Private Tour or Driver Suggestions

Question

Group of 11 (6 adults and 5 kids) looking to hire a driver with a van to take us to Volcano National Park from Cruise Port and Back. Don't really want to rent 3 cars or have one of us drive a big van in each port.

Also looking for tours that pick up at each of the cruise ports that do excursions (Fern Grotto on Kaui, Whale center on Maui, etc.

Any Suggestions? Would really appreciate the help.

Answer

Aloha! For a group of 11 traveling around the Hawaiian Islands from cruise ports, hiring a private driver with a van is a convenient and stress-free option. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan both Big Island and inter-island excursions.

Big Island – Volcanoes National Park Private Transportation

Since your group is large (11 people), renting three cars or driving a big van yourselves can be stressful, so a private driver or small tour company is ideal. Some options:

Big Island Shuttle & Tours – Offers private vans with drivers for customized tours, including round trips from Hilo or Kailua-Kona cruise ports to Volcanoes National Park.
Hawaii Private Tours – Private van service for groups, flexible schedule, knowledgeable guides who can make stops at waterfalls, black sand beaches, or local spots along the route.
Big Island Excursions – Provides private vans for up to 12 passengers, with experienced drivers familiar with the parks and safe parking for large groups.

Tips for booking on the Big Island:

Book early, especially for cruise port days; availability can be limited.
Confirm vehicle size and seat belts for all passengers.
Discuss itinerary in advance; most drivers are flexible with stops along the way.

Other Islands – Cruise Port Excursions

For Kauai, Maui, and other islands, many small operators offer excursions that pick up directly from the cruise port. Some recommended options:

Kauai: Fern Grotto tours, Wailua River kayaking, and waterfall tours. Companies such as Kauai Excursions and Kauai Tour Company offer private or semi-private pickup from Nawiliwili Harbor.
Maui: Whale Center, Iao Valley, Lahaina sightseeing. Companies like Valley Isle Excursions and Maui Adventure Tours provide port pickup and guided tours suitable for large groups.
Oahu: Pearl Harbor tours, Hanauma Bay snorkeling, or North Shore excursions can be booked with companies like Hawaii Shuttle or Oahu Private Tours that accommodate van groups.

General Tips

Always specify the number of passengers and ages of children; this ensures the van has proper seating and safety restraints.
Ask if the driver can provide commentary or local tips—some private drivers double as informal guides.
Book directly with smaller, local operators for more flexibility and often better pricing than large cruise-affiliated tours.
Check cancellation policies in case of cruise schedule changes.

With a private van, your group can enjoy flexible stops, avoid the hassle of multiple vehicles, and ensure everyone travels safely and comfortably. It’s often the best option for large cruise groups wanting to see highlights like Volcanoes National Park or Kauai’s Fern Grotto without worrying about logistics.