Zaandam: 35-Night Cruise from San Diego - October 14, 2027

You'll have 9 hours hours to explore Hilo, Hawaii, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM - a solid full day ashore. That's enough for 2-3 attractions and a sit-down lunch without rushing. Tackle the most distant spot first, then work your way back toward the port. Ships dock close to downtown, making it possible to explore on foot or join organized shore excursions.

Your cruise ends in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, where the Zaandam is scheduled to dock at 8:00 AM. On a smaller ship, the disembarkation process moves quickly - most passengers are off within one to two hours. If you're flying out, book your flight at least four hours after the ship's scheduled arrival. Waikiki is iconic for a reason.

Your cruise departs from Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii on the Zaandam. We strongly recommend flying in the day before - flight delays and cancellations happen, and the ship won't wait. Use the extra time to explore Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii and start your trip relaxed. Complete your online check-in before arrival. With excellent beaches, cultural sites, scenic drives, and easy transportation, Honolulu works beautifully for both first time visitors and returning travelers who want to dig a little deeper.

The Zaandam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Kahului, Maui, Hawaii are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Iao Valley is a lush, green area just outside Kahului, known for its dramatic mountain peaks and deep cultural importance.

Your ship arrives in Kona, Hawaii at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. Kailua Village is the heart of Kona, lined with shops, galleries, and waterfront paths.

With roughly 7 hours hours in Fanning Island, Kiribati - arriving at 10:00 AM and departing at 5:00 PM - you'll want to be strategic. A ship-arranged shore excursion is a smart choice here - the ship will wait for its own excursions to return. Stick to attractions close to the port. Local residents often greet visitors with traditional songs and dancing near the landing area.

The Zaandam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Rangiroa, Tahiti are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Explore Rangiroa's famous Blue Lagoon, home to colorful coral gardens, tropical fish, and gentle sharks.

Your ship arrives in Huahine, French Polynesia at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. Huahine lagoon is calm clear and perfect for swimming snorkeling and gentle boat rides.

With 16 hours hours in Bora Bora, French Polynesia - from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM - you have a full day ashore with room to breathe. Go beyond the typical tourist stops: neighborhoods, local dining, and cultural sites that most cruise visitors never reach. Leave time for unstructured wandering. Snorkeling in Bora Bora's lagoon is an unforgettable experience thanks to calm conditions and remarkable visibility.

The Zaandam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Raiatea, French Polynesia are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Take guided boat tours or kayak through Raiatea's crystal clear lagoons.

Your ship arrives in Moorea, French Polynesia at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. Bring sun protection, light clothing, and water shoes for reef exploration.

Your cruise departs from Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia on the Zaandam. We strongly recommend flying in the day before - flight delays and cancellations happen, and the ship won't wait. Use the extra time to explore Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia and start your trip relaxed. Complete your online check-in before arrival. Visitors can sample Tahitian cuisine, explore nearby beaches, or take excursions to waterfalls and lagoons.

The Zaandam is a mid-sized ship, which means excursion options in Fakarava, Tahiti are plentiful. Plan your top priorities in advance and you'll generally find services accessible without long waits. Snorkeling in Fakarava is exceptional, even close to shore.

Your ship arrives in Taiohae, Nuku Hiva, Marquesas at 8:00 AM, one of the most common arrival windows. If you've booked a morning excursion, aim to be among the first off. If your plans are flexible, waiting 30-45 minutes lets the initial wave pass. Explore the lush valleys surrounding Taiohae, walking through tropical forests, past waterfalls, and along ancient trails, with breathtaking views at every turn.

Your cruise ends in San Diego, California, where the Zaandam is scheduled to dock at 7:00 AM. On a smaller ship, the disembarkation process moves quickly - most passengers are off within one to two hours. If you're flying out, book your flight at least four hours after the ship's scheduled arrival. Many highlights are walkable from the port, including the waterfront, parks, and dining areas.