Hawaiian food — Kalua

Hawaii: Islands of Surprise latimes.com | Jobs | Cars | Homes | Rentals | Newspaper Ads | Personals | Place an Ad Advertising Supplement Water Fun Relaxation Culture Cuisine Go to Hawaii to eat Spam? That’s probably not one of the top reasons most people visit the islands, but the canned processed pork is popular at restaurants catering to locals, sharing the menu with other classic Hawaiian dishes such as lau lau (fish, beef or pork wrapped in taro leaves), loco moco (steamed rice topped with a hamburger, a fried egg and brown gravy) and shredded Kalua pig. American soldiers introduced the Hawaiians to Spam during World War II. Now nearly 7 million cans are sold annually in the islands, according to the Hormel website. But if Spam doesn’t appeal to your tastebuds, it’s not a problem. There’s plenty of other grind (food) that locals find ono (delicious). One favorite is the inexpensive but generously portioned Hawaiian plate lunch. It can incorporate Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Hawaiian and American dishes — often all on one plate — and is best eaten on a day when there’s nothing planned for the afternoon except a nap on the beach. Here are some fun, funky and fabulous places for local grind. Maui The exterior of the restaurant, which has no sign. Top left: The clay pot at A Saigon Cafe A Saigon Cafe There is no sign for A Saigon Cafe, but people find it anyway, says manager Nguyan Nguyan (friends call him Chicken Wing.) Located in Wailuku Town, about 15 minutes from Kahului Airport (Maui’s main airport), A Saigon Café uses fresh, local ingredients for its Vietnamese dishes, which have attracted an enthusiastic local following. Nguyan said the Food Network’s Rachael Ray recently featured the restaurant for a Maui segment of “$40 A Day” and interviewed him. “I’m a movie star,” he said. Favorites include calamari, shrimp and clay pot (shrimp and fried rice), sauteed string beans, chicken salad, stuffed tofu, steamed fresh fish of the day (served whole) and spring rolls. A Saigon Cafe, 1792 Main St., Wailuku; (808) 243-9560 Da Kitchen’s fish tempura Da Kitchen “People will eat any kind of food, the same food two or three times a week, as long as it’s good food,” said Da Kitchen’s owner Les Tomita, explaining the restaurant’s philosophy. Five minutes from Kahului Airport, Da Kitchen is popular with tourists and locals, who drop by to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food — Kalua pork, lomi (salted salmon chopped with tomatoes and onion), lau lau, chicken long rice, poi and plate lunches with such entreés as teriyaki chicken, Korean Kobe ribs, hamburger steak cutlets and fish tempura served with rice and macaroni salad. Da Kitchen, 425 Koloa St., Kahului; (808) 871-7782 For more information about Maui restaurants and cuisine visit, www.visitmaui.com . Kauai Caffe Coco Located on the edge of a cane field, with a view of Sleeping Giant Mountain across the fields, Caffe Coco’s courtyard dining room is all lush vines, exotic foliage and tropical flowers. At night, tiki torches blaze, live jazz plays and the food is, according to owner Ginger Carlson, “unpretentious, healthful and world class. No deep frying.” Offerings include macadamia nut and black sesame crusted ahi with wasabi cream, Moroccan-spiced tofu and roast-veggie wraps, curried sweet potato samosas and silver noodle salad. Carlson also sells a line of condiments used in the restaurant. A favorite is Jungle Jazz, a guava-based grilling sauce ($4 a jar). Caffe Coco, 4-369 Kuhio Highway, Kapaa; (808) 822-7990 Tropical Taco Surfer and restaurant owner Roger Kennedy is something of a local legend on Kauai. Back in the ’70s, the California native was given a one-way ticket to Hawaii from his father as a high school graduation present. After stints working in the pineapple and cane fields, Kennedy started looking for a way to “teach surfing and not starve.” He bought a lunch wagon and parked it, loaded with surfing paraphernalia, on the edge of Hanalei and waited for the lunch crowd to show up. They arrived in droves, ravenous for his tacos, burritos and Fat Jacks (10-inch burritos). Five years ago, he opened a sit-down place (24 chairs and 17 stools) outside in Hanalei Town. All the food is made to order which, Kennedy admitted, can sometimes lead to a 25-minute wait for a taco, especially since he likes to talk to customers as he cooks. Said manager Celine Molina, “Everything is made with love. We just ask for patience.” Tropical Taco, Halele’a Building, 5-5088 Kuhio Hwy. Hanalei; (808) 827-8226 Hawaii The main dining room at Huggo’s. Huggo’s (indoor dining) and Huggo’s On The Rocks (informal) When Hugo and Shirley von Platen Luder opened Huggo’s back in 1969, it quickly became a gathering spot where local fishermen met to “talk story” (Hawaiian for shoot the breeze). Today, it’s still the place to go for fish macadamia nut-crusted mahi mahi, crab-crusted ono (the No. 1 requested dish) and Asian-seared ahi. Times change, though. Where commercial fishermen once called in on two-way radios to report their catch, they now use cellphones, says the von Platen Luders’ son, Eric, who now manages the restaurant. The yellow fin tuna caught in the morning, he said, may end up as the dinner special that night. Live entertainment is featured at the spectacular oceanfront location. Huggo’s, 75-5828 Kahakai Road, Kailua-Kona; (808) 329-1493 Ocean View Inn In business for 70 years, the family-owned Ocean View Inn, across from the Kailua Pier, is the oldest restaurant in Kona. Jeannette Kuwadu, the restaurant’s manager and granddaughter of the original owners, said that except for the prices, which have gone up a bit, the menu hasn’t changed much over the years. One can still find chopstick rice, tripe stew, poi, lau lau, Kalua pork, raw fish and Spam with eggs or cabbage. Inexpensive and popular with locals, the restaurant has a casual and friendly service. Go with an appetite — the plate lunches are large, fried and carb laden. Ocean View Inn, 75-5683 Alii Drive; (808) 329-9998 Oahu Wally Ho’s Garage & Grill Wally Ho ran a gas station and repair shop at this location for 40 years. But a few years back, the gas tanks sprang a leak so they were hauled away, a commercial kitchen was installed and Wally’s became a garage and grill. Ho is retired now, but his daughter, Willette — who manages the family-owned business — describes the fare as healthy Hawaiian with an emphasis on fresh. This means, for example, you can choose brown rice instead of white for your plate lunch, order a green salad and know that the food is prepared without a lot of fat. The fish is fresh. On Fridays and Saturdays, Wally’s serves Hawaiian food — lau lau, Kalua pig, lomi, a choice of rice or poi and, for dessert, haupia, described by one aficionado as a sinful but angelically white coconut desert. Wally Ho’s Garage & Grill, 98-380 Kamehameha Highway, Aiea; (808) 488-2220 Janice MacDonald is a freelance writer based in Vista. Top of Page | Home Use Unusual Elements to Spice Up Your Patio Add Color with Window Boxes Make Spring Cleaning More Spiritual See How Sexy Sectionals Can Be Create a Family Room that’s Chic…and Cozy Update Metal Beds with New Materials What is the Square Root of Chic? Spring for Stripes this Season Learn to Create a Personal Style for Your Home Turn your Kitchen into an Island Paradise Advertising Supplement

Maui snorkeling spot on

Maui Snorkel Map - The Frog's favorite spots! Of course some of the best snorkeling available from Maui is around Molokini Crater. This requires a short boat ride, and we have just the trip for you! Ride aboard the Quicksilver , a brand new catamaran complete with glass bottom viewing area, waterslide and plenty of room to make sure everyone is comfortable. HOME | CHEAP FUN | GEAR RENTAL | MAUI MAPS | SNORKEL CRUISES This is a map of Boss Frog's favorite snorkeling spots. They are all on the West side of the island because that's where the water is generally safer. When North swells come in, it is best to snorkel at the southern locations, i.e. numbers 7 through 15. During South swells, numbers 1 through 6 are best. Generally, ocean swells come from the North in the Winter and South in the Summer. This isn't always the case so the best course is to check with The Frog when you get here for the latest report. Honolu'a Bay Honolu'a may well be the best Maui snorkeling spot on a good day. A good day here is when there have been no recent North swells or rain. During North swells, this is a world class surfing spot and for obvious reasons not good snorkeling. If there has been a recent rain in the area, the run-off enters at the mouth of the bay and ruins the otherwise great visibility. Most of the time this is a great place to snorkel or dive. There are coral formations on each side of the bay and lots of colorful fish. The chance of spotting a few turtles here is excellent. This is a marine reserve so you are not allowed to take anything but pictures. Location: North of Napili on Hwy. 30, about 1/2 mile past mile marker 32, you will see a metal gate down in a wash. Park where you can and walk around the gate, through a canopy of trees and to the water. Be sure to park off the road. If you are not completely outside of the white fog line, you may get ticketed. Do not leave valuables in your car. Facilities: none Beach: Large, smooth rocks Experience Level: Beginner to advanced MAP Makulei'a Bay Makulei'a Bay, also known as "Slaughter House" to surfers, is a good place to snorkel. The snorkeling isn't quite as good as Honolu'a, but if there are some in your group that want to just hang out on the beach, this would be a good compromise. If you are an experienced swimmer, you could snorkel around the northern point to Honolu'a. There are coral formations on each side of the bay and lots of colorful fish. The chance of spotting a few turtles here is good. This is a marine reserve so you are not allowed to take anything but pictures. Location: North of Napili on Hwy. 30, at mile marker 32, you will see a chain link fence at the top of the cliff. Park where you can and walk down the concrete stairway to the beach. Be sure to park off the road. If you are not completely outside of the white fog line, you may get ticketed. Do not leave valuables in your car. Facilities: None Beach: Beautiful, sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to advanced MAP Kapalua Bay Kapalua Bay, known as the prettiest beach on Maui is also a good snorkeling spot. The best snorkeling is on the north side of the bay. Unless you are very experienced, you should stay within the bay due to the potential for strong currents outside. Location: On Hwy. 30, at the Napili Plaza, turn toward the ocean on Napilihau Street. When Napilihau Street "T's" at Lower Honoapi'ilani Road, turn right. Drive almost a mile to Napili Kai Beach Club and turn toward the ocean at the Shoreline Access sign. Park in the lot and walk through the tunnel to the beach. The best snorkel access is on the north side of the bay. Facilities: Showers, change rooms, restrooms Beach: Beautiful, sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Kahekili Beach Park Kahekili Beach Park, also known as Airport Beach, is a nice place to spend the day with the family. Great facilities and lots of reef to snorkel. The calm water and easy access make it a popular spot for scuba instruction. Location: North end of Ka'anapali, on Hwy. 30, just north of mile marker 25, turn toward the ocean on Pu'ukolii Road. Facilities: Lots of parking, showers, change rooms, restrooms, large covered picnic areas, barbecues and pay phones Beach: Nice, sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Black Rock Black Rock is like a wall dive for snorkelers. A lava outcropping with coral attached. Swim from the South end up to the north and back again. If there is no ocean swell, this can be a very clear snorkel. One usually sees turtles along the way and an occasional tako (octopus). A common spot for night dives. Location: On Hwy. 30 in Ka'anapali turn toward the ocean on Ka'anapali Parkway. Look for the free beach access parking. If it's full, you'll have to park at Whaler's Village parking. If you decide to eat or buy something at this mall or have lunch, you can have your ticket validated. Facilities: Lots of parking (some free some not - see above), showers, change rooms, restrooms, pay phones, shops and restaurants. Beach: Beautiful, sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Wahikuli Park Location: Facilities: Showers, change rooms, restrooms, Beach: Nice, sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Olowalu Acres of coral reef. You could spend the whole day here and not see it all. If it's a little murky at first don't get discouraged - just go further out. This area stays shallow for a long way out. Follow the sand channels until you are deep enough not to scrape your belly on the coral. This location is also a good choice in the afternoon as it more protected from the trades. Location: On Hwy. 30 at mile marker 14, about 10 miles south of Lahaina. See mile marker post on the mountain side of the road. Be careful not to park in soft sand! Facilities: None Beach: Narrow sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to advanced MAP Coral Gardens Great snorkeling with lots of coral and tropical fish. Good spot to see turtles. Unless you are on a boat, this is only recommended for advanced snorkelers due to the long swim and sometimes difficult access. Location: On Hwy. 30, about 1/2 mile north of the tunnel. The first parking area north of the Pali (cliffs). Enter by parking area and swim south in front of the cliffs. Facilities: Showers, change rooms, restrooms, Beach: None Experience Level: Advanced (beginner to intermediate from a boat) MAP Kamaole Beaches Kamaole beaches 1, 2, and 3 are stretches of sandy beaches along South Kihei Road. Each beach is bordered by rocky points. These points are the best snorkeling. Great family beaches with plenty of stores and restaurants close by. Location: On South Kihei Road in Kihei Facilities: Showers, change rooms, restrooms, lifeguards, phones, park facilities Beach: Nice, sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Ulua/Mokapu Mokapu and Ulua are two beaches separated by a nice little snorkel point. This is a nice place for the family, especially if you are staying in the Wailea area. Parking lot may be full if you are not there early or later in the afternoon. Location: In Wailea between the Renaissance and Outrigger hotels. See the sign on Wailea Alanui and turn toward the water Facilities: Showers, change rooms, restrooms, Beach: Nice, sandy beach on either side of snorkel area Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Polo Beach Polo Beach is by the Kea Lani Hotel. This is a pretty sand beach with the best snorkeling area to the right. Nice coral formations and plenty of fish. Location: Between Wailea and Makena in front of the Kea Lani Hotel. Take Kaukahi (the road on the south side of the hotel) toward the ocean and turn right at the bottom of the hill, following the beach access signs. Facilities: Showers, change rooms, restrooms. Beach: Nice sandy beach Experience Level: Beginner to intermediate MAP Five Caves One of Maui's best snorkel or scuba spots. Abundant marine life including many turtles. Not for beginners due to the swimming distance . Many caves and "swim-thrus" for advanced scuba divers. Visibility is sometimes poor after rain or south swells. Location: South of Wailea on Wailea Alanui, turn toward the ocean on Makena Rd, just south of the Makena Surf Condos. In about 1/4 mile, you will see some dirt parking on both sides of the road and a small graveyard between the parking and the ocean. Follow the trail to the sea and look for an inlet for entry. Facilities: None Beach: None Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced MAP Molokini Crater Geologically, Molokini is a volcanic cinder cone that has eroded over the ages. Now the island is a Marine Life Conservation District Seabird Sanctuary, and a world-class dive location. Located 3 miles off the shores of Maui, it is famous for having incredibly clear water with visibility exceeding 100 feet almost every day. You will enjoy thousands of brightly colored tropical fish and it is possible to see monk seals, whale sharks, manta rays, spotted eagle rays and harmless white tip sharks. Molokini is one of the most popular & exotic snorkel & diving sites in the entire world. It is a must see destination for any visitor interested in Maui's underwater world . Location: 3 miles off the coast - boats only Facilities: Whatever is on the boat Beach: None Experience Level: Beginner to advanced MAP Ahihi Keanau Reserve Snorkeling at it's best. Anywhere along this reserve you feel comfortable entering the water is great. Ahihi Bay itself is a great place to get used to your gear if you are new or rusty at snorkeling. After you get comfortable in the water, head out of the bay for some of the best snorkeling on the island. Location: South of Wailea and all of the hotels, after the road narrows and follows the coast closely, you will begin to see Ahihi Keanau Reserve signs. Ahihi Bay is an obvious bay within the reserve. Facilities: None - park where you can. Beach: Rocky to none Experience Level: Beginner to advanced MAP La Perouse To the North is reserve and the best snorkeling. This is an excellent place to snorkel if it isn't too windy. There is a pod of dolphins that frequents the area - usually in the early morning hours. If you are lucky they will swim with you! Location: Past Ahihi Reserve, this is end of the road unless you have 4-wheel drive and a lot of clearance. Facilities: None Beach: Rocky to none Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced MAP CONTACT US | HOME GEAR RENTALS | ONLINE STORE | OCEAN FUN | LAND & AIR FUN | CHEAP FUN VISITOR TIPS | INTERNET SPECIALS | MAUI MAPS | OTHER RESOURCES Site Designed & Maintained by Tortuga Roja Web Services

Hawaiian MusicIsland reliable mail-order

Hawaiian Music Hawaiian Music Keola'sNahenaheNet Site the premiere site for local music, including links, news reports and a discussion board Auntie Maria's Hawaiian MusicIsland reliable mail-order service, concert information and a searchable resource for all in-print local recordings TaroPatch Network with a friendly and informative discussion board The Ballad of Jeremy Harris Darlene Ahuna Ale'a Nathan Aweau Kapono Beamer Keola Beamer Ikaika Brown BobBrozman Sonny Chillingworth Sonny Ching Coconut Joe Martin Denny Mackey Feary Memorial Site Gordon Freitas Maila Gibson AmyHanaiali'i Gilliom UluwehiGuerrero Hau'ula Raiatea Helm Daniel Ho Don Ho Don Ho's Shock the Monkey on Andy Bumatai's site Ho'okena Sol Ho'opi'i Bobby Ingano Barney Isaacs Willie K Ledward Kaapana LedKaapana.com Mike Ka'awa Robi Kahakalau (a fan site) Kawika Kahiapo George Kahumoku Jr. Moses Kahumoku Dennis Kamakahi Kekuhi Kanahele Raymond Kane Kapena Henry Kapono Keahiwai Bryan Kessler Kilinahe Ozzie Kotani The Krush George Kuo Leonard Kwan Arthur Lyman TheMakaha Sons Makana Wayne Harada's article about Makana's new CD Maunalua Na Leo Pilimehana Na `Oiwi King Bennie Nawahi Olomana Opihi Pickers Gabby Pahinui James Bla Pahinui Cyril Pahinui Martin Pahinui Pai'ea Tribute to Dennis Pavao Keali'iReichel World Sound Music: Keali'i Reichel Jesse Rivera Royal HawaiianBand Owana Salazar Jake Shimabukuro (Official Site) Jake Shimabukuro John Berger's Star-Bulletin feature on Jake Shimabukuro Don Tiki Matt Catingub Danny Couch [Danny's Official Fan Site] Ken Emerson Justin Harold Kama, Jr. Matt Yee 7 Degrees North Freshly Squeezed The Hula Monsters Island Riddim Band The SingingMongooses Soulflower Sunburn Aloha Plenty Ryan "Wink"Nomura's Song Archive Stevo's HawaiianMusic Guide Hawaiian MusicResources nativemusic.com on the Big Island database of Hawaiian songs collected by Amy K. Stillman Mirror of the elusive huapala.org site: Hawaiian Music and Hula Archives Hawaiian Chants: Mele of Antiquity The Hula Pages Hula, Hawaii's Art and Soul Virtual Festival: Hula in Hawaii 2002 Merrie Monarch Festival Snapshots Listening to Hawaiian music on the Web: Hawaiian Music Machine KKCR, Hanalei, Kauai HawaiianRainbow.com Hula Hips MP3 Site Cord International, producersof the Vintage Hawaiian Treasures CDs Dancing Cat Records Flying Solo Music Melody Line Productions MoonRoom Records Mountain Apple QuietStorm Records Wa Nui Records Tropical Disc, Maui: HawaiianRecords, Online or Phone Orders BuyHawaiianMusic.com Tropic Isle Music and Gifts HARA: Hawaiian Academyof Recording Arts Hawaiian Music Hall of Fame and Museum Sugar Bar and Grill, Haleiwa Brudda Bu'sUkelele Site The Bounty Music Hawaii 'UkuleleGuide A Self Instruction Guide for the 'Ukelele from 1914 Hawaiian Instrument Designs Kamaka Koa 'Ukeleles KP 'Ukeleles Roy Sakuma 'Ukelele Strummers Hawaiian Steel GuitarAssociation John Ely's SteelGuitar Page Pedal Steel GuitarResources The Lap Steel Guitar Usenet: alt.music.hawaiian return to panther's cave manoa

Hawaii Wedding

Hawaii - Maui - Wedding Specialists Activities Maui Printer Friendly Version Help us preserve the Islands. Tell our advertisers you found them on Alternative-Hawaii. WEDDINGS FRIENDS AALA ALOHA NOHEA WEDDINGS 40 Nohea Place Haiku, HI 96708 (Island of Maui) Tel. (808) 572-1206 or 1-888-715-2249 Friendly and professional consultants offering complete unique and exotic Hawaiian wedding and honeymoon packages and vow renewal ceremonies on the Island of Maui. Best Wedding Sites! Elegant, Affordable, Island Style Ceremonies. Short notice events are always welcome. ALOHA MAUI WEDDINGS 55 Aloha Aina Place Haiku, HI 96708 (Island of Maui) Tel. (808) 575-2238 or 1-888-822-9700 Full service wedding and honeymoon vacation specialists catering to your own individual vision at the heart of it all on beautiful Maui. I DO WEDDINGS 129 Oili Road Haiku, HI 96708 (Island of Maui) Tel. (808) 875-2110 or 1-800-Maui-I-Do Specializing in exotic and traditional Hawaiian wedding packages on Maui. An ordained minister noted for her knowledge and use of Hawaiian tradition and culture in her services. MAGICAL MAUI WEDDINGS P. O. Box 1450 Kihei, HI 96753 (South Maui) Tel. (808) 879-8800 Providing wedding coordination services on Maui since 1991. Allow us to create "Your Magic Moment" - a day that will be relaxed, fun and flawless! MARRY ME MAUI P. O. Box 1156 Kihei, HI 96753 Tel. (808) 879-9192 or 1-800-745-0344 Complete wedding and activities planning available. We specialize in custom weddings and offer wedding and renewal of vows packages. If you can dream it ... Marry Me Maui will make it come true! MAUI LANI WEDDINGS 910-A Honoapiilani Hwy, Kawahara Bldg. Lahaina, HI 96761 (West Maui) Tel. (808) 747-6284 or 1-888-747-MAUI (toll free) Begin your life together on the Island of Hearts - romantic, easy and without stress. Say "I Do" in Paradise, with style and creativity. ROMANTIC MAUI WEDDING P. O. Box 13232 Lahaina, HI 96761 (West Maui) Tel. (808) 665-1214 or 1-800-808-4144 A Marriage Made on Maui is a Marriage Made in Heaven! Specializing in sunset weddings. Since 1988, offering everything from an intimate ceremony for two to a more traditional extravaganza. ROYAL HAWAIIAN WEDDINGS P. O. Box 424 Puunene, HI 96784 (Central Maui) Tel. (88) 875-8569 or 1-800-659-1866 Specializing in small and simple "Just the Two of Us" ceremonies for over 20 years. Perfect locations - romantic and secluded, intimate and unforgettable. WEDDINGS JUST FOR TWO P. O. Box 10937 Lahaina, HI 96761-0937 (Island of Maui) Tel. (808) 669-4400 or 1-888-587-4896 (toll free) Specializing in intimate, spirit-filled, Christian services on the shores of West Maui. All amenities available. Over 1,600 weddings performed since 1988. Back to Weddings Sponsors Listings Activities Index | Home Page Contact Us | Sponsor Join Us Form ©Ala Mua Hawaii 1997

Hawaiian Cruise

CANOE Travel - Activities - Hawaiian lines crusing -- January 25, 2006 Canada USA Mexico Central America Caribbean Africa Asia Australia/Oceania Europe South America Tips Trends Cybertrips Q&A Books -- Active Vacations Adventure Art Cruises Cultural Cybertrips -- Fall Getaways Families Golf Holidays Romantic Ski More -- Bed & Breakfast VIA Rail Canada All-Inclusive Vacations starting from C$747 Discount Travel Deals Tips on managing your debt -- Contest E-cards Newsletter Forum Feedback Atevo Travel Guide Currency Calculator Weather Travel Advisories Passport Canada Info Canada Customs Info Travel Health Tips World Airports Links Great Canadian Lakes Great Canadian Parks Great Canadian Places Great Canadian Rivers Natural Tourist Park Wardens Ski Canada -- Destination: HONOLULU, Hawaii Hawaiian lines crusing Norwegian Cruise Lines finds success in Hawaiian waters By JAYMES SONG -- Associated Press Cruise liner on the move at night. -- Photographer: Andrew Gunners, Getty Images Hawaii's cruise ship industry floundered in the days following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, as the state's sole interisland cruise operator was flooded with cancellations while bookings plummeted by 50 percent. American Classic Voyages Inc. filed for bankruptcy protection just 38 days after the attack and shut down its Hawaii operations, scuttling plans for two new ships. Since then, however, the Hawaii cruise ship industry has made an aggressive recovery. It has seen unprecedented growth, led by Norwegian Cruise Line and fueled by vacation-starved baby boomers. What used to be a seasonal business with a few ships making calls here, is now a year-round mainstay with Hawaii's ports bustling with activity. "For us, it's a huge market," said Robert Kritzman, NCL's executive vice president and managing director of Hawaii operations. "Very few people have cruised Hawaii. There's an untapped market still there and Hawaii is a phenomenal place to come through." Norwegian, which operates the U.S. subsidiary NCL America, is betting big on Hawaii, spending $1.4 billion on three luxury liners to serve the islands. The Miami-based company estimates it will own about 85 percent of the cruise ship market here by 2007. The 1,900-passenger Pride of Aloha was the first, introduced in 2004. Formerly the Norwegian Sky, it was redesigned with a Hawaii theme and reflagged to a U.S. vessel, allowing it to carry passengers solely between U.S. ports. The brand new 2,100-passenger Pride of America made its debut in June 2005 as the largest U.S.-flagged cruise ship ever. By the time its sister ship, the Pride of Hawaii, is built and arrives in the summer of 2006, the company will have three year-round lavish cruise ships -- as well as a seasonal foreign-flagged vessel -- carrying an estimated 8,000 passengers per week. "Being able to welcome an additional 8,000 people on a weekly basis will allow us to continue to grow our economy because we are almost at our capacity where our land-based accommodations are concerned," said Marsha Weinert, the state's tourism liaison. In July 2005, Hawaii hosted 22,725 cruise ship passengers, up 57 percent from July 2004, according to the latest state figures. Hawaii had 151,164 cruise passengers this year through July 2005, up 34.6 percent from the first seven months of 2004. About two-thirds of the visitors are extending their vacations and staying a couple days in hotels or time-share units. John Hansen, president of the North West Cruiseship Association, projects the number of cruise ship passengers in Hawaii will exceed 400,000 in 2006, up from about a peak of 150,000 annually before the 2001 terrorist attacks. However, the rapid growth can be seen worldwide. In 2004, nearly 10.5 million people took a vacation cruise, an increase of nearly 40 percent from 2001, according to figures on the Cruise Lines International Association's Web site. Hansen said that five years ago there were just four key cruise ports: Los Angeles, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Vancouver, British Columbia. Today, there are more than 20 key homeports that have emerged including Honolulu, Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Boston, Baltimore, Norfolk, Va., and Jacksonville, Fla. Many states are pouring millions of dollars into upgrading their cruise facilities to cash in on the cruise boom. Kritzman said a major benefit of a cruise vacation is value. Included in the fare are transportation, lodging, food and entertainment. "We think it's a great way to see Hawaii, especially for the first-time visitor," he said. "They get to see all four major islands while packing and unpacking once." The ships also provide a unique vantage point of the islands, sailing sail past the glowing lava fields of Kilauea volcano on the Big Island, the remote green peaks of the Na Pali coast on Kauai's North Shore and the urban cityscape of Oahu. Kritzman said the growth wouldn't have been possible without federal legislation enacted after the terrorist attacks. The law exempts NCL's ships from a rule that prohibits foreign-built ships from operating between U.S. ports. It also requires the cruise line to employ American crews and abide by all U.S. labor laws, including paying overtime. NCL estimates that labor on a U.S. vessel costs more than three times that of a foreign-flagged vessel. But not everyone has been a fan of the cruise ships. Environmentalists say cruise ships harm Hawaii's sensitive ecosystem, including its pristine coral reefs, and threaten the rural charm of the islands. They have long complained about a lack of oversight and laws regulating the cruise ship industry in Hawaii. "This is not Florida. This is a fragile island that is creaking under the weight of people," said Cha Smith, executive director of KAHEA, an advocate for environmental and native Hawaiian causes. KAHEA is working on launching a program called, "Na Maka O Ke Kai," or the "Eyes of the Ocean," encouraging people to report fouled water or debris left behind by cruise ships, which they call "giant floating cities." Kritzman said his state-of-the-art ships go far beyond what is required by law. The ships are self-sufficient, each generating its own electricity and drinking water. The vessels also treat sewage through a high-tech filtration process with the sludge heated and dried to be offloaded or burned in the ship's incinerator. "I think this is a very low-impact form of tourism. We think this does not have the same impact as building a resort," Kritzman said. If You Go... NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE AND NCL AMERICA: http://www.ncl.com/ or (800) 327-7030. KAHEA: http://www.kahea.org/ or (808) 524-8220. Spontaneous Escapes From C$250 Toronto to Santiago de Cuba $597 + tx $199 Toronto to Camaguey $597 + tx $199 Toronto to Puerto Plata $497 + tx $274 Vancouver to Varadero $835 Calgary to Mazatlan $579 -- Click here to sell your vehicle hotelier.ca Get great deals on hotels with hotelier.ca