Aloha, Hawaii!

Well, we're here in Honolulu, getting ready for our 7-day cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (with help from Virgin Holidays).

We don't board the Pride of America until late this afternoon, so we'll take the opportunity to see something of Waikiki Beach first before we head out to see three of the other islands (Maui, The Big Island and Kauai).

We're staying at the uber-chic Honululu Modern hotel, with a great view of one end of Waikiki Beach, and we've also taken a nice series of photos of sunrise (as we were wide awake at Silly O'Clock with the 5-hour time difference from Florida).

Hope you enjoy the view...!

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InnerSea's New Hawaiian Voyager

InnerSea Discoveries’ 76-guest expedition vessel Wilderness Explorer begins active adventure cruising among the Hawaiian Islands in autumn 2013. The boat joins the line’s 36-guest upscale yacht Safari Explorer offering island explorations from the sea.

From November 2013 through April 2014, the Explorer will sail seven-night Adventure Bound Hawaii cruises between Oahu and the Big Island and reverse. The itinerary visits Ka’ena Point State Park, Wai’anae Harbor, Maui, Lana’i, Honomalino Bay, Opihihali and Kailua-Kona. Guests will also enjoy scenic cruising and searching for whales and dolphins in the wildlife-rich Humpback National Marine Sanctuary.

Highlights of the new itinerary include snorkeling at Molokini’s undersea volcanic crater, a night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta Rays, watching whales and dolphins and guided hikes exploring scenic areas on all four islands. Expert naturalists provide interpretation on guided excursions ashore and at sea.

The Explorer has a swim platform for easy access to water sports equipment and entry into the water. A specially built kayak launch platform comfortably launches four kayaks at once. Guests enjoy included watersports activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddle boarding, skiff explorations and swimming. Guests may also take a spin on the innovative human-powered watercraft powered by two peddlers and up to six paddlers.

On board, innovative meals are served buffet style to accommodate a flexible schedule of adventure activities. A wellness program includes a sauna, fitness equipment, complimentary yoga on deck and massages for a fee. Cabins feature a flatscreen TV/DVD player, iPod dock and eco-friendly bath amenities. In the lounge, guests will find a selection of games and a library of books and DVDs.

Cruise fares on the Explorer start at $2,495 based on double occupancy. 

For bookings, follow this link to our sponsors The Cruise Line Ltd, the UK's leading adventure-cruise specialists.

Time Spent at Sea has moved and can now be found at World of Cruising. You can follow World of Cruising on Twitter and Facebook for the very latest in cruise news.

If you haven't already, subscribe to the World of Cruising magazine today.