kauai carnival excursions

11 Incredible Kauai Shore Excursions (perfect for a cruise schedule)

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The enchanting island of Kauai is a tropical paradise for nature lovers. With an awe-inspiring mix of valleys, rivers, and rainforests, Kauai shore excursions are perfect for nature-loving adventurers.

And, even though you may only have a day or two to spend here on your cruise, we have some highly recommended Kauai shore excursions that will allow you to make the most of your time on the island.

Make this your one-stop shop for planning your Hawaii cruise vacation! Check out more shore excursions for your other cruise ports: – Big Island Shore Excursions – Honolulu Shore Excursions – Maui Shore Excursions Grab a Cruising Hawaii Guide to get everything you need for your Hawaii cruise planning in one place. With full self-guided excursion days, tours, the best beaches, amazing restaurants, and so much more .

Can’t Miss Kauai Shore Excursions

Want to make the most out of your time on Kauai? Here are our short list of can’t miss Kauai shore excursions to add to your bucket list. If you are on Norwegian’s Pride of America then you will be able to stay late on the first day. Perfect for a luau or a sunset sail on the Napali Coast.

• Napali Coast Tour: Explore one of the island’s most remote and most beautiful landscapes! Our favorite is the snorkel and sail tour , but you can also book a helicopter , airplane , or hiking tour.
• Mountain Tubing : Enjoy a thrilling tubing adventure around the scenic Lihue Plantation.
• Waimea Canyon: Visit this lush oasis of valleys on a hiking tour of Waimea Canyon.

Kauai Shore Excursion Tips

If you’re arriving in Kauai on the Norwegian’s Pride of America, you’ll have practically two full days to explore this beautiful island. This gives you plenty of time to take part in multiple excursions and do a late-night excursion like a luau or sunset sail.

Thankfully, ships dock at Nawiliwili Harbor, which is centrally located next to many of Kauai’s top attractions. Click here for directions to Nawiliwili Harbor .

Because you have extra time, Kauai is a great place to do things you can’t do at other ports of call. For example, you can take a full-day tour, stay on land to watch the sunset, or go on a long hiking adventure. You can also go to a luau (the three we recommend are a 10 to 30-minute drive), as they tend to be more traditional and intimate compared to the other islands.

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with the Hawaii cruise ports so you know what to expect at each stop. Some ports are central to a downtown area where you could spend all day ( Kailua Pier ) and others are far from anything you’ll want to do ( Kahului Harbor ).

For travelers who’d rather see the island on their own, we highly recommend booking a rental car for your stay. This will be much cheaper than relying on taxis or Ubers to take you to the different sights. We have a few recommendations for discount rental car companies if you choose to go down this route.

Having a rental car gives you a lot of flexibility – which can be a blessing or a curse! If you need help narrowing down your options of what to do, then check out our Cruising Hawaii Guide for a detailed self-guided itinerary.

There’s a lot to see on the island, but these are a few spots that you won’t want to miss. Click the location name for Google Map directions.

• Lihue : 5 minutes from the harbor
• Waimea Canyon : 1 hour from the harbor
• Poipu on Kauai’s South Shore: 20 minutes from the harbor
• Hanalei on Kauai’s North Shore: 50 minutes from the harbor

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Get the cruising hawaii guide.

Booking a cruise to Hawaii is the easy part (in our opinion). The hard part is finding the best shore excursions, planning self-guided itinerary days, and how to get around the island.

The Cruising Hawaii Guide provides everything you need to plan your trip, including 90+ shore excursion tour options, over 11 self-guided itinerary days, our favorite restaurants, and the best beaches. We want your cruise to Hawaii to be unforgettable, and stress-free.

Add the  Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary  to your cart with coupon code  CRUISE  to save $7.

Where to Book Kauai Shore Excursions

Booking kauai shore excursions with the ship.

If you decide to book an excursion, then you have the possibility to do so with the cruise ship. Here are a few benefits of booking a tour with the cruise line:

• Guaranteed Return: Tours organized by the ship are scheduled to bring you back before departure. While this isn’t a big deal on the first day, it is a nice guarantee if you’re planning to explore the second day.
• Transportation: These excursions usually include transportation to and from the dock, so there’s no need to worry about arranging your own taxi or ride share.
• Cost: Kauai excursions aren’t cheap, especially if you book through the cruise line. But since they include transportation and a guaranteed return, we think this extra cost is justifiable!
• Refunds: The weather and ocean conditions around Kauai can change in an instant. If the ship is not allowed to dock, then they’ll refund the cost of the excursion.
• Booking Flexibility: Not sure if you want to do an organized tour? Don’t worry! You can book this online before the ship sets sail or once you’re aboard. Just know they can fill up fast through the ship.

Booking Kauai Shore Excursions with the Tour Operator

There are some huge benefits to booking your tour directly with the local tour operator on Kauai. However, one of the biggest disadvantages is not having a guaranteed return back to the ship. If you are running late, it is crucial to call the cruise to let them know you’re on your way!

But don’t let the fear of missing the ship deter you! Here are some reasons why we recommend booking with the tour operator:

• Supporting Local Businesses: Unlike booking a tour with the ship (where the cruise line takes a commission), arranging a tour on land means the company keeps all the profits. This is great for supporting the local community in Kauai!
• Cost Savings: Tours are generally more affordable when not booked through the middleman. If you are on a budget, then booking with the tour operator is going to be the more affordable option.
• Availability: Cruise ship tours are limited and can sell out. If your favorite excursion is booked, you can find more tour options on land.
• Small Groups: These tours usually have much smaller groups than the ones organized by the tour. In our experience, there are usually no more than 12 people on the excursion.
• Cancellation Policy: One thing to keep in mind is the company’s cancellation policy. Depending on the operator, most tours will allow you to cancel anywhere from 72 to 24 hours in advance.

If you’re traveling with mobility or accessibility needs, rest easy knowing Hawaii has you in mind. We have a complete guide to Hawaii Handicap Accessible Trip Planning so you know what to expect (a whole lot of aloha).

The Best Kauai Shore Excursions

When it comes to the different types of Kauai shore excursions, the options are seemingly endless. To help point you in the right direction, we will be sharing trusted and reputable tour operators, most of whom we’ve been out with ourselves.

Remember, if you’re on Norwegian’s Pride of America, you’ll have two days on Kauai. That means you can take advantage of sunset or late tours on your first day and early morning or all-day tours on your second day.

Click the links below to learn more about the tour and to book directly with the local, Kauai tour operator.

Napali + Ni’ihau Snorkel Tour

Explore two of Kauai’s most sought-after destinations in one day! Your tour starts with a cruise up the striking Napali Coast before making your way to Ni’ihau, the Forbidden Island, a private invite-only island where you’ll stop to go snorkeling just offshore Ni’ihau at a volcanic crater.

You won’t be allowed on the island, but it’s a really cool experience to get close to a place that hasn’t been touched by modern conveniences like power, plumbing, phones, or paved roads.

This tour can only be done if you’re docked on Kauai overnight, as it starts bright and early at 6:00 am. Unfortunately, no transportation is included, so you’ll need to make sure you give yourself at least 30 minutes to make your way there.

Napali Coast Sunset and Dinner Cruise

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion (or just celebrating the fact that you’re in Hawaii!), this Napalia Coast sunset cruise is guaranteed to be a memorable experience. On this 3.5-hour journey, you’ll get to soak in the spectacular views while enjoying appetizers, dinner, and drinks.

The boat leaves from Port Allen (30 minutes from the cruise terminal) at 2:30pm, and you’ll be required to arrange your own transportation.

Helicopter Tour of the Napali Coast

Roughly 80% of Kauai is inaccessible by foot or car, leaving stretches of wilderness completely untouched by tourism. You’ll be able to see parts of the island that few tourists ever do on this 1-hour helicopter ride of the Napali Coast !

When you book this private helicopter tour, you can choose whether you want to have the doors on or off (if you’re feeling extra adventurous)! All flights leave from the Lihue Airport, which is just a short 5-minute drive away from the cruise ship harbor.

Flight over Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon

Another option to see the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon from the air is by plane. This scenic flight lasts 1-hour and takes you over the iconic cliffs, beaches, and jungles that Kauai is famous for. It’s also more affordable compared to the helicopter tour, as it’s a group flight with up to 6 passengers.

There are multiple tour times to choose from, and all of them leave from the nearby Lihue Airport.

Napali Coast Snorkel and Sail

For a fun family day out, the Napali Coast Snorkel and Sail tour is an awesome way to spend your day on Kauai. Departing from Port Allen, your catamaran will travel up to the Napali Coast where you’ll get to snorkel in the ocean for 50 minutes. After lunch and drinks (which are included), you’ll continue your sailing journey until the early afternoon.

Transportation is not included with this tour so make sure to arrange for a ride ahead of time. Because of the 7:30 am start time, this trip can only be done on the second day if your cruise is docked overnight.

We share the 5 Best Napali Coast boat tours here .

More things to do on Kauai!

• The 12 Best Things to Do in Hanalei: Kauai’s Rugged North Shore
• The 20 Best Things to Do in Poipu: Kauai’s South Shore
• 35 Things to Do on Kauai (we’ll surprise you!)

Full-Day Tour (North and East Shores) with Fern Grotto River Cruise

This full-day tour is the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Your guide will take you to popular sights like Hanalei, the Sleeping Giant, the Kilauea Wildlife Refuge, and more! To top it off, you’ll also get to take a riverboat cruise to Fern Grotto, a lava rock cave covered in lush, green ferns!

Private Kauai Island Tours

If you’re cruising with a group or you just want a more personalized experience, there are two private excursions for you to choose from! The first tour explores the west and south coast of Kauai, with stops at Waimea Canyon and Poipu Beach amongst others. The other tour travels to the north and east sides of Kauai to see Opaeka’a Falls, Kilauea Lighthouse, and more.

Both tours last 7 hours and can be booked for up to 7 guests. Pick-up and drop-off can be at the terminal, which makes this the perfect excursion for cruise ship passengers.

Waimea Canyon

This half-day Kauai shore excursion tour picks you up right at the cruise terminal and whisks you away to Waimea Canyon State Park. It’s very similar to the Waimea Canyon excursion offered by NCL’s Pride of America ship but at a much more budget-friendly price!

Kauai Private Hiking Tours

Explore Kauai the way it was meant to be seen – on foot! You get to choose where you want to hike from 4 different routes. Explore the valleys of Koke’e State Park, admire the views from Waimea Canyon, or enjoy the lush landscape on the Kuilau Ridge Trail.

Hikes are with a professional guide and totally customized to your group. Best of all, pick-up is included at the terminal so you can get out in Mother Nature faster!

Wailua River Kayak and Hike to Secret Falls

Can’t decide between hiking or water sports for your Kauai shore excursion? On this guided tour , you can have both! Start with a 2-mile kayak down the Wailua River before hopping off for a moderate 1.5-mile hike. You’ll get to see the beauty of Kauai as well as the stunning 120-foot Uluwehi Falls!

Tours leave from Kapa’a, which is 15 minutes away from the harbor.

Surf Lessons

Perhaps the main item on your Kauai shore excursion’s list is surf lessons. Kauai is a great place to learn how to surf, and we know the best instructors to help you!

Ideal for beginner or intermediate surfers, Kauai Surf School offers private or group lessons. All lessons are 1.5 hours long, which gives you lots of time to hit the waves of Poipu Beach (30 minutes away by car)!

FAQ on Kauai Shore Excursions

Where do cruise ships dock for kauai shore excursions.

Cruise ships arrive at Kauai’s Nawiliwili Harbor, located in the town of Lihue (southeastern coast near the airport).

Can I get picked up by taxi, Uber, or Lyft from the dock for my Kauai shore excursions?

Since most of these tours do not include transportation, you will need to take a taxi, Uber, or Lyft to the excursion meeting point. You also have the option to rent a car from the Lihue Airport or from a rental car satellite office near the harbor.

We have more detailed information about rental car companies and other transportation options in our Cruising Hawaii Guide .

Do tour operators offer pickup at the dock?

Depending on your excursion, pick up and drop off at the cruise terminal may or may not be offered. If you don’t see this option listed on the website, you can always call the company to confirm.

What should I know about booking tours in Hawaii?

Before you book your excursion on Kauai (or anywhere else in Hawaii, for that matter), keep these tips in mind:

• It’s customary to tip your tour guides anywhere from $10 to $20 per person. However, this can be more or less depending on the level of service you received.
• Kauai is the rainiest island in Hawaii, and it’s possible that tours may be canceled due to bad or dangerous weather. Since variable weather is the norm on Kauai, many tours run rain or shine as long as it’s safe. Feel free to call the company or check with your cruise line to confirm if you’re worried about the weather.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, make sure to stock up on anti-nausea medication. This can be helpful on the cruise and on the smaller tour boats if you’re going out on the water!
• Many tours have age restrictions (usually guests need to be over 5 years old). Double-check this before booking your Kauai shore excursion if you have little ones with you.

Related reads:

• Can’t Miss Big Island Shore Excursions for Your Hawaii Cruise
• 14 Incredible Honolulu Shore Excursions (cruise ship ready)
• The Best Maui Shore Excursions
• The Best Time to Cruise Hawaii (Clouds, Crowds, and Cost)

If you want to know more about cruising around Hawaii, our Cruising Hawaii Guide is a valuable resource to have when planning your trip! Since Hawaii cruises are designed to maximize your limited time on land, you’ll want to arrive prepared. Even if you don’t want to do guided tours, this cruise itinerary is packed with self-guided excursion days, the best restaurants, beaches, and things to do.

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Nawiliwili, Kauai United States of America

The port of Nawiliwili is located on the island of Kauai . Kauai is the oldest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and is nicknamed the Garden Island. You will find white sandy beaches and lush nature. Kauai has 43 beaches and its landscapes are spectacular. The Waimea Canyon nicknamed “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and the coast of Na Pali are two majestic examples.

There are only two seasons, the drier summer, and the wetter, cloudy winter. But as everywhere in the islands of Hawaii, the showers are very short and few are the days when you do not see the sun.

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Time difference

from New York: -5h

from San Francisco: -3h

from London: -10h

Where is located the Port of Nawiliwili Cruise Terminal

Travelling around the nawiliwili, kauai cruise port, activities in nawiliwili, kauai, kauai museum.

The fascinating history of the island is presented at the Kauai Museum through a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions of ancient tools, furniture, porcelain, clothing, shells, bird specimens, photographs and original paintings by artists of the island.

The cliffs of Na Pali form a 915 meters wall on 35 km on the northwest coast of Kauai. The 10 magnificent valleys that line these ramparts are all uninhabited and accessible only by foot, boat or helicopter. The panorama is accentuated by lava arches, white sand beaches and caves hidden by waterfalls. Several companies offer excursions along Na Pali during the summer months.

Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is one of Hawaii’s seven wonders with sixteen kilometers long, 1.6 km wide and more than 1000 meters deep. It was carved by rivers and the resulting rains at the top of Mount Waialeale. With an average of 460 centimetres of annual rainfall, this region ranks among the wettest places on the planet. You can enjoy stunning views of the gorge from numerous lookouts along Waimea Canyon Drive or from a helicopter. Hikers can choose from 11 trails of varying duration and difficulty.

Kokee State Park

The Kokee State Park stretches over 4,345 hectares on the west side of Kauai. A network of 19 hiking trails spans more than 55 km. Free guided walks are planned on weekends during the summer (reservations are required). The park also offers a natural history museum.

Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge was established on February 15, 1985 to protect and encourage the spread of migratory birds and native coastal plants. You will see several birds and perhaps dolphins, seals and green sea turtles.

Limahuli Natural Reserve

The Limahuli Garden and Nature Reserve are part of the National Tropical Botanical Garden and aims to protect and study rare and endangered tropical plant species.

The Wilcox family has made an important contribution to Kauai’s development in business, politics and community service. Get a glimpse into the lives of two generations of Wilcox by visiting the Sugar Plantation Manor, Grove Farm.

Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens

This botanical garden showcases gardens, an exotic fruit farm and a plantation of teak, rosewood, mahogany and other tropical hardwoods.

Dubbed the “Largest Small Town” of Kauai, includes historic sites, shops and art galleries.

Excursions in Nawiliwili, Kauai

• For nature: visit the Waimea Canyon or cruise on the Wailua River and visit a cave in which a choir sings.
• For culture: excursion to see a Luau , a traditional Hawaiian show
• Visit the filming locations of many films.
• Nature safari in 4x4 in Waimea Canyon, Kalalau Valley and Kokee Forest Reserve.
• Inflatable tube expedition on streams and caves built around 1912.
• Zipline route through the trees to observe nature from a different point of view.
• Kayaking , snorkeling , golfing and riding for the more active people.

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Useful References

• Tourism Board - United States of America
• Hawaii Tourism board
• Nawiliwili, Kauai on Wikipedia
• United States of America on Wikipedia
• Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

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Hilo United States of America

Honolulu United States of America

Kahului United States of America

Kailua-Kona United States of America

Lahaina United States of America

Other cruiseports in the area

• Kailua-Kona
• Nawiliwili, Kauai

More World Destinations

• Adriatic Sea
• Canada and New England
• Central America
• Mediterranean Sea
• Northern Europe
• Norwegian Fjords
• Panama Canal
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Carnival Legend- Hawaii Cruise Excursions

Carnival Legend Cruise Ship

Capacity: 3006 Persons

We warmly welcome all Cruise Ship Passengers to Hawaii. We hope you enjoy your visit to the Hawaiian Islands.

Hawaii offers an abundance of excursions and activities to delight cruisers of all ages and activity levels. From sight seeing tours, helicopter flights, snorkeling tours to a traditional Hawaiian luau, the Hawaiian Islands has it all!!

Hawaii Cruise Excursions offers a variety of options for you to choose from. Our rates are direct rates from the operators which allow you to save money while providing you with a greater selection of shore excursions to choose from.

Island Marketing Ltd recommends excursions for your visit to Hawaii based on the Splendor arrival times and departure time as well as the length of your visit. We also take into account the number of cruise ships arriving on the same day your ship comes to port. We then can provide you with options on how to avoid the busy excursions when this is appropriate.

Please have a look at our recommended excursions and itineraries . If you don't find what you are looking for, click on Excursions in the top navigational buttons for a full listing of excursions.

Recommended Shore Excursions:

We are diligently working to bring you the best tours available in the Hawaiian Islands.

The Hawaiian Islands are uniquely situated in an ideal environment that provides access to incredible sea and land adventures.

We specialize in unique and boutique tours in addition to our "best for less" excursions, offering excellent value for some of the most popular tours. Island Marketing Ltd offers tours and excursions for almost every budget and individual need.

Hawaii Cruise Excursions are tour and excursion experts representing the best independent operators in Hawaii. We provide firsthand information on each and every excursion we offer and recommend the excursions that work best for you. That's the Island Marketing Ltd. difference !

We guarantee a full refund of your excursion deposit if your ship can not make it into port in Hawaii.

Hawaii Cruise Excursion Experts

Our Hawaiian Islands Experts are standing by to check availability for you or help you choose an excursion.

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Embark on a journey of creativity and culture at the Kauai Island Crafters Fair, a celebrated event with a decade-long tradition of bringing together the best of Kauai's local artisans and crafters. Nestled in the heart of this breathtaking island, our fair showcases the essence of Kauai's craftsmanship, offering a unique opportunity for both visitors […]

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USA TODAY 10Best

Go on epic expeditions with the best adventure tours of 2024

June 5, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors June 5, 2024

Summer is calling, and adventure awaits at every turn. Imagine the spray of water on your face as you navigate the rapids, the thrill of reeling in a catch on a sunlit sea, or the wind in your hair as you cycle through scenic trails. This season, embrace the call of the wild with our guide to the most amazing summer activities, from serene boat tours to heart-pounding white water rafting.

To help you plan your greatest adventure yet, we asked readers to cast their votes for the best outdoor adventures across nine categories, and the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

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Best Adventure Tour Operator: Wild Women Expeditions

Wild Women Expeditions specializes in “amazing outdoor adventures for all women.” The company leads trips to more than two dozen countries around the globe, with activities like canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, surfing, sailing, and yoga.

Full list of winners: Best Adventure Tour Operator »

Best Aerial Adventure Park: Botanical World Adventures in Hakalau, Hawaii

See Hawaii from a new perspective as you zoom across eight zip lines that run above and through Botanical World Adventures' rainforest canopy. Fly over waterfalls, pools, and flowering trees, and view exotic plants in the gardens.

The zip lines get faster and longer as you fly through the jungle, and the ride includes two side-by-side ziplines that allow you to race your friends to the finish! This experience is great for both young and old and all expertise levels of “zipping.”

Full list of winners: Best Aerial Adventure Park »

Best Bike Tour: Carolina Tailwinds

Carolina Tailwinds offers multiday, inn-to-inn bicycle tours to destinations largely around the eastern United States, with all bicycle vacations providing a nice balance between physical activity and relaxation.

From flat and easy to hilly and challenging, there are bike routes to choose from for all levels of riders. Guests stay at boutique hotels and country inns, with breakfasts and most lunches and dinners included.

Full list of winners: Best Bike Tour »

Best Boat Tour: Chicago's First Lady Cruises in Chicago, Illinois

The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is led by highly trained docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you'll hear highlights of the city's history, including stories about the visionaries who shaped Chicago's skyline. Options include both daytime tours and evening cocktail cruises.

Full list of winners: Best Boat Tour »

Best Fishing Charter: Hubbard's Marina in Madeira Beach, Florida

In business since 1928, Hubbard's Marina is one of the top authorities for water-based recreation along Florida's Gulf Coast. Fishing trips range from half-day jaunts to 44-hour marathon excursions under the glow of the full moon. Beyond the realm of the reel, guests can also take part in sunset cruises, dolphin tours, and even camping trips on stunning Shell Key.

Full list of winners: Best Fishing Charter »

Best Helicopter Tour: Island Helicopters Kauai in Lihue, Hawaii

There are few things more scenic than seeing the world from a helicopter, and the splendor of Kauai provides an ideal backdrop. Experienced pilots with Island Helicopters share facts about Kauai as you enjoy a bird's-eye view of lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, coastlines, and famous landmarks.

Full list of winners: Best Helicopter Tour »

Best Hot Air Balloon Ride: Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park, Colorado

Grand Adventure Balloon Tours in Winter Park offers year-round flights above spectacular Colorado scenery. Views include the Continental Divide and Rocky Mountain National Park, with the chance to fly low and spot local wildlife or splash and dash in a nearby pond or river.

Full list of winners: Best Hot Air Balloon Ride »

Best Kayak Tour: Santa Barbara Adventure Company in Santa Barbara, California

Renowned for its balmy Mediterranean climate, Santa Barbara is the perfect city for a lengthy kayak tour. Outdoor adventure aficionados can book both wildlife and sunset excursions along the coast with Santa Barbara Adventure Company, and as an added bonus, there’s no shortage of voyages to nearby Channel Islands National Park.

Full list of winners: Best Kayak Tour »

Best White Water Rafting Tour: Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours in Durango, Colorado

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours leads rafting trips in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona, with a river for just about any thrill level and trips lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days.

Full list of winners: Best White Water Rafting Tour »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

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Family’s $15,000 Carnival Cruise gets canceled after mother shares booking number online

A family’s $15,000 Carnival Cruise trip was last-minute canceled due to alleged identity theft .

Two days before Tiffany Banks’ family was supposed to embark on their Carnival Celebration voyage, the mom of four from Kentucky received the devastating news that they were no longer registered. Banks, her husband, and their children were meant to fly to Florida the next day to set sail on the trip, which she claims to have paid in full. However, after Banks accidentally shared their booking information online in a post counting down the days to the trip, someone supposedly canceled their reservation.

On May 12, Banks took to TikTok to detail her family’s situation. “I have to laugh, or I’m just going to sit down and cry and just absolutely lose my mind,” she started. She explained how she had gotten an email from Carnival the morning before to let her know two of their excursions had been canceled.

The frustrated mother called Carnival to inquire. To her surprise, the company representative allegedly told her that Banks had canceled their $12,000 reservation for the Excel Presidential Suite on the ship. But according to Banks, neither she nor her husband had made any cancelations.

“We have nearly $15,000 tied up in for this vacation including excursions. The room itself was I think $12,000 or $13,000, and then we’ve got a few grand tied up in excursions, and actually with almost $2,000 for flights,” Banks added.

While Carnival offered to rebook the family two interior rooms because now the Excel Presidential Suite had been taken by another family, Banks declined, arguing the replacement wasn’t much of a compromise considering they had planned to stay in a more expensive room.

Banks claimed Carnival had refused to give her a full refund due to their no-refund return policy within 15 days of the sail date.

In a ditch effort to see if the fate of their trip could be changed, Banks and her family flew to Miami, Florida, hoping they’d be able to board the ship. Unfortunately, things did not work out how they’d hoped, and the family of six ended up renting an Airbnb in Miami instead.

On May 13, Banks took to her social media page to address the online skeptics who accused her of not sharing the full story. To those criticizing her character and proclaiming she was wrong, Banks continued to say she was telling the truth and anyone who knew her would know she was being candid.

Finally, in a separate follow-up video with a recorded clip of her phone call, Banks revealed that she was a victim “of a form of identity theft” based on Carnival’s investigation. Allegedly, when Banks and her partner posted their booking confirmation email on Facebook ahead of their trip, someone went on to Carnival’s website, created an account, and used their trip confirmation number.

The Carnival representative could be heard telling Banks that their reservation was canceled by someone who appeared to have an IP address in British Columbia. Per Banks’ report, Carnival offered her $10,404 in credit for their next trip if she posted on social media to say the company had resolved the issue. However, Banks said she wasn’t interested in that solution or ever booking with Carnival again.

The Independent has contacted Banks and Carnival for comment.

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Princess Cruises Named Official Cruise Line Partner of the 
Academy of Country Music

Groundbreaking partnership includes onboard performances by emerging country stars.

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FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., (June 5, 2024) – Princess Cruises, the world’s most iconic cruise brand, today was named as the exclusive cruise line partner for the famed Academy of Country Music ® (ACM ® ). Kicking off May 16 at the 59 th ACM Awards Show hosted by Reba McEntire, Princess celebrated Country Music’s Party of the Year at the ACM Awards red carpet, interviewing artists and nominees live from the Princess Stage.

As part of this groundbreaking partnership, Princess Cruises will be the presenting sponsor for the recently introduced “ACM Live from the Red Barrel Lounge” series taking place at the Academy’s Headquarters in Nashville this summer, featuring exclusive performances introducing viewers to new and emerging country artists. The collaboration will feature special performances by some of the talented artists from the Red Barrel Lounge, welcoming them onboard select future Princess voyages.

“Princess is incredibly proud to partner with the ACM and to showcase the next big country stars,” said John Padgett, President of Princess Cruises. “Country music has a special place in the hearts of many of our guests, and this partnership allows us to bring unparalleled experiences onboard to combine that love for cruising and country music in a unique and memorable way."

In addition, Princess will be on site supporting the ACM Honors in August, celebrating special award honorees, off-camera category winners and the ACM Industry and Studio Recording Awards.

Founded in Los Angeles in 1964, and still the longest-running Country Music awards show, the ACM made history in 2022 as the first major award ceremony to exclusively livestream on Amazon Prime. The ACM has grown from a regional Southern California trade organization to a national powerhouse with its sights set on a higher purpose – improving lives by connecting fans, artists, and the industry. Today, the ACM is dedicated more than ever to promoting new artists, artists on the rise and established superstars, while supporting the good work of charitable causes nationwide through ACM Lifting Lives ® .

Since the first cruise from Los Angeles to the Mexican Riviera in 1965, Princess Cruises has become the most iconic cruise brand in the world, from its co-starring role as the setting of the beloved “Love Boat” television series to now sailing 16 luxurious and innovative cruise ships to 330 global destinations, captivating the hearts of travelers worldwide.

All 16 ships in the Princess fleet offer well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities. No matter the cruise, Princess delivers a premium vacation with the line’s award-winning, signature Princess Medallion Class experience which offers unparalleled service and personalization.

Additional information about Princess Cruises is available through a professional travel advisor, by calling 1-800-Princess (1-800-774-6237) or by visiting www.princess.com .

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About Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises is The Love Boat, the world’s most iconic cruise brand that delivers dream vacations to millions of guests every year in the most sought-after destinations on the largest ships that offer elite service personalization and simplicity customary of small, yacht-class ships. Well-appointed staterooms, world class dining, grand performances, award-winning casinos and entertainment, luxurious spas, imaginative experiences and boundless activities blend with exclusive Princess MedallionClass service to create meaningful connections and unforgettable moments in the most incredible settings in the world - the Caribbean, Alaska, Panama Canal, Mexican Riviera, Europe, South America, Australia/New Zealand, the South Pacific, Hawaii, Asia, Canada/New England, Antarctica, and World Cruises. The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE:CCL; NYSE:CUK).

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Silence and heavy security in China and Hong Kong mark 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen crackdown

Security in Beijing is tight around Tiananmen Square as China marks 35 years since a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests

BEIJING — Beijing’s Tiananmen Square had checkpoints and police vehicles Tuesday as China tried to silence the 35th anniversary of a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests. Hong Kong police arrested four people and swarmed a handful of others who tried to protest or commemorate as the effort extended beyond the mainland.

China has long quashed any public memory of the military crackdown on monthslong protests at the heart of its capital. An estimated 180,000 troops and police rolled in with tanks and armored vehicles and fired into crowds trying to block them from advancing on the student-led demonstration in the square.

Hundreds, if not thousands, are believed to have been killed in an overnight operation that ended on the morning of June 4, 1989.

It was a turning point in modern Chinese history as Communist Party hard-liners embraced control instead of political reforms.

The economy boomed in the ensuing decades, turning a once impoverished country into the world’s second largest economy, but societal controls have been tightened since party leader Xi Jinping came to power in 2012.

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Across China, the anniversary remains a taboo subject that is heavily censored. Any mention on social media is quickly erased.

Life appeared as normal in Beijing on Tuesday, with tourists lining the streets leading to gates to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the former imperial palace across from it. The closest subway exit was closed, as was a viewing point atop Tiananmen Gate, according to a visitor registration website.

“As to the political disturbance that occurred in the late 1980s, the Chinese government has long had a clear conclusion,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said without elaborating. Asked about Western government statements on the anniversary, she added, “We are firmly opposed to anyone using this as a pretext to attack and smear China and interfere in China’s internal affairs.”

Tiananmen Mothers, a group formed by families of the victims, made an online appeal to the Chinese government to publish the names and total number of those who died, grant compensation to the victims and their relatives and pursue legal accountability for those responsible.

“The June 4 tragedy is a historical tragedy that the Chinese government must face and explain to its people, and some people in the government at that time should be held legally responsible for the indiscriminate killing of innocents,” the group said in a letter signed by 114 family members and published on its website, which is blocked in China.

Tiananmen memorials were also scrubbed out in Hong Kong — for years the only place in China where they could take place. A carnival organized by pro-Beijing groups was held Tuesday in a park that for decades was the site of a huge candlelight vigil marking the anniversary.

Police officers were out in force.

A woman who wore a T-shirt with the numbers 8964 in Roman numerals was taken away by police, and an older man was detained after holding up two handwritten posters. One read: “Remember 89! Mourn 64!” Hong Kong media said that activist Alexandra Wong , popularly known as “Grandma Wong,” was also removed after she chanted slogans.

An AP journalist saw another woman taken away after being searched.

“It’s different from the past,” said Hong Kong resident Keith Law. “Many people seem to act as if there’s nothing happening, including myself.”

After darkness fell, one person who lit a candle and two others who turned on their smartphone lights were quickly cordoned off by police and questioned outside the park. They were eventually released.

“My heart hasn’t died yet,” said one, former vigil-goer Edward Yeung.

Police said late Tuesday that they arrested four people ages 23 to 69. Among them was a 68-year-old woman detained on suspicion of sedition under the city’s new national security law . Police said she had chanted slogans in public. Local newspapers reported the woman was Wong, quoting unidentified sources.

Two others were accused of assaulting police officers and disorderly conduct in a public place. The remaining suspect was arrested for alleged common assault. Police didn’t identify them.

Authorities also said five other people suspected of “breaching public peace” were taken for further investigation, but all were later released.

Rows of electronic candles lit up the dozens of windows of the American consulate, and the British consulate posted an image on the social media platform X of a hand holding up a smartphone with its light on and the Roman numerals “VIIV,” a reference to June 4. Hong Kong is a former British colony.

Some Hong Kong residents remembered the event privately, running 6.4 kilometers (4 miles) on Monday or sharing Tiananmen-related content on social media.

Hong Kong leader John Lee did not answer directly when asked Tuesday whether residents could still publicly mourn the crackdown.

“The threat to national security is real,” Lee said.

Commemorative events have grown overseas in response to the silencing of voices in Hong Kong.

U.S. lawmakers, former student leaders of the Tiananmen movement and younger activists from mainland China and Hong Kong gathered at commemorations Tuesday in Washington . More than 100 people also held a candlelight vigil Monday night at the foot of a replica of the “Goddess of Democracy,” a statue of a woman holding a torch that was erected on the square during the 1989 protest.

“What has happened in China under the circumstances in the past 35 years has not been positive in terms of global democracy, in terms of human rights, in terms of promoting democratic freedoms,” said Rep. Nancy Pelosi, former House speaker and a longtime supporter of China’s pro-democracy cause.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that the United States stands in solidarity with those who continue the struggle for human rights and freedoms, adding that the sacrifice of the protesters 35 years ago would not be forgotten.

In London, about 300 people outside the Chinese Embassy remembered the dead by turning on the flashlights of their mobile phones in place of candles. Some protesters read out a long list of names of those who died in the crackdown, while others chanted “Free China” and “Free Hong Kong.”

In Taiwan, a self-governing democratic island that China claims as its territory, people laid flowers and put electronic candles on the numbers 8964 — representing June 4, 1989 — on a banner spread on the ground in Taipei, the capital.

“As long as other places can still protest, we must continue to protest,” resident Leo Chiang said.

Leung reported from Hong Kong. Associated Press journalists Emily Wang Fujiyama in Beijing; Johnson Lai in Taipei, Taiwan; and Didi Tang in Washington contributed.

This story was first published on June 4, 2024. It was updated on June 5, 2024, to correct that U.S. lawmakers did not attend a candlelight vigil in Washington to mark the 35th anniversary of Tiananmen Square crackdown in China.

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If you’re looking to make an exotic destination your next vacation, let’s talk about the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of Hawaii. The answers are as follows: visit Hawaii on a Carnival cruise (of course), and… visit Hawaii because this place is simply spectacular! Take a Hawaii cruise and explore exotic locations spread across four islands — the Hawaiian island chain is home to names you know, like Maui, Kona and Honolulu. These spots feature postcard-worthy waterfalls, volcanoes and some of the world’s most stunning, sunning beaches. You’ll find these spread across an island chain so otherworldly that you may forget you’re in the states! Best of all, that postcard you’re sure to send home will require only domestic postage.

• Experience some of the world's most famous beaches.
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• Hula it up at a real luau.

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