The Hawaii Vacation Guide has the latest updates on departure points, prices, and what to expect.

Flight Reservations and Comparison

If I want to visit islands no ferry goes to, like Oahu, Kauai, or the Big Island, I book a flight. Inter-island flights only take 20 to 60 minutes.

I use tools like Skyscanner to compare cheap flights and find the best deals. Here’s how I make sure I get the best fare:

• I start my search early. Prices for Hawaii travel can change fast.
• I compare multiple sites like Skyscanner, Kayak, or Google Flights.
• I look at both direct and connecting flights to see if I can save money.
• I check for early morning or late-night flights, which are sometimes cheaper.

Booking direct with Hawaiian Airlines or Southwest often gives me more options to change or cancel. Sometimes, a travel guide or blog has tips on deals or which airports are quicker and cheaper.

Cruise Ship Booking Options

For a different kind of island hopping, I consider booking a cruise. Some cruises let me visit several islands in one trip without worrying about flights or ferries.

I compare cruise lines online to check which ones stop at Maui, Oahu, Big Island, and Kauai. I look at the itinerary, number of nights, and what’s included in the fare.

Some large boats even have Hawaii travel packages. Here are a few things I pay attention to:

• The total cost, including fees and excursions
• Whether meals and entertainment are part of the price
• If the ship spends enough time at each island for what I want to see

Booking early usually gets me the cheapest cabins. I double-check for discounts or special offers before I decide.

I make sure to read customer reviews to avoid surprises.

Air Travel and Island Hopping by Plane

Flying between the Hawaiian islands is fast and easy. With several airlines and plenty of flights each day, I can visit more than one island, even if I’m short on time.

Major Inter-Island Airlines

I usually choose from three main airlines for inter-island flights: Hawaiian Airlines, Mokulele Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Hawaiian Airlines is the biggest and offers the most daily flights between all the major islands. They fly between Oahu (HNL – Daniel K. Inouye Airport), Maui (OGG), Kauai (LIH), and the Big Island (KOA, ITO).

Flights are short, usually 30 to 50 minutes. Larger planes mean more available seats.

Mokulele Airlines is the smallest carrier for inter-island travel. They fly smaller planes, which can land at smaller airports.

This lets me visit less crowded spots. Mokulele’s prices are often low for certain routes.

Their planes have only a handful of seats, which can make the ride feel more personal. Southwest Airlines also offers cheap prices and free checked bags for two items.

They have daily flights, mainly on bigger islands. Southwest flights can be a good choice if I already have points or travel credits.

For more details about these choices and current prices, I check options for all 7 islands.

Tips for Booking Affordable Flights

I always compare prices between airlines because fares change a lot. The cheapest way to travel is usually to book as far ahead as I can, especially for popular travel times.

Weekdays are often less expensive than weekends. I use these tips when searching for cheap tickets:

• Book Early: The best deals sell out first.
• Check Multiple Airlines: Prices for the same route can be different.
• Travel Light: Mokulele Airlines charges for checked bags. Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines usually allow a carry-on.

I sign up for airline emails since they sometimes send out special offers. If I’m flexible about the time of day, I can often find better deals.

For a full list of airport codes and up-to-date flight times, I look up schedules directly with the airlines. Some helpful codes are HNL for Honolulu, OGG for Maui, KOA for Kona, and LIH for Kauai.

Navigating Airports in Hawaii

Most inter-island flights leave from the main airports: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Oahu, Kahului Airport (OGG) in Maui, Lihue Airport (LIH) in Kauai, and Kona International Airport (KOA) or Hilo International Airport (ITO) on the Big Island.

Airports in Hawaii are usually smaller and easier to get through than mainland airports. I try to arrive about 90 minutes before my flight.

Security (TSA) lines are often shorter, but during busy seasons, they can still get long. After I clear TSA, I watch for my gate and see what food is available near the waiting areas.

Local snacks and friendly airport staff help make the wait easier. Since flights are short, there’s not much time to relax on board, so I like to have everything ready before boarding.

For details about inter-island travel, I check guides like this one on traveling between Hawaiian islands.

Cruising Between Islands

Taking a cruise between Hawaiian Islands lets me visit several islands easily. I can enjoy plenty of comfort and activities on board.

Each cruise offers a unique journey. I experience famous sights, guided excursions, and daily entertainment without booking separate flights or hotels.

Popular Cruise Lines and Routes

When I think about cruising between Hawaii’s islands, several cruise lines come to mind. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America stands out since it’s the only cruise ship based in Hawaii year-round.

I can find sailings almost any week. Most routes start and finish in Honolulu on Oahu, visiting Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island along the way.

Other lines, like Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, and Holland America, offer Hawaiian itineraries, but these usually begin outside Hawaii, from places like California or Vancouver. Those trips often include more days at sea.

For direct inter-island cruises, the Pride of America is the top choice.

Here’s a quick table for comparison:

Multi-Island and Guided Cruise Tours

For a guided experience, I look for island hopping tours or guided day trips built into a multi-island cruise. Many cruises like the Pride of America include daily shore excursions to places like the Road to Hana on Maui or Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island.

On guided tours, knowledgeable guides help me see top attractions and hidden gems. Some tours are included in the cruise fare, while others cost extra.

Cruise lines also partner with local companies for specialized experiences, such as snorkeling in Kona or visiting Pearl Harbor in Oahu. Island hopping tours make it easy since I don’t need to arrange my own travel between islands.

I can maximize my time sightseeing instead of figuring out how to get from place to place.

Onboard Experience and Activities

While cruising between the islands, I enjoy more than just transportation. Cruise ships become floating resorts, with pools, restaurants, live shows, kids’ clubs, and fitness centers right on board.

The Pride of America has multiple dining options, themed pools, and Hawaiian cultural activities like luau nights and hula lessons. Each day can start with breakfast on deck, then maybe a swim or a cooking demonstration.

At night, there’s local music, comedy shows, or movies under the stars. There’s something for all ages, whether I’m traveling solo, with a partner, or with my family.

Between the islands, I relax and take in the ocean views. The ship gives me a home base, so I don’t have to pack and unpack with each island stop.

I like that I get the excitement of travel and the comfort of a hotel all in one.

Planning Your Hawaii Island Hopping Itinerary

Figuring out the best way to travel between islands in Hawaii can affect your vacation. I look at timing, sample island hopping plans, and tips that families will appreciate, so you can get the most out of your Hawaii itinerary.

Best Time to Travel

I always check the seasons when planning my trip. Summer (June to August) is warm, but flights and ferries fill up fast.

Winter (December to February) brings bigger crowds and higher prices, especially around holidays. Spring and fall are my favorite times to visit because the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists.

Ferry rides between Maui and Lanai are smoother during these months, since the winds aren’t as strong. When I schedule travel between islands, I try to book early morning or midday.

That way, I can enjoy more daytime at my next stop and avoid last-minute rushes.

Sample Multi-Island Itineraries

A simple way to plan a Hawaii itinerary is by combining two or three islands. Here’s a sample plan:

Flying is the main way to travel between most islands, but I like to use the Maui-to-Lanai ferry for a scenic change. If I have more time, I add Kauai or the Big Island to my list.

This gives me a good mix of beaches, history, and natural wonders.

Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas

I think about what will keep the whole family happy when island hopping. Sticking to nearby islands like Maui and Lanai means less time in transit and more time having fun together.

On Maui, there are lots of kid-friendly beaches and easy hikes. The ferry to Lanai is only about 45 minutes, which is manageable for young children.

Once in Lanai, I explore tide pools and enjoy calm, quiet beaches. When planning my Hawaii itinerary, I also look for hotels or rentals with kitchenettes, so we can eat favorite meals and save money.

Keeping travel days light and mixing in beach play, local parks, and animal encounters makes the trip better for everyone. I always book ferries and hotels ahead if traveling during school breaks since things fill up fast.

Transportation Options on Each Island

Getting around each Hawaiian island feels different. You can choose from rental cars, buses, ride-shares, taxis, and shuttles.

Your options depend on the island and your needs.

Rental Cars and Public Bus Systems

When I land on any of the main islands, I find rental cars at most airports. Renting a car gives me the freedom to explore at my own pace.

Rates go up during busy seasons, so I book early.

Each island runs its own public bus system. Oahu offers TheBus, which covers a large area and costs less than other options.

The Big Island, Maui, and Kauai also have bus routes. However, their schedules are less frequent and routes are limited outside big towns.

Most buses let me bring small bags, but I can’t take large luggage or surfboards.

Ride-Sharing and Taxis

I use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft on Oahu. On Maui and Kauai, I can use them in main towns and at airports, but drivers are harder to find in rural areas or late at night.

Taxis wait by airports, hotels, and major tourist spots.

Ride-shares and taxis usually cost more than public buses, especially for longer trips. If I travel with a group or have luggage, these options work well.

Sometimes I wait longer for a ride during busy hours or when I am far from a city.

Airport Transfers and Shuttles

Shuttle buses connect airports and popular hotels on all the main islands. When I have lots of luggage or arrive late, I book a shuttle before my trip to save time.

Shared shuttles cost less but take longer because they make more stops.

Some hotels run their own airport transfers for guests. Private shuttles or vans are good for families or small groups.

I see shuttle desks at the airport exit or book them online before my flight. These services help me reach my hotel without worrying about parking or directions.

Experiencing Hawaii’s Marine Life and Activities

Exploring Hawaii by ferry lets me see more than just new islands. I connect with nature and try fun activities, from snorkeling with fish to watching dolphins jump next to the boat.

Snorkeling and Diving Tours

Snorkeling is one of my favorite things to do in Hawaii. I find tours near popular ferry stops, especially in Maui and Lanai.

The clear blue water is home to coral reefs, green sea turtles (honu), and colorful fish like the yellow tang.

Most snorkeling tours give me all the gear I need, such as fins, masks, and snorkels. If I want to dive deeper, I can join guided diving trips.

These tours often take me to quiet spots that are hard to reach on my own.

Early morning is the best time for snorkeling because the ocean is calm and the sun shines through the water. Some tours combine ferry and snorkeling tickets, so I can plan a full day in advance.

I always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the ocean and marine life.

Wildlife Watching Cruises

From the deck of a ferry, I often spot turtles, flying fish, and sometimes dolphins. During winter, I might see humpback whales between December and April.

Seeing these huge animals swim near the boat excites me.

Wildlife cruises fill up fast, so I reserve my spot early. Some companies offer smaller group tours so everyone can see the animals.

I enjoy listening to guides share facts about Hawaiian marine life.

When I go on these cruises, binoculars help me spot animals. Many tours stop the boat if the crew sees dolphins or whales.

These peaceful rides on the open sea are always memorable.

Sustainable Marine Travel Tips

I want to protect Hawaii’s unique environments while exploring. Here are some tips I follow:

• Wear only reef-safe sunscreen to keep coral reefs healthy.
• Never touch or feed wild animals like turtles, dolphins, or fish.
• Pick up all trash and leave nothing behind after snorkeling or cruising.
• Choose tours that support eco-friendly practices and local conservation.

Even small actions—like skipping single-use plastic—help when many people do them.

Lesser-Known Islands and Access Challenges

Some Hawaiian islands are not as easy to visit as others. Special rules and limited transportation make trips to these places more complicated.

Visiting Molokai and Lanai

Molokai and Lanai offer a quieter side of Hawaii. These islands have smaller towns and fewer resorts than Oahu or Maui.

Large ferries between the main Hawaiian islands no longer run because of high costs and damage to ocean life. One ferry route still operates.

I take the Expeditions Maui-Lanai Passenger Ferry for a 45-minute trip between Maui and Lanai. This is the only official passenger ferry still running.

The boat leaves from Ma’alaea Harbor on Maui and arrives at Manele Harbor on Lanai.

I can’t reach Molokai by ferry from other islands anymore. To get to Molokai, I fly on a small plane from Oahu or Maui.

Because it is hard to reach, Molokai has fewer crowds, more local culture, and lots of natural beauty.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Remote Islands: Kahoolawe and Niihau

Kahoolawe and Niihau are two of the most private islands in Hawaii. Visitors cannot access these islands like the others.

Kahoolawe does not allow public entry because of safety concerns. The military once used the island for bomb practice, and unexploded devices may still be present.

Only certain volunteer groups, scientists, or people on special restoration missions can land here, and they must get advance permission. The island has no tourist services, hotels, or regular tours.

Niihau, also called the “Forbidden Island,” is privately owned. Mostly Native Hawaiians and the Robinson family live there.

General visitors cannot go to Niihau. Rarely, some day tours for hunting or special cultural trips happen, but they are expensive and have strict rules.

No public ferries go to either Kahoolawe or Niihau. Even private boat rides need special permission, so access to both islands is highly restricted.