Port Rating:

We took the Hilo Bay & Waterfall Kayaking Adventure.

We found that it did not live up the the expectations created by the description on the Princess web site. We spent most of the time Kayaking on the open waters of the bay. The waterfalls, if that is what you want to call them, consisted of 3 side by side falls that seemed to be no more than 40 feet tall as opposed to the giants that are pictured.

The black sand beach that was described could hardly be rated as a sight to see. It was very small and seemed more like a boat launch than a beach.

Port Rating:

We took the advice of a previous cruiser and walked a few blocks inland from the pier and caught the A express bus. We got off at Pearl Harbor and walked to the visitor center and purchased tickets ($24 each) for the USS Missouri. We chose to look around ourselves instead of a guided tour.

The bus ride was $4 round trip from near the pier.

You could also go to the Arizona Memorial but make sure you get there early. It's free but first come first served. We had done this in the past and felt we should leave the Arizona for those who have not.

There were many small shops and outdoor vendors near the pier and we found most of the things that we wanted at reasonable prices.

Port Rating:

Wow. It was worth every penny that we paid and would do it again if we had the opportunity.

We also took the free shuttle to Hilo Hatties for some fill in souvenirs. They had a great selection. But, watch what you buy. Some of the small things were a great bargain. Some of the bigger things were a little pricey.

We found the Hawaiian shirts were high, better bargains were to be had from smaller shops and street vendors.

Port Rating:

I counted 6 complete breaches, including one double breach (two whales side by side at the same time).