Inside Travel Talk

Big Island Volcanoes and Hawaii Cruises: Expert Travel Tips You Can’t Miss

• Mark Faldmo & Patrick Wiscombe • Season 4 • Episode 10

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Hawaii can feel like one destination on a map, but it behaves like several completely different trips depending on how you plan it. We start with travel news that could change long-haul comfort for everyone: United is testing a lie-flat “couch” concept in economy, aiming at that sweet spot between basic economy and business class. If you’ve ever landed in Honolulu exhausted, you’ll understand why a rest-focused economy option matters for Hawaii flights and other long routes.

From there we get practical about what’s happening on the islands right now. We talk about local-style Hawaii travel and why the best memories often come from slowing down, driving, and letting food lead the way, from poke to plate lunches to the perfect malasada stop. We also address flooding headlines with real context: Hawaii is multiple islands, weather impacts are often localized, and smart travelers check conditions before hitting the panic button.

Then we go deep on the Big Island, including how realistic it is to plan around volcanic activity, where to check Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and USGS updates, and where to stay based on your vibe. Mark shares a full-day Big Island loop that connects the dots between Hilo-side scenery, meaningful history, waterfalls, mochi, Volcanoes National Park, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, and even South Point if you’ve still got energy.

We wrap with cruise news and the big decision many travelers don’t realize they have: a 14–16 day round-trip Hawaii cruise from the mainland with more sea days, or a 7-day inter-island sailing from Honolulu on Norwegian’s Pride of America that works like a floating hotel with rare overnight stays. If you’re comparing a Hawaii cruise versus a land vacation, we help you think through value, time in port, and what kind of trip you actually want. If this helps, subscribe, share the show with a Hawaii-planning friend, and leave a quick review so more travelers can find us.

Welcome And Hawaii Game Plan

Justin

You're listening to the Inside Travel Talk Podcast, your source for travel inspiration, expert advice, and the best deals. Today we're diving into Hawaii travel, big island adventures, the latest airline and cruise news, and how to plan the perfect Hawaii cruise.

Patrick Wiscombe

The Inside Travel Talk Podcast and radio show presented by BluePlanetVacations.com contains travel deals, promotions, and offers that may be time-sensitive. All offers and information were accurate when the show aired. Travel deals and offers change constantly and are capacity controlled and subject to change without notice.

Show Voice

Explore your world. It's the Inside Travel Talk Podcast Radio Show. Presented by Blue Planet Ray Teachers.com. Call or text the show now. 801-649-30700. 801-649-3700. And check out the podcast at InsideTravelTalk.com.

Justin

All right, well, we've got a really fun show today. This one is heavily focused on Hawaii, both land vacations and cruising. So if Hawaii has been on your bucket list or you've been thinking about going back, this is the episode you're gonna want to stick around for. We've got some really interesting travel news, including something that could change the way we fly economy. We'll talk about what's really happening in Hawaii right now, including the flooding headlines, and then we're diving deep into the big island with one of Mark's favorite day trips. And of course, we've got a great travel deal of the week you won't want to miss.

Lie-Flat Economy Seating Explained

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, and I'll say Hawaii is one of those destinations where once you go, you just keep going back. There's always something new to see.

Justin

All right, let's jump into travel news. This first one is honestly kind of surprising. United Airlines is testing what they're calling lie flat couch seating in economy. So, Mark, are we finally getting first-class comfort without first class pricing?

Mark Faldmo

I wouldn't go that far yet, but this is actually really interesting. What they're looking at is creating rows where economy passengers can essentially stretch out more like a couch setup rather than upright seats. And this isn't just a gimmick. Airlines are trying to solve a real problem. Long haul economy flights are uncomfortable. This basically will convert a row of three seats into a couch that you can lay on.

Justin

Yeah. Especially for Hawaii or international flights.

Mark Faldmo

And what's driving this is competition. Airlines know that travelers are willing to pay a little more for comfort, but not business class prices. So this could create a middle tier experience.

Justin

So kind of like premium economy, but more focused on sleeping.

Mark Faldmo

Right. Think of it as rest-focused economy. If they price it correctly, this could be huge.

Justin

Yeah. Because I think a lot of people would pay a couple hundred dollars more to actually sleep on a flight.

Mark Faldmo

Absolutely. Especially on overnight or long haul flights like Hawaii, Europe, or Asia.

Local-Style Hawaii Tips And Food

Justin

All right, let's head to Hawaii. There was a great article highlighting local recommendations across the islands. And Mark, I love this because you've always said don't just do the tourist stuff.

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, and Hawaii is one of the best places to get off the typical path. Locals always recommend slowing down, exploring smaller towns, and really experiencing the culture.

Justin

So what are some things you personally love?

Mark Faldmo

One of my favorites is just getting out and driving, especially on the big island or Maui, stop at local food spots, roadside stands, small beaches. And honestly, some of my best experiences in Hawaii have been completely unplanned.

Justin

Yeah, I feel like Hawaii rewards that kind of travel.

Mark Faldmo

It really does. And food is a big part of that. You've got things like poke bowls, malasadas, plate lunches. Those are the experiences you remember.

Flooding Headlines Versus Reality

Justin

Alright, next story, and this is important. There have been headlines about flooding in Hawaii, but the Hawaii Tourism Authority is saying there's no reason to cancel upcoming trips. So, Mark, what's your take?

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, this is a great example of how headlines can sound worse than reality. Hawaii is made up of multiple islands. Weather events are usually localized. So just because one area had flooding doesn't mean the entire destination is impacted.

Justin

So you wouldn't cancel a trip?

Mark Faldmo

Not unless you're specifically going to an affected area and it's still recovering. Otherwise, Hawaii is open, operating, and welcoming visitors, and honestly, tourism helps those communities recover.

Chasing Lava And Where To Stay

Justin

And this actually leads perfectly into our main topic today. We got a text message from Robin, and she's asking about going to the big island to see volcanic activity. So, Mark, first question. Can you actually plan a trip around seeing lava?

Mark Faldmo

You can try, but you can't guarantee it. Volcanic activity is unpredictable. I've been there multiple times in the last few years and missed it every time. But the big island is still incredible even if you don't see active lava. Currently, the volcanic activity is higher than normal, so you do have a better chance of seeing volcanic activity. You can go to the Volcano National Park website to see the current activity. Also, the USGS website has live webcams. You can see what's happening right now.

Justin

So where should Robin stay?

Mark Faldmo

I usually recommend two very different options. First is the Hilton Waikaloa Village. This is a full resort experience. It's massive. You've got pools, lagoons, trams, boats. It's like a destination within a destination.

Justin

Yeah, that's more of the vacation resort vibe.

Mark Faldmo

Exactly. Then on the other end, um, you've got the Royal Kona Resort. This is right in Kona Town. Walkable location, restaurants nearby, more local feel.

Justin

Alright, this is the part I've been waiting for. You've talked about this before. Your full island day trip. Walk us through it.

Mark Faldmo

Yep, and I'll say right up front, this is a long day, about 12 hours if you do the full loop. But it's one of my favorite things to do. So I start early and head toward Hilo. First stop, text drive-in. You've got to get a malasada.

Justin

Okay, what is a malasada?

Mark Faldmo

It's basically a Portuguese-style fried dough pastry, kind of like a doughnut, but lighter and often filled with cream or custard. And Hawaii does these really well. Next stop is Laupahojo. This is a beautiful coastal area, but it also has a powerful history. In 1946, a massive tsunami hit this area and destroyed a school, tragically taking many lives. So when you visit, it's both scenic and meaningful.

Justin

That's one of those places where you feel the history and enjoy the beauty.

Mark Faldmo

Then I head to Akaka Falls. This is a 442-foot waterfall, and it's incredible. There's a short walking trail, maybe 30 to 40 minutes total, one of my favorite spots on the island. Then into Hilo for lunch, and I always stop at Two Ladies' Kitchen for mochi.

Justin

You're building quite the food tour here.

Mark Faldmo

Food is part of the experience. Then it's on to Volcanoes National Park. Spend two to three hours here minimum. Check out the Thurston Lava Tube, Scenic Drives, and hopefully if you're lucky, active lava. Next is Punolu Beach, Black Sand Beach, and often sea turtles. And if you still have energy, South Point, this is the southernmost point in the US. Nearby is the green sand beach, but it's hard to get to. Usually requires a guided ride.

Justin

That is a full day.

Delta Vacations Deal Of The Week

Mark Faldmo

It is. And I always tell people, you don't have to do it all in one day. But if you want to see the entire island, this is the way to do it.

Justin

All right, let's talk deals.

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, this is a great one, and it's ending soon. Delta Vacations is offering up to $250 off vacation packages. Plus, you can earn up to 10,000 bonus sky miles depending on your booking. And if you're medallion status, there are additional perks.

Justin

So this works great for Hawaii trips?

Mark Faldmo

Perfect for Hawaii or really anywhere. And you can stack this with some of our Blue Planet Vacations promotions.

Justin

All right, that's going to wrap up segment one. Coming up next, we're diving into cruise news, including some big updates from Norwegian and celebrity, and then we're talking Hawaii cruises. Two very different ways to experience the islands. We'll be right back.

Show Voice

Taking you to destinations around the world, the Inside Travel Talk Podcast and Radio Show. Presented by BluePlanetVacations.com. America's best travel advisors. Call or text the show now. 801-649-3700. 801-649-3700. Thanks for listening. We'll be right back. From castles and capitals to vistas and villages, visit some of Europe's most remarkable sites and cities to set out on your own river cruise journey. Contact Blue Planet Vacations at 888-718-7717 or BluePlanetvacations.com. Really? You're listening to the Inside Travel Talk Podcast and Radio Show, presented by BluePlanetVacations.com, America's Best Travel Advisors.

Justin

Hey everyone, Kevin here, and um we're talking cruise news, some really exciting updates in the industry, and then we'll wrap up with Hawaii cruise options. Alright, let's kick things off with some cruise news. And this one is all about how ships are continuing to evolve, especially when it comes to outdoor spaces and entertainment. MSC has just revealed some new concepts for their upcoming ships, and it feels like they're really leaning into that resort-style experience at sea. Mark, what are you seeing with this trend and what stands out to you about what MSC is doing here?

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, this is a really interesting move from MSC because they're not just adding more outdoor space, they're rethinking how it's used. On these world-class ships like MSC World Asia, they're creating what they call outdoor leisure districts. And really that means breaking the ship into different outdoor zones, each with its own vibe. So instead of one main pool deck, you've got family areas with activities, quieter adult spaces, and then entertainment zones that can shift throughout the day from dining during the day to live music and nightlife in the evening. And I think that's where cruising is heading. The ship itself is becoming more of the destination, not just the transportation. MSC also brings that European design style, very modern, a little more upscale feel. So when you combine that with these outdoor districts, it really starts to feel like a floating resort. And when you compare that to something like Norwegian's newer ships, they're doing similar things with outdoor spaces, but MSc leans a little more relaxed and refined, where Norwegian is more high energy and activity driven. So it really gives travelers more options depending on the kind of experience they want.

Justin

Yeah, it feels like ships are becoming more like resorts. So, Mark, I saw that Norwegian had a bit of a change of heart with their drink packages on their private island, Great Stirrup K. What's going on there? And is this good news for travelers?

Mark Faldmo

This is a big one. Norwegian cruise line is now including beverage packages on their private island again.

Justin

That seems like a no-brainer.

Mark Faldmo

It really is. Guess expect consistency. If you've got a drink package on board, you want it to carry over to the private island experience. So this is a great move.

Justin

All right, let's move into something really exciting in the cruise world. Celebrity is getting into river cruising, and it sounds like they're not just following the same playbook, especially when it comes to shore excursions. Uh, Mark, what are you seeing here and why is this getting so much attention?

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, this is a big one because celebrity isn't just entering river cruising. They're trying to elevate it, especially on the excursion side, which is really the heart of any river cruise. Traditionally, excursions are included, but they can feel a little structured, you know, walking tours, bus tours, that kind of thing. What celebrity is doing is making those experiences more immersive and flexible. So, yes, you'll still have included excursions every day, but they're designing them to feel more personal, smaller groups, more interaction with local culture, things like biking tours, food experience, and deeper destination access.

Justin

So less follow the flag, more experience the destination.

Mark Faldmo

Exactly. And another big piece is flexibility. You can stick with the included tour or upgrade to something more customized if you want to go deeper. But I think one of the most important things celebrity is doing is making the experience feel familiar to their ocean cruise guests. They're really trying to create a seamless transition between ocean and river cruising. So if you've sailed with celebrity before, the service style, the way things are organized, even the flow of the experience, it's going to feel comfortable just in a more intimate setting. And that's a big deal because river cruising can feel a little intimidating if you've never done it.

Justin

Yeah, that makes it a lot easier to try something new.

Mark Faldmo

It really does. And when you compare that to other river lines, they already do a fantastic job at what celebrities doing is building on that foundation, but adding their own modern, more flexible approach and that familiar brand feel. So overall, it's a really exciting development. And honestly, it's great for travelers because it's going to push the whole river cruise experience forward.

Justin

All right, Mark, let's shift gears and talk about one of the most popular bucket list trips we hear about all the time: Hawaii cruises. I think a lot of people don't even realize there are a couple different ways to do it. So if someone is just starting to think about a Hawaii cruise, what should they know?

Mark Faldmo

Yeah, and you're exactly right. That's where I always start with clients, because there isn't just one Hawaii cruise. There are really two very different experiences. The first option is what I'd call the more traditional cruise, the sail round trip from the mainland, usually Los Angeles or San Francisco, and they're typically about 14 to 16 days. Now, what's unique about these is you get a lot of sea days, and for some travelers, that's actually the appeal. You've got multiple relaxing days at sea going to Hawaii, you visit several islands, and then you've got those relaxing days coming back. It's a very balanced cruise, part destination, part relaxation.

Justin

So this is more for someone who really enjoys the cruise experience itself.

Mark Faldmo

Exactly. If you like the idea of unplugging, enjoying the ship, shows, dining, ocean views, this is a great fit. You'll still visit the main islands, usually Honolulu, Onaahu, Maui, Kauai, and often the big island with stops like Kilo or Kona, but your time and port is a little more limited compared to the second option. Pricing wise, these are actually a really good value for the length. You're usually looking at around $1,200 to $1,500 for an inside cabin and closer to $2,000 to $2,500 for a balcony on a November sailing, which is a great time to go. But the second option is where things really change.

Justin

Yeah, this is the one I think surprises people. The inner island cruise.

Mark Faldmo

Exactly. This is the cruise that sails round trip from Honolulu, and it's a completely different experience. First off, this is done by Norwegian Cruise Line, and it's the only large ship that can do this itinerary because of something called the Jones Act. In simple terms, the Jones Act says that ships sailing between U.S. ports have to be U.S. flagged, built, and crewed. Norwegian's Pride of America is the only ship that meets that requirement in Hawaii. What that means for travelers is you're not spending all those days at sea. Instead, you're flying to Hawaii, and then your cruise becomes almost like a floating hotel that moves between islands.

Justin

So you're really maximizing your time in Hawaii itself.

Mark Faldmo

Exactly. And that's why I recommend this option for a lot of people, especially first-time visitors. You get multiple days on each island, and what's really unique is the overnight stays. You'll spend two nights in Maui and two nights in Kauai, which is something you just don't get on most cruises anywhere in the world. That gives you time to really explore. You're not rushing back to the ship at four or five in the afternoon. You can do a full day of excursions, go to dinner on the island, and really experience it. For example, in Maui, you can do the road to Hana one day, which is a full day experience. And then the next day, you could go up to Haleakala for sunrise, or explore the beaches. On Kauai, you've got the Nepali coast, which is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. You can do a boat tour, a helicopter tour, or even just spend time exploring the island at your own pace.

Justin

That sounds a lot more like a land vacation, just with the convenience of a cruise.

Mark Faldmo

That's exactly how I describe it. You unpack once, but you're essentially getting a multi-island Hawaii vacation. On the Big Island, you can visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which we talked about earlier. And on Oahu, you've got Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and all the cultural experiences there. Pricing for this option is higher because of the amount of time you're in port and the unique nature of the cruise. For a late November sailing, you're generally looking at around $2,000 for an inside cabin and closer to $3,000 or more for a balcony. But when you compare that to booking flights, hotels, and inter-island airfare separately, it's actually a very efficient way to see Hawaii.

Justin

Yeah, and listening to that, it does sound like the Norwegian option is a little more expensive up front.

Mark Faldmo

It is at first glance. You're definitely going to see a higher price point compared to those round-trip mainland cruises. But what I always tell people is you have to look at what's included with that Norwegian cruise. You're getting your transportation between islands, your lodging, most of your food, your entertainment all bundled into one. And that's a big deal in Hawaii because inter-island flights, hotels, and even dining can add up really quickly. So when you start pricing out a similar land vacation, multiple islands, hotels, flights between islands, it often ends up being the same price or even more. And on top of that, it's just so much more convenient. You unpack once, you don't have to worry about logistics, and you still get to experience multiple islands in one trip. So yeah, it's a higher up front cost, but overall, it's actually a really efficient and in many cases a better value to see Hawaii.

Justin

So if you had to simplify it, how should someone choose between these two options?

Wrap Up And How We Help

Mark Faldmo

It really comes down to what kind of vacation you want. If you love cruising and want a relaxing, slower-paced trip with a mix of sea days and island visits, go with the round trip mainland cruise. But if your goal is to really experience Hawaii, see multiple islands, spend more time in each place, and pack in those bucket list experiences, then the Honolulu round trip on Norwegian is the way to go. And honestly, both are fantastic. It just depends on whether you want the cruise to be the highlight or Hawaii itself.

Justin

All right, what a fun episode today. We covered a lot. And honestly, if Hawaii has been on your mind, this was a great one to tune into. We dove into the big island, and Mark, I've got to say, that full day island loop you shared, that's the kind of experience people remember for a lifetime. From malesadas in the morning to waterfalls, volcanoes, and even black sand beaches, it really shows how much there is to see beyond just the resorts. And then we finish with one of the best ways to experience Hawaii, whether that's just the more relaxed round trip cruise from the mainland, or that immersive island hopping experience with Norwegian, both are incredible options. It just depends on how you want to travel. So if Hawaii is on your list, or really anywhere you're thinking about traveling, this is exactly what we do every day. We help you plan it, book it, and make sure it all goes smoothly. And hey, if you enjoyed this episode, go back and check out some of our previous shows. We've got a lot of great destinations and tips to help you plan your next trip. We'll be back in two weeks with another episode.

Show Voice

Until then, keep dreaming, keep planning, and we'll see you out there traveling. That's it. That's the end of the show. You've been listening to the Inside Travel Talk Podcast and Radio Show. Presented by BluePlanet Vacations.com. Book your adventure right now. Call 888-718-7717. That's 888-718-7717. Thanks for listening. Have a great week. To book your romantic beach getaway, contact Blue Planet Vacations at 888-718-7717 or BluePlanet Vacations.com.