Hawaii - Part 3

 We spent the majority of our time touring the Hawaiian islands by taking a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines. They are the only cruise company that offers this option, staying on the ship for most meals and sleeping overnight, then pulling into port to go on excursions. For us, it made it possible to see so much more than if we'd gone the traditional route and flown into one island. It also made it more affordable, since the cost of a cruise doesn't really vary from location, and the room and board is included in the price. Hotels and food are pretty expensive on the islands themselves.

Several days into our trip, we were on the main island of Hawaii, and went to the port of Kona. Some of the photos that follow are from there. I've already gotten some of this 'green' mixed up...

 This is called a Fern Grotto, which is basically a cave that has ferns growing all over it. Much of it was destroyed in the hurricane of 1992, and it is slowly coming back. Hopefully this last hurricane, Lane, didn't affect this area again.

The water was very clear everywhere we went, with such beautiful shades of blue. 

This felt like a scene from South Pacific, which was filmed in Hawaii. 

Hibiscus blossom floating on the water

Hibiscus blossoms lining the shore

My hair's volume seemed to grow by the day

Bamboo is everywhere

Street names using their limited # of letters alphabet

 She serenaded us on the ukulele below the fern grotto. 

This was from a tour of The Waimea Canyon, their 'Grand Canyon of Hawaii'. It was beyond beautiful.

 A tribute to Captain Cook, who was at least partially responsible for discovering the islands, and was killed there.

On a catamaran ride, where we saw schools of dolphins swim beside us. I gave up on my naturally curly hair with the humidity on about day 2. This was one of our favorite excursions.

 The Hawaiian flag with the US flag above it. 

My favorite person

 This was from our night on the deck of the cruise ship, seeing the lava flowing from the volcano on the main island. We heard about what the lava has destroyed, but also how more land has been added to the island by the lava flowing. Interesting perspective. 

Most plants that grow are edible. Very little is unsafe to eat. 

Who wouldn't want to visit here?

All the Jurassic Park movies were filmed on different islands in Hawaii. We went past several locations, by bus, van, and boat. Can't you just envision dinosaurs running around?

A kayaking excursion - looked very fun.

A 'black beach' covered with lava. Some were more fine in texture. This one was not. 

Next up is the island of Kauai (my favorite) and our visit to Pearl Harbor.