Search Results forHawaii
Holland America Line Opens Bookings for 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii Cruises
Holland America Line, a premium cruise line renowned for its longer and destination-focused voyages, has announced the opening of bookings for its 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises. The cruises will depart from five North American homeports and sail on five different ships, offering a variety of new ports and ways to transit the Panama Canal. This season, six different Panama Canal cruises are on offer, including several firsts for the company. Most notably, the port of Acajutla, El Salvador, has been added to most Panama Canal sailings. Guests will also have the unique opportunity to sail aboard the Pinnacle-Class ship Koningsdam as she makes her inaugural transit through the canal. For those looking to transit the canal aboard Zuiderdam, new this season are departures from Miami. Voyages range from 15 to 22 days, catering to those seeking both shorter and longer vacations. “We know a Panama Canal transit is a once-in-a-lifetime experience many of our guests are seeking, and by adding Acajutla to select voyages, we’re making it even more memorable,” said Beth Bodensteiner, Holland America Line’s chief commercial officer. “Guests can discover the ‘Pompeii of the Americas’ with a shore excursion to Joya de Cerén archaeological site, where they’ll explore a Mayan farming village remarkably preserved under volcanic ash.” Nieuw Amsterdam will debut in Hawaii, cruising roundtrip itineraries from San Diego, California. Koningsdam and Zaandam will join the ship on island-hopping adventures that nearly all include an overnight at Honolulu, Hawaii’s iconic capital. Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises are offered from October 2025 through April 2026 and range from 15 to 22 days. Natural and man-made marvels are prominently featured on cruises to Hawaii and the Panama Canal. Guests can expect to see cascading waterfalls, ancient Mayan ruins, and the famous locks of the Panama Canal. Shore excursions are culturally immersive, showcasing the destinations’ natural beauty and rich history. The cuisine on board highlights local flavours with golden pineapple, locally sourced fresh fish like Pacific mahi-mahi, fresh homemade salsa, and other regional specialties sourced directly from port to plate. Highlights of the 2025-2026 Panama Canal Cruise Season: Panama Canal cruises are aboard Eurodam, Koningsdam and Zuiderdam. Cruises start or end in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Seattle, Washington; San Diego, California; or Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Guests enjoy a daylight transit of the Panama Canal, with commentary on the open decks detailing the amazing feat of the man-made marvel. Itineraries range from 15 to 22 days and include a combination of calls in Aruba, California, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Panama and Turks and Caicos. Several cruises offer multiple embarkation or disembarkation options, such as Fort Lauderdale to San Diego, Seattle, or Vancouver. Select Panama Canal sailings include a call at Acajutla, a new port for Holland America Line. This port offers excursions to remarkably preserved Mayan ruins, volcanoes, and cacao plantations and provides a gateway to see more of El Salvador, including San Salvador and Nahuizalco. Many Panama Canal cruises include a call at Half Moon Cay, Holland America Line’s award-winning private island in the Bahamas. Highlights of the 2025-2026 Hawaii Cruise Season: Cruises to Hawaii are aboard Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam. This will be Nieuw Amsterdam’s first season in Hawaii. Guests sailing aboard Nieuw Amsterdam will be able to experience the culinary delights of the ship’s newest restaurant, Morimoto by Sea. Guests sailing on Koningsdam or Zaandam can also share the restaurant menu during special pop-up dinners. Itineraries are roundtrip from San Diego, Vancouver, or Vancouver to San Diego. The 17-day “Circle Hawaii” from Vancouver to San Diego visits Nawiliwili, Kahului, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight), and Kona. The roundtrip from San Diego features either an overnight or late departure from Honolulu, a call to Ensenada, Mexico and more Hawaiian ports like Kona and Kahului. 18-day “Circle Hawaii” is roundtrip from San Diego or Vancouver and calls at Kahului, Hilo, Honolulu (overnight), Nawiliwili and Kona. Roundtrip San Diego adds a call at Ensenada, and roundtrip Vancouver includes Victoria, Canada. Have It All Booking Bonus For a limited time, guests who book select 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii cruises with the “Have It All” premium package will enjoy a host of amenities. These include shore excursions, specialty dining, a Signature Beverage Package, and Surf Wi-Fi. Additionally, guests will receive free prepaid Crew Appreciation and free upgrades to the Elite Beverage Package and Premium Wi-Fi. Terms and conditions apply. The post Holland America Line Opens Bookings for 2025-2026 Panama Canal and Hawaii Cruises first appeared on Stray Nomad Travel News.
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines to merge in US$1.9 Billion deal
Photo: Hawaiian Airlines Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian have announced that they have reached a final agreement. As a result, Alaska Airlines will acquire Hawaiian Airlines for $18.00 per share in cash. The total transaction value is around $1.9 billion, which includes $0.9 billion of net debt from Hawaiian Airlines. With the merger, customers will have access to more destinations and a more comprehensive range of essential air service options across the Pacific, the continental US, and the world. Environmental responsibility, long-term employment prospects for employees, sustained investment in local communities, and a better foundation for development and competitiveness in the United States are all anticipated outcomes of the transaction. If given the go-ahead by regulators, the combination of the two companies is expected to increase the competitiveness of both brands in the highly competitive US airline market, particularly in areas that depend significantly on air travel, such as the 49th and 50th states in the US, Alaska, and Hawai’i. In making the announcement, Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Holdings empathised that both brands’ unique cultures would be preserved and built upon. As members of the same airline alliance, oneworld, the two airlines could streamline their operations and provide customers with more worldwide connections if they merged. Currently, 54.7 million passengers are served annually by the two airlines combined. “This combination is an exciting next step in our collective journey to provide a better travel experience for our guests and expand options for West Coast and Hawai’i travellers,” Minicucci said. “We have a longstanding and deep respect for Hawaiian Airlines, their role as a top employer in Hawai’i, and how their brand and people carry the warm culture of aloha around the globe. “Our two airlines are powered by incredible employees, with 90+ year legacies and values grounded in caring for the special places and people we serve. “I am grateful to the more than 23,000 Alaska Airlines employees who are proud to have served Hawai’i for over 16 years, and we are fully committed to investing in the communities of Hawai’i and maintaining robust neighbour Island service that Hawaiian Airlines travellers have come to expect. “We look forward to deepening this stewardship as our airlines come together while providing unmatched value to customers, employees, communities and owners.” “Since 1929, Hawaiian Airlines has been an integral part of life in Hawai ‘i, and together with Alaska Airlines, we will be able to deliver more for our guests, employees and the communities we serve,” said Peter Ingram, Hawaiian Airlines President, and CEO. “In Alaska Airlines, we are joining an airline that has long served Hawai‘i and has a complementary network and a shared culture of service. With the additional scale and resources that this transaction with Alaska Airlines brings, we will be able to accelerate investments in our guest experience and technology while maintaining the Hawaiian Airlines brand. “We are also pleased to deliver significant, immediate, and compelling value to our shareholders through this all-cash transaction. Together, Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines can bring our authentic brands of hospitality to more of the world while continuing to serve our valued local communities.” The combination of complementing domestic, international, and freight networks is positioned to increase competition and improve choice for West Coast and Hawaiian Islands customers through: Preserving outstanding brands: The combined airline will maintain both the industry-leading Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines brands while integrating into a single operating platform, enabling customers to enjoy the exceptional service and hospitality of each while upholding the operational reliability, trust, and guest satisfaction for which both companies have been consistently recognised. An improved product offering for a wide range of consumers: The merger preserves and expands high-quality, best-in-class product offerings with price points to make air travel more accessible to a wide range of consumers across a range of cabin classes, including more choice between Alaska Airlines’ high-value, low-fare options and Hawaiian Airlines’ international and long-haul product on par with network carriers. Complementary networks expand travel options: Passengers travelling throughout the Continental United States, the West Coast of the United States, and across the Pacific will benefit from more choice and increased connectivity across both airlines’ networks, with service to 138 destinations, including nonstop service to 29 top international destinations in the Americas, Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific, and combined access to over 1,200 destinations through the oneworld Alliance. Expanded service for Hawai’i residents: The combination will increase service and convenience by tripling the number of destinations in North America that can be reached nonstop or with one stop from the Islands while maintaining robust Neighbour Island service and increasing air cargo capacity. Strategic Honolulu hub: With one-stop service through Hawai’i, Honolulu will become a key Alaska Airlines hub, offering greater international connectivity for West Coast passengers across the Asia-Pacific region. Expanded loyalty programme benefits: The transaction will provide Hawaiian Airlines’ loyalty members with enhanced benefits through the combined airline’s industry-leading loyalty programme, such as the ability to earn and redeem miles on 29 global partners and receive elite benefits on the full complement of oneworld Alliance airlines, expanded global lounge access, and benefits of the combined program’s co-brand credit card. Both airline boards have approved the transaction agreement. The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals, shareholder approval from Hawaiian Holdings, Inc. (expected in the first quarter of 2024), and other usual closing conditions. It is expected to be completed within 12-18 months. Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci will run the merged organisation from its Seattle headquarters. To focus on integration planning, a dedicated leadership team will be formed.
Oceania Cruises Adds Seven 2025 Summer French Polynesia and Hawaii Sailings
Oceania Cruises has announced seven additional exotic summer sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii in 2025 on board the 670-guest boutique hotel-style Regatta, which will go on sale on 4 October 2023. Sailing with Oceania Cruises is the best way to see these breathtaking places, providing a utopia of cultural exchanges, unique excursions, and stunning surroundings. The new cruises will visit French Polynesia and Hawaii during the peak months of August, September, and October, when the islands enjoy plenty of sunlight, pleasant temperatures, and reduced humidity. Itineraries include the beautiful blue lagoon of Bora Bora, Tahiti’s black sand beaches, the colourful coral reefs of Raiatea, the soaring mountains in the green rainforests of Nuku Hiva, and more. Four of the seven new sailings connect French Polynesia to the Hawaiian archipelago’s captivating craters, spectacular gorges, and lush waterfalls. Oceania Cruises offers comprehensive itineraries that allow you to understand the traditions of native Polynesian culture, taste the fresh flavours of local food, and see the local communities and surrounding natural marvels. “At Oceania Cruises, we offer a captivating array of sailings in French Polynesia and Hawaii, charting lesser-known coastlines and taking travellers to boutique ports and off-the-beaten-track islands thanks to our small, luxurious ships,” said Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “Food is unquestionably one of the highlights of these parts of the world.” “Whether visiting Bora Bora and Nuku Hiva or Nawiliwili and Hilo, the flavours of these islands are meant to be savoured and enjoyed just as much as the spectacular scenery,” Del Rio continued. The seven new voyages vary from 10 to 18 days and depart from Tahiti or Honolulu, offering plenty of time for exploration, adventure, and leisure in these spectacular corners of the world. While Tahiti may appear a world away, Papeete is easily accessible by air from New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Sydney, with comfortable 8-hour non-stop flights from Los Angeles and 5-hour non-stop flights from Auckland. Similarly, Honolulu is just a 6-hour direct trip from Los Angeles and an 8-and-a-half-hour direct flight from Auckland. In addition to the seven additional sailings onboard Regatta in 2025, Oceania Cruises offers dozens of other destination-rich itineraries throughout the South Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand in 2024 and 2025. NEW SUMMER SAILINGS IN 2025 Polynesian Dreams: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Lahaina, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora, and Papeete. Departs 1 August and 15 September 2025, which offers the itinerary in reverse. Tahitian Legends: 10 days from Papeete to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Papeete, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora and Raiatea. Departs 16 and 26 August and 5 September 2025. Divine Pacific Oases: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kahului, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora, and Papeete. Departs 30 September 2025. Song of Polynesia: 18 days from Papeete to Los Angeles aboard Regatta, visiting Papeete, Moorea, Rangiroa, Nuku Hiva, Hilo, Lahaina, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and Los Angeles. Departs 15 October 2025.
Oceania Cruises announces seven new 2025 Summer Sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii
Oceania Cruises has announced seven new exotic summer sailings to French Polynesia and Hawaii on board the 670-guest boutique hotel-style Regatta in 2025, which will open for reservations on 4 October 2023. Sailing with Oceania Cruises is the ultimate way to visit these stunning destinations that offer a utopia of cultural encounters, memorable adventures, and pristine natural surroundings. The new cruises will visit French Polynesia and Hawaii during the ideal months of August, September and October when the regions boast abundant sunshine, pleasant, balmy temperatures and lower humidity. Itineraries span the gorgeous blue lagoon of Bora Bora, the black sand beaches of Tahiti, the colourful coral reefs of Raiatea, the soaring mountains in the verdant jungles of Nuku Hiva and more. Four of the seven new sailings link French Polynesia with the captivating craters, dramatic canyons and lush waterfalls of the Hawaiian archipelago. With Oceania Cruises, you can experience the paradise of these islands firsthand on immersive itineraries, discovering the traditions of native Polynesian culture, tasting the fresh flavours of the local cuisine, and exploring the local communities and surrounding natural wonders. “At Oceania Cruises, we offer a captivating array of sailings in French Polynesia and Hawaii, charting lesser-known coastlines and taking travelers to boutique ports and off-the-beaten-track islands thanks to our small, luxurious ships,” commented Frank A. Del Rio, President of Oceania Cruises. “One of the highlights of these parts of the world is undoubtedly the food. Whether you’re exploring Bora Bora and Nuku Hiva or Nawiliwili and Hilo, the flavors of these islands are meant to be savored and enjoyed just as much as the spectacular scenery.” Sailing from Tahiti or Honolulu, the seven new voyages range from 10 to 18 days, allowing plenty of time for exploration, adventure, and relaxation in these stunning regions of the world. While Tahiti may feel worlds away, the gateway of Papeete is readily accessible by flight from New York, Los Angeles, Paris, London, and Sydney with convenient 8-hour non-stop flights from Los Angeles and 5-hour non-stop flights out of Auckland. Similarly, Honolulu is just a 6-hour direct flight away from Los Angeles and an 8 ½-hour direct flight from Auckland. In addition to the seven new sailings aboard Regatta in 2025, there are dozens of other destination-rich itineraries to choose from in the South Pacific, as well as Australia and New Zealand, in 2024 and 2025 with Oceania Cruises. NEW SUMMER SAILINGS IN 2025 Polynesian Dreams: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Lahaina, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs 1 August and 15 September 2025, which offers the itinerary in reverse. Tahitian Legends: 10 days from Papeete to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Papeete, Moorea, Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Bora Bora and Raiatea. Departs August 16 and 26, and 5 September 2025. Divine Pacific Oases: 15 days from Honolulu to Papeete aboard Regatta, visiting Honolulu, Nawiliwili, Kahului, Kailua-Kona, Hilo, Nuku Hiva, Rangiroa, Raiatea, Bora Bora and Papeete. Departs 30 September 2025. Song of Polynesia: 18 days from Papeete to Los Angeles aboard Regatta, visiting Papeete, Moorea, Rangiroa, Nuku Hiva, Hilo, Lahaina, Honolulu, Nawiliwili and Los Angeles. Departs 15 October 2025. REGATTA SHIPBOARD HIGHLIGHTS Carrying just 670 guests, Regatta provides a boutique experience for travellers to explore the region, with itineraries designed to offer a unique flavour of the South Pacific. Guests will experience the ultimate in small ship luxury, with just 340 lavish suites and luxurious staterooms, nearly 70% of which feature private verandas. Lose yourself in one of the hundreds of books in the top-of-ship library, relax and rejuvenate in the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center or socialise with old and new friends in one of the eight lounges and bars on board. After dinner in one of the four gourmet, open-seating restaurants, take in a show or spend the evening in the casino. EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH FRENCH POLYNESIA & HAWAII One of the best ways to delve into the local island culture is through food, and both French Polynesia and Hawaii serve up some mouth-watering specialties, exotic dishes and delicious delicacies. Try poisson cru: French Polynesia’s version of ceviche, this dish features local raw fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice, often with vegetables. You’ll have plenty of chances to try it on a variety of excursions, and you’ll regularly see it on local menus. The mahi mahi burger and a mai tai at Bloody Mary’s in Bora Bora are not to be missed. The thatched-roof restaurant with sand floors has served well-known faces including Jimmy Buffet, Ronnie Wood of The Rolling Stones and movie star couple Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell – it’s an experience to remember. Don’t pass on the breadfruit: Called uru in Tahitian, this strangely versatile starch will appear on the table prepared in more ways than you can keep track of and is quintessentially French Polynesian. A staple form on Nuku Hiva involves roasting it over hot coals and then mashing it with coconut milk to create a dish called kaka. You can’t visit Hawaii without trying traditional poke, a raw fish bowl favoured for its simplicity and freshness. Though all sorts of variations have become popular the world over, try ahi poke or tako poke – octopus – in its birthplace for a true taste of the classic dish. A must-have at luaus, kalua pork is another Hawaiian favourite you’ll find across the islands. The traditional method of slow roasting the pork in an imu, or underground pit, and seasoning it with local sea salt results in a succulent, smoky meat typically paired with rice and sauteed cabbage or coleslaw. DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS Bora Bora, French Polynesia, one of the most photogenic islands, is dominated by two peaks – Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia – both more than 2,000 feet high. Covered in emerald greenery, they create a dramatic backdrop for Bora Bora’s shimmering lagoon, renowned for its breathtaking turquoise water. Under the sea, the reef encircling the island is a haven for a rainbow of exotic fish and turtles. Explore Bora Bora’s dazzling lagoon, go on a guided off-road adventure across the island or see sharks and stingrays from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. Papeete, Tahiti, is the capital of French Polynesia, with clear blue waters, swaying palm trees, balmy weather and rich island culture. Enjoy a wide variety of restaurants and the best shopping in the region – be sure to look out for exquisite hand-carved wooden figurines and bowls as well as colourful patchwork textiles called tifaifai, appliqued quilts that are often handed down for generations. Feeling energetic? Then be sure to hike inland a couple of miles to Fautaua Waterfall, Tahiti’s highest at an incredible 443 feet. Learn about the iridescence and luster of pearls at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum or take a walking tour of the colourful and creative street art and murals painted by talented international artists. Hilo, Hawaii, is on the east coast of the Big Island and is renowned for its lush greenery. See how the 2018 reawakening of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire and volcanoes, has changed the landscape at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Thrill seekers can choose from excursions such as a helicopter ride to Kilauea Volcano or zip-lining through a river gorge. Or for those who want to take it easier, a visit to Richardson Ocean Park, a black sand beach carved into the rocky shoreline, or a stroll through farmers markets with aisles of colourful fruits, vegetables and flowers, would be perfect. Kailua-Kona on Hawaii has a laid-back vibe and myriad things to do: roam a national park, swim or snorkel in the sea, or play a round of golf at one of three courses overlooking the ocean. Visit Mountain Thunder Coffee Plantation to learn about different beans and roasts and sample some of the aromatic fresh brews. Experience Magic Sands Beach, a beautiful stretch of turquoise water and white sand – when it’s there. It’s named Magic Sands Beach because every so often a big storm will take all the sand out to sea, exposing rock until the sandy beach is returned by the sea over time. simply MORE™ Oceania Cruises offers travellers simply MORE, with virtually everything included in the voyage fare: free shore excursions up to the value of $USD 1,600 per stateroom, a free beverage package valued at up to US$800 including Champagne, premium wines and international beers for all guests, free pre-paid gratuities, free gourmet specialty dining, and free unlimited wifi, on all new reservations for sailings departing 1 October 2023, or later. Created to elevate the guest experience, simply MORE means travellers receive the greatest value in luxury cruising. For additional information on Oceania Cruises’ small-ship luxury product, exquisitely crafted cuisine, and expertly curated travel experiences, visit OceaniaCruises.com, call Oceania Cruises on 1300 355 200 (Australia), 0800 625 691 (NZ) or speak with a professional travel advisor.
Vacation Rental in Hawaii: Compare
Vacation rentals across Hawaiʻi reported increases in supply and average daily rate (ADR), with lower demand and occupancy, in June 2023 compared to June 2022. In 2021 vacation rentals were outrunning traditional hotels in the Aloha State. In comparison to pre-pandemic June 2019, ADR was higher in June 2023, but vacation rental supply, demand, and occupancy were lower. The State of Hawai‘i Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) issued today the Hawai‘i Vacation Rental Performance Report for the month of June utilizing data compiled by Transparent Intelligence, Inc. In June 2023, the total monthly supply of statewide vacation rentals was 768,200 unit nights (+23.6% vs. 2022, -13.3% vs. 2019) and monthly demand was 417,600 unit nights (-3.5% vs. 2022, -36.1% vs. 2019) (Figures 1 and 2). This combination resulted in an average monthly unit occupancy of 54.4 percent (-15.3 percentage points vs. 2022, -19.3 percentage points vs. 2019) for June. Occupancy for Hawai‘i’s hotels was 76.7 percent in June 2023. The ADR for vacation rental units statewide in June was $303 (+2.5% vs. 2022, +48.8% vs. 2019). By comparison, the ADR for hotels was $389 in June 2023. It is important to note that, unlike hotels, units in vacation rentals are not necessarily available year-round or each day of the month and often accommodate a larger number of guests than traditional hotel rooms. The data in DBEDT’s Hawai‘i Vacation Rental Performance Report specifically excludes units reported in Hawai‘i Tourism Authority’s Hawai‘i Hotel Performance Report and Hawai‘i Timeshare Quarterly Survey Report. A vacation rental is defined as the use of a rental house, condominium unit, private room in a private home, or shared room/space in a private home. This report does not determine or differentiate between units that are permitted or unpermitted. The legality of any given vacation rental unit is determined on a county basis. Island Highlights In June 2023, Maui County had the largest vacation rental supply at 246,200 available unit nights (+15.8% vs. 2022, -10.6% vs. 2019). Unit demand was 146,300 unit nights (-8.5% vs. 2022, -31.6% vs. 2019), resulting in 59.4 percent occupancy (-15.8 percentage points vs. 2022, -18.2 percentage points vs. 2019) and ADR at $356 (+4.2% vs. 2022, +53.2% vs. 2019). For June 2023, Maui County hotels reported ADR at $623 and occupancy of 67.2 percent. O‘ahu had 211,300 available unit nights in June (+22.2% vs. 2022, -30.0% vs. 2019). Unit demand was 119,200 unit nights (+2.5% vs. 2022, -47.2% vs. 2019), resulting in 56.4 percent occupancy (-10.9 percentage points vs. 2022, -18.4 percentage points vs. 2019) with ADR at $242 (+11.0% vs. 2022, +40.2% vs. 2019). In comparison, O‘ahu hotels reported ADR at $291 and occupancy of 82.9 percent for June 2023. The island of Hawai‘i vacation rental supply was 194,300 available unit nights (+26.0% vs. 2022, +1.7% vs. 2019) in June. Unit demand was 90,300 unit nights (-7.0% vs. 2022, -27.1% vs. 2019), resulting in 46.5 percent occupancy (-16.5 percentage points vs. 2022, -18.4 percentage points vs. 2019) with ADR at $245 (-0.9% vs. 2022, +51.2% vs. 2019). Hawai‘i Island hotels reported ADR at $410 and occupancy of 69.7 percent. Kaua‘i had the fewest number of available vacation rental unit nights in June at 116,400 (+42.1% vs. 2022, -1.2% vs. 2019). Unit demand was 61,800 unit nights (+3.9% vs. 2022, -30.9% vs. 2019), resulting in 53.1 percent occupancy (-19.5 percentage points vs. 2022, -22.8 percentage points vs. 2019) with ADR at $378 (-5.5% vs. 2022, +40.6% vs. 2019). Kaua‘i hotels reported ADR at $434 and occupancy of 74.8 percent. First Half 2023 For the first half of 2023, Hawai‘i vacation rental supply was 4.2 million unit nights (+19.4% vs. 2022, -12.2% vs. 2019) and demand was 2.5 million unit nights (-1.2% vs. 2022, -31.9% vs. 2019). The average daily unit rate for the first half of 2023 was $314 (+7.2% vs. 2022, +51.0% vs. 2019). Statewide vacation rental occupancy for the first half of 2023 was 58.7 percent (-17.2 percentage points vs. 2022, -22.4 percentage points vs. 2019). In comparison, statewide hotel ADR for the first half of 2023 was $380 and occupancy was 74.9 percent. Tables of vacation rental performance statistics, including data presented in the report, are available for viewing online at: http://dbedt.hawaii.gov/visitor/vacation-rental-performance/ About the Hawaiʻi Vacation Rental Performance Report The Hawai‘i Vacation Rental Performance Report is produced using data compiled by Transparent Intelligence, Inc., which was selected by DBEDT as the provider for these data services.Vacation Rental in Hawaii: Compare Copyright: eTurboNews | eTN - World Travel & Tourism Industry News
New Board Members at Hawaii Tourism Authority
eTurboNews: The Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) announced the appointments of two new members to serve on its Board of Directors – airline industry veteran and community leader Blaine Miyasato and long-time public servant James Kunane Tokioka. The new members were sworn in at today’s special board meeting. Blaine Miyasato is the Managing Director, State Government Affairs at Hawaiian Airlines with nearly 40 years of experience in the airline industry. He was Hawaiian Airlines’ first Vice President of In-Flight Services and the first rank-and-file employee on its executive team. Miyasato brings a breadth of experience across multiple disciplines including marketing, advertising, promotions, brand management, product development, and business process improvement. Born and raised in Hawaii, he began his career at Hawaiian Airlines as a flight attendant in 1985 and thereafter was appointed to key management positions of increasing responsibility. James Kunane Tokioka is the Director of the Hawaii State Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. Most recently, he served as the Deputy Director for the Hawaii State Department of Transportation’s Airports Division. Tokioka began his political career as a member of the Kauai County Council in 1996, where he served for 10 years. He then went on to serve for 16 years as a member of the Hawaii State House of Representatives. Prior to his public service, Tokioka worked his way through the hospitality industry, both in Hawaii and across the United States, doing everything from bussing tables to managing hotels and owning restaurants. “We are excited to welcome Blaine and James, two highly respected individuals, who bring a great deal of knowledge, experience, and a personal passion for elevating communities statewide to our diverse board of directors,” said Daniel Nāhoʻopiʻi, HTA’s Chief Administrative Officer. “We are grateful for their commitment to helping HTA balance the well-being of all residents and place with meaningful economic, environmental and cultural benefits that are essential in our pursuit for a regenerative tourism model for Hawaii.” HTA’s Board of Directors is a policy-making entity comprised of 12 members appointed by the Governor of Hawaii. Board members serve as volunteers, guiding HTA’s work in holistically managing tourism and fulfilling HTA’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan and interacting pillars – community, natural resources, Hawaiian culture, and branding. The new HTA board members’ terms commenced on July 7, 2023. They replace outgoing board members George Kam who served on the board since 2015 and as board chair since 2021, and Keone Downing, an expert waterman and operator of Downing Hawai’i, who served on the board since 2021. “On behalf of our HTA ‘ohana, we extend a warm mahalo nui to George and Keone for the countless hours they invested in steering our organization and Hawaii’s tourism industry through the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery that followed,” said Mike White, vice chair of the board. “We appreciate and thank them for their service to the people of Hawaii and their valuable contributions to our work ensuring the Hawaii brand held strong in our key markets, while driving forth the Destination Management Action Plans that are benefiting each island today.” Read more: New Board Members at Hawaii Tourism Authority Copyright: eTurboNews is Travel Industry News - Travel & Tourism Story Telling Exposed
skyticket launches Japan’s first Direct Connection Air Ticket Sales via Hawaiian Airlines’ NDC
Adventure, Inc, powering “skyticket”, an air ticket reservations website, and Hawaiian Airlines, Inc. have entered into a distribution agreement via direct connection for "NDC”, a new distribution standard for the sale of air tickets. The direct NDC connection between the Hawaiian Airlines reservation system and skyticket reservation system will allow for quick confirmation of airfares and seat availability, optimal fares through the NDC connection, and ancillary services such as upgraded seat selection (charges apply) tailored to meet the needs of users. The system also enables full automation of reservations. The fully automated reservation process is expected to increase the closing rate and user satisfaction. With the conclusion of the agreement with Hawaiian Airlines, the number of NDC direct connection agreements has reached a cumulative total of 5 airlines. Adventure, Inc. continues to actively pursue the introduction of NDC, aiming to provide all our worldwide users with more convenient and user-friendly services.
OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels expands beachfront portfolio with new Kaua‘i Resort in Hawaii
OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels has announced that it will be investing further in its home market of Hawaii with a planned acquisition at Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa. Located in the town of Līhu‘e on the ‘Garden Island’ of Kaua‘i, the resort spans 25 lush acres of beachfront property and features 350 guestrooms with unparalleled ocean views. The transaction is expected to be completed and close on 22 August, 2023. Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa, once acquired, will represent an important milestone in OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels' ongoing expansion efforts – offering guests a full-service resort on all four of the major Hawaiian Islands. Jeff Wagoner “OUTRIGGER’s legacy in Hawaii spans 75 years; we remain committed to being exceptional stewards of this special place and its rich cultural heritage, while contributing to the prosperity of the local community,” said Jeff Wagoner, President and CEO of OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels. “Kaua‘i Beach Resort & Spa was managed by OUTRIGGER in the ‘90s, so this transition feels like a welcome home – we look forward to further enhancing the property for both our guests and hosts,” added Wagoner. This news comes on the heels of last month’s announcement that OUTRIGGER will be the new steward of Kā‘anapali Beach Hotel on Maui. It will be the seventh acquisition that the company has made in the last two years here in Hawaii, Thailand and the Maldives. The OUTRIGGER brand is renowned for its premier beach locations, must-see beach bars, authentic live music, signature experiences and a commitment to conservation.
Aloha Hawaii Tourism Authority Leader
eTurboNews: His contract, therefore, concludes on September 15, 2023. De Fries made the announcement to the Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) Board of Directors during a special board meeting today. The board invited De Fries to consider an extension of his contract in a March 30, 2023, meeting. Following the conclusion of the legislative session, De Fries informed the board on May 9 that he would decline that extension. “It has been an honor to serve the communities and people of our islands these past three years and I will support the board and staff during this transition in leadership of HTA,” said De Fries. “I am incredibly proud of our passionate, unwavering team of professionals at HTA and all that is being accomplished in our communities to improve the well-being of Hawaii. I extend my gratitude to the HTA Board for their support of our critical work in accelerating HTA’s focus on improved destination management and increased visitor education and changing our collective outlook toward tourism for the long-term benefit of our kama‘āina, our native culture, and the places we hold dear throughout Hawaii. I’d also like to thank the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Legislature for working together and making it possible for HTA to continue its work in the coming fiscal year.” De Fries took the helm of HTA to lead Hawaii’s visitor industry in September 2020 amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic and state’s self-quarantine requirement for travelers at a time when visitor spending and arrivals were nearly at a standstill. In September 2020, visitor arrivals were down 97.4 percent with only 18,868 visitors as compared to September 2019. Building on HTA’s 2020-2025 Strategic Plan which articulated the need for destination management, under De Fries’ leadership, HTA developed three-year Destination Management Action Plans for each island. This community-first, community-led approach to rebuilding, redefining, and resetting tourism is making positive strides as HTA works in collaboration with fellow government agencies, visitor industry partners, and community members toward a regenerative model of tourism for all of Hawaii. De Fries also led an operational restructuring beginning in June 2021, continuing HTA’s pivot from an agency that was primarily focused on marketing through Hawaii Revised Statute 201B to a more effective destination management organization. HTA Board Chair George Kam credited De Fries for putting tourism on a new course and doing so at a time when the industry was facing its greatest economic challenge in decades. “John has done an admirable job fulfilling his three-year contract during the most challenging period in recent Hawaii history. At a time when we needed a strong, visionary leader to calmly guide us forward out of troubling circumstances, John was there for HTA.” Together with numerous community and industry partners throughout the state, HTA continues to mindfully guide and support the implementation of destination management to advance a regenerative model of tourism, helping to resuscitate Hawaii’s economy well ahead of projections. In the first four months of 2023, total visitor spending increased significantly by 21.7 percent to $7.09 billion despite fewer arrivals compared to the pre-pandemic first four months of 2019, continuing the trend of higher visitor spending with fewer visitors to Hawaii. SubscribePrintEmailTwitterFacebookLinkedInTelegramWhatsAppVKMessengerSMSRedditFlipboardPinterestTumblrXingBufferHacker NewsLineMixPocketYummlyCopy Read more: Aloha Hawaii Tourism Authority Leader Copyright: eTurboNews is Travel Industry News - Travel & Tourism Story Telling Exposed
New Vice President at Hawaii Tourism Authority
by: Juergen T Steinmetz | Isaac Choy has been appointed Vice President of Finance for the Hawaii Tourism Authority. Choy begins work on April 10 and will oversee HTA’s management of finances and government funding, including compliance with legislative and auditing requirements and budgeting of programs, initiatives, and community organizations supported statewide by HTA. A Certified Public Accountant with his accounting practice since 1983, Choy brings extensive experience to HTA’s operations in management, taxation, accounting and auditing, and the servicing of public, government, and not-for-profit organizations. He most recently served as Director of the Hawai‘i State Department of Taxation from 2020 through 2022. Choy was elected to five terms in the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives, serving the Mānoa district from 2008 through 2018. He chaired the House Committee on Higher Education and also served on the committees overseeing tourism, finance, economic development, military affairs, and agriculture. After choosing not to run for re-election, Choy served as controller of a local health center from 2018 to 2020 before being appointed as the Hawai‘i State Tax Director. “Isaac Choy’s reputation as a devoted public servant and his credentials in finance will be extremely valuable in helping HTA to fulfill its focus on managing tourism for the benefit of Hawai‘i’s future generations,” said John De Fries, HTA’s President, and CEO. “His experience and understanding of the workings of the executive and legislative branches of government are a rarity, and we are privileged to have him come aboard to support HTA.” Choy noted that he welcomed the opportunity to offer his expertise to the state’s only agency solely dedicated to serving Hawai‘i’s largest industry. “Public service has been at the core of my personal and professional life and I believe it is important that HTA receives the guidance and support needed to ensure that tourism will continue to serve Hawai‘i properly and effectively,” said Choy. “I’m impressed by the leadership team that HTA has in place and energized about what HTA is trying to accomplish for the communities and people of Hawai‘i.” Choy is active in numerous community organizations, including the Honolulu Community Action Program, Mānoa Neighborhood Security Watch, and community disaster preparedness organizations. He is also involved in business and professional organizations and has served as State President of the Hawaiʻi Association of Public Accountants. He has also participated in youth sports, coaching baseball, basketball, and softball for over a decade. A lifelong member of the Mānoa community, Choy graduated from Roosevelt High School and San Jose State University. Full article: New Vice President at Hawaii Tourism Authority Copyright: eTurboNews - Travel Industry News - World Travel News
Hawaii Ocean Rafting
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Join the conversation where deals get done at AHICE South East Asia 2025 Monday 24, Tuesday 25 & Wednesday 26 February 2025 Pan Pacific Singapore