Cruise Ship Shore Excursion of Historic Kona

Exploring the historic and cultural treasures of Kona from the comfort of a cruise ship shore excursion is an enticing prospect for many travelers. We’ll dive into the key highlights of this intimate, small-group tour that’s tailored exclusively for Norwegian Cruise Line passengers. From the sacred Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park to the vibrant St. Benedict’s Painted Church, this excursion promises to immerse you in the rich heritage of the region. Join us as we uncover the stories behind these captivating sites and gain a deeper appreciation for the Hawaiian way of life.

Key Points

• This half-day tour provides an exclusive cultural experience for Norwegian Cruise Line Pride of America passengers visiting the Big Island.
• The tour includes visits to Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, St. Benedict’s Painted Church, and the Royal Kona Coffee Center.
• Guides offer comprehensive insights into Kona’s history and cultural heritage, including the significance of the archaeological sites.
• Transportation and port pickup/drop-off are included, providing a seamless experience for cruise ship passengers.
• While the tour is generally well-received, some feedback indicates a rushed experience at certain sites and inconsistent guide quality.

Tour Overview

The Cruise Ship Shore Excursion of Historic Kona is a half-day tour that takes travelers on an exploration of the Big Island’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour, exclusive to Norwegian Cruise Line Pride of America passengers, can accommodate up to 15 travelers and is priced from $79 per person.

With an average rating of 3.9/5 based on 30 reviews, the tour offers a mix of historic sites, scenic views, and cultural insights.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a professional guide, and port pickup and drop-off.

Highlights of the Itinerary

This tour’s highlights include a visit to the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a sacred sanctuary for ancient Hawaiian lawbreakers. We’ll then explore the St. Benedict’s Painted Church, featuring captivating three-dimensional biblical paintings. Finally, we’ll stop at the Royal Kona Coffee Center to learn about the renowned Kona coffee processing and enjoy complimentary samples.

Site	Duration	Admission
Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park	15 minutes	Free
St. Benedict’s Painted Church	20 minutes	Free
Royal Kona Coffee Center	20 minutes	Free

This well-paced itinerary offers a comprehensive introduction to Kona’s rich history and culture. Let’s dive in and discover the highlights of this shore excursion.

Key Stops and Attractions

Kicking off the tour, we’ll first visit the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, a serene 420-acre sanctuary steeped in ancient Hawaiian history.

Here, we’ll learn about the significance of this "place of refuge" and explore its archaeological sites.

Next, we’ll venture to the quaint St. Benedict’s Painted Church, where we’ll marvel at the vivid biblical murals covering the interior walls.

Finally, we’ll stop by the Royal Kona Coffee Center to dive into the process of cultivating and roasting the world-renowned Kona coffee beans.

Along the way, our guide will share fascinating insights into the region’s cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Transportation

Along with the fascinating cultural and historical insights, this shore excursion provides a seamless and worry-free experience. The tour includes:

Included
Air-conditioned vehicle	Professional guide
Port pickup and drop-off	Souvenirs
Gratuities	Food and drinks

Transportation is complimentary, with convenient port pickup and drop-off, ensuring a stress-free return to your cruise ship. This all-inclusive package allows you to fully learn about the rich heritage of Kona without any logistical concerns.

Tour Experience and Feedback

Travelers have provided a mix of positive and negative feedback on this shore excursion.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and humor, with highlights like Puuhonua o Honaunau and St. Benedict’s Church. Scenic views and cultural insights are well-received.

However, some feel the tour is rushed, with insufficient time at key sites. Guide quality and commentary can be inconsistent. Visibility issues at certain locations, like the Captain Cook Memorial, have also been noted.

Historical and Cultural Context

To fully appreciate the significance of this shore excursion, it’s important to understand the historical and cultural context of the sites visited.

The Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park was a sanctuary where Hawaiians could seek refuge and absolution for breaking ancient laws known as kapu.

The three-dimensional biblical paintings at St. Benedict’s Painted Church reflect the island’s history of Christian missionary influence.

Exploring these sites deepens our understanding of Hawaii’s complex past and how it continues to shape the local culture today.

This enriching tour provides a window into Kona’s captivating history and traditions.

Accessibility and Confirmation

Although this shore excursion is suitable for most travelers, it isn’t wheelchair accessible. Participants should be able to walk short distances and navigate uneven terrain.

Confirmation of the tour booking will be provided at the time of purchase, unless the tour is booked within 2 days of the travel date. In that case, confirmation will be emailed closer to the departure time.

The historical context of ancient Hawaiian laws, known as kapu, is emphasized during the tour, providing valuable cultural insights.

If time permits, the guide may suggest visiting additional local attractions, such as the Kona Brewing Company.

Recommendations and Additional Visits

If time permits during the Cruise Ship Shore Excursion of Historic Kona, the guide may recommend visiting additional local attractions like the Kona Brewing Company.

This could be a great way to further immerse yourself in the island’s culture and cuisine.

Some other suggested stops include:

• Visiting the Kona Farmer’s Market to browse local produce, arts, and crafts
• Exploring the Hulihee Palace, the former vacation home of Hawaiian royalty
• Hiking the scenic Akaka Falls State Park to witness a stunning 442-foot waterfall

Tacking on these optional activities can help you make the most of your time on the Big Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

We recommend checking with the tour provider, as policies on outside food and drinks can vary. Many shore excursions have specific rules about what participants can bring. To ensure an enjoyable experience, it’s best to follow the tour’s guidelines.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour for a Longer Duration?

Unfortunately, based on the information provided, there doesn’t seem to be an option to upgrade this tour for a longer duration. The tour is fixed at approximately 3-4 hours, including driving time. We’d recommend checking with the tour operator if any extended or customized options are available.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Gear or Equipment?

We recommend bringing comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery and cultural sites during the tour. No special gear is required, just come prepared to explore and learn.

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides on Hawaiian History and Culture?

The tour guides are experienced in Hawaiian history and culture, often providing detailed insights into the significance of sites like the Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. They aim to give us a rich cultural understanding throughout the experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participating in the Tour?

We couldn’t find a minimum age requirement specified for this tour. However, it’s suitable for most travelers who can participate, though the itinerary may not be ideal for young children. It’s best to check with the tour operator.

The Sum Up

This Kona shore excursion offers a well-curated exploration of the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. It’s an excellent way for Norwegian Cruise Line passengers to enjoy the local sights and gain a deeper understanding of the island’s significance. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and key highlights, this tour provides a memorable and insightful experience during your time in Kona.