Battleships of World War II at Pearl Harbor from Maui

Discover Pearl Harbor from Maui Without Spending the Night

This Pearl Harbor tour from Maui offers a unique way to visit the historic site without staying overnight on Oahu. For $465.99 per person, travelers enjoy a 7 to 9-hour day filled with guided visits to key WWII landmarks, including pre-booked tickets to skip long lines. The tour departs from Kahului with included round-trip airfare to Honolulu International Airport, making the journey seamless and straightforward.

The tour features small-group sizes capped at 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and attentive narration. This setup is ideal for those who want an in-depth look at Pearl Harbor’s history, the battleships, and surrounding sites, all packed into a well-organized day that combines history, culture, and scenic views.

Key Points

• Round-trip airfare from Kahului to Honolulu included in the price
• Pre-booked tickets ensure no long wait times at Pearl Harbor
• Guided visits to USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, USS Oklahoma Memorial
• Tour duration ranges from 7 to 9 hours
• Includes transportation from Honolulu Airport to Pearl Harbor and back
• Visits also include downtown Honolulu, Punchbowl Cemetery, Iolani Palace, and other historic sites

How the Tour Combines Air Travel and Historic Exploration

This tour stands out because it combines air travel with a comprehensive exploration of Pearl Harbor, all arranged to avoid the typical frustrations of waiting in line. The round-trip flights from Maui are included, making it unnecessary to navigate ferry schedules or external transportation. Once in Honolulu, shuttle service takes guests directly to Pearl Harbor, with the entire process managed by the tour provider.

The tour’s length of approximately 7 to 9 hours offers enough time to see all major sites without feeling rushed. Travelers can expect a full day, beginning early at 7:00 am, with plenty of time for each stop and some free time at the end for personal exploration or dining.

Exploring Pearl Harbor’s Historic Sites and Memorials

The tour begins at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where visitors explore exhibits that give context to the attack of December 7, 1941. A 23-minute documentary highlights the attack, culminating in a ride on a U.S. Navy boat across the harbor to the USS Arizona Memorial.

The USS Arizona Memorial is the tour’s emotional core. This iconic white, open-air structure spans the sunken battleship, inviting reflection on the sailors who lost their lives. Inside, viewers see parts of the wreckage and the “Tears of the Arizona”, oil droplets rising to the surface, remain visible. The Remembrance Wall inscribes over 1,177 names, honoring those fallen.

Next, the Battleship Missouri Memorial allows visitors to walk along the deck of the last battleship built by the US. Here, the instrument of surrender signed on the deck in 1945 marked the end of WWII. The guided tour includes a look into officer and crew quarters, artillery, and significant moments like the kamikaze aircraft crash.

The USS Oklahoma Memorial, located on Ford Island, honors over 400 servicemen who perished aboard the USS Oklahoma during the attack. As the only land-based memorial at Pearl Harbor, it offers a solemn space for remembrance.

Cultural and Historic Stops in Downtown Honolulu

Beyond Pearl Harbor, the tour takes in downtown Honolulu, where history and modern city life blend. This 45-minute stop features narration on Hawaii’s past, including stories about King Kamehameha and the Hawaiian monarchy.

The National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific on Punchbowl Crater offers a calm, beautifully maintained resting place for thousands of US military members. Its vantage point provides stunning views of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the coastline.

A brief visit to Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States, reveals insights into Hawaii’s monarchy. The King Kamehameha Statue nearby symbolizes Hawaiian unity, while Kawaiahao Church stands as one of Hawaii’s oldest Christian places of worship, offering further cultural context.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour begins promptly at 7:00 am, with pickup and transportation arranged from Kahului Airport to Honolulu. Once on Oahu, the guided transfers between sites are included, with air-conditioned vehicles ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Admission tickets for Pearl Harbor attractions are provided on the day, thanks to pre-booking, saving considerable waiting time. The boat ride to the Arizona and entry to the Missouri are also included. Though purses and bags are not permitted inside Pearl Harbor, storage is available for $7 each.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking, as the tour involves considerable movement across different sites. The tour is not recommended for those unable to walk about four city blocks. Visitors are asked to maintain a respectful silence at the memorials to honor the fallen.

The Value and Suitability of the Tour

This all-inclusive tour offers strong value for travelers eager to experience Pearl Harbor without the hassle of planning logistics. The airfare, tickets, and transfers are bundled, simplifying the experience. It’s particularly suited for those who want to combine a historical visit with a full day of sightseeing without staying overnight on Oahu.

However, travelers should be prepared for a long day and the physical activity involved. The small-group size enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized narration, which is ideal for history buffs or those interested in detailed stories.

Final Thoughts on the Battleships of WWII at Pearl Harbor from Maui

This tour provides a comprehensive look at Pearl Harbor, including its most famous battleships and memorials, with the advantage of pre-arranged tickets and included flights. It’s a practical option for visitors from Maui who wish to avoid the stress of logistics and long lines.

The guided narration and well-organized itinerary make it easy to absorb the significance of Pearl Harbor’s history, while the scenic stops in Honolulu add cultural depth to the day. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, ideal for those seeking a meaningful and efficient exploration.

While the day is packed, the timing allows for a respectful and in-depth understanding of the events and sites that shaped WWII history. This tour is especially suited for those who value convenience, historical insight, and a balanced mix of reflection and sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation back to Maui?
No, the tour includes round-trip airfare from Kahului to Honolulu, but transportation to Kahului Airport on Maui is not included.

Are tickets to Pearl Harbor attractions included?
Yes, admission tickets to the Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and USS Oklahoma Memorial are provided on the day of the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration ranges from 7 to 9 hours, starting at 7:00 am.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it is not recommended for those unable to walk four city blocks. Comfortable shoes and mobility are important.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable shoes, and note that purses and bags are not allowed inside Pearl Harbor, though clear plastic bags are permitted.

Can I explore the museums on this tour?
No, visiting the museums is not included. For museum visits, consider the Complete Pearl Harbor Experience tour.