While Hawaii is every bit as magical and enchanting as it was when Captain James Cook first came ashore, frankly, in recent years, the experience of getting to and around Hawaii has become less enjoyable. Packed flights without any meal service, delays, airport hassles, and, perhaps worst of all, a grim red-eye flight back to the mainland, not to mention packing and unpacking to visit three or four islands, all make this not entirely pleasant.

At Uncommon Journeys, we have a far more sensible and comfortable idea about how to do this. We begin with free or low-cost train travel from any U.S. city to Los Angeles and board the superb ms Koningsdam of Holland America Line for a nostalgic journey from the West Coast to Hawaii. The lazy days sailing to the islands are the perfect introduction to 'island time' as the locals put it. Once in Hawaii, you will explore them in great style and comfort, without having to hop on inter-island flights and changing hotels every few days. Instead, you will see Hawaii as it should be seen, by sea, approaching Diamond Head at dawn and cruising along the scenic Na Pali Coast of Kauai. And with the luxury of time, you will see it all, Hilo, Maui, Honolulu, and Kona, all in one glorious voyage.

Nicer still, as befits a tranquil destination where the air is softer, the breezes gentler, and the views inviting, your comfort and ease are paramount. We have included a superb hotel in Los Angeles, the night before sailing, and as a special treat, train travel along the famed 'Surf Line' to San Diego on sailing day, a short but marvelous trip of great beauty, traveling along the blue Pacific. Transfers to the ship on sailing day are included, and a professional tour host travels with you, with special parties & events just for our guests. Aboard ship, superlative cuisine from breakfast in bed to five-course dinners awaits, plus the services of an attentive staff and grace notes, like fresh flowers, rich furnishings, staterooms that are wonderfully outfitted, a choice of dining venues, a spa . . . and more!

Westin Hotel or similar. Welcome reception tonight.

Travel aboard the Surf line and transfer to ship.

A visit to stunning Waimea Canyon, possibly the loveliest sight of all the islands, is featured today. Be certain your camera is handy to capture the beauty of this beautiful island.

Today, we visit Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial before a special luncheon at the fabled Royal Hawaiian Hotel. We have two full days and an overnight in Honolulu to relax, explore, and enjoy.

Our first stop was the Maui Plantation, where we learn about the agricultural history of the area, followed by a visit to the scenic Lao Valley and Needle. Nearby Kanaha Beach Park is worth visiting.

Today, we have included a visit to Volcanoes National Park, 4300 feet above sea level, to view the Kilauea Volcano before traveling along the 11-mile crater rim.

The Big Island of Hilo is ruggedly beautiful with hundreds of microclimates that contribute to the best coffee anywhere.

With pleasant weather year-round, Ensenada is the getaway to Baja's wine route with winery tours and tastings available.

Homeward bound.