Kaunakakai is a census-designated place in Maui County, Hawaii (United States). It is the largest town on Molokaʻi. The population was 3,419 at the 2020 census. It boasts the island’s largest harbor and Hawaii’s longest pier. Every year, countless travelers pass through this port. This might turn it into a vibrant economic and tourism hub.

Overview of Kaunakakai Port Cruise
Kaunakakai Cruise Port, located on the island of Molokai in Hawaii, is a small and serene port known for its authentic local culture and untouched natural landscapes. The port serves small cruise ships, expedition vessels, and inter-island ferries, offering travelers a quiet alternative to Hawaii’s more commercialized cruise destinations.
Kaunakakai Port Cruise’s overview is shown in the table below:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | United States (Hawaii) |
| Region | Island of Molokai |
| Coordinates | 21°05′47″ N, 157°01′44″ W |
| Port Type | Small local/expedition cruise port |
| Draft Depth | 7–9 meters |
| Harbor Type | Natural harbor with pier |
| Vessel Arrivals | Limited small cruise visits, inter-island ferry operations |
| Cruise Season | Year-round |
| Key Attractions | Kalaupapa National Historical Park, Kapuaiwa Coconut Grove, local beaches |
| Facilities | Basic docking, restrooms, small shops, tour operators |
| Accessibility | Accessible via Molokai Airport (MKK), approx. 13 km away |
| Currency Used | US Dollar (USD) |
| Language Spoken | English, Hawaiian |
What are the Port of Kaunakakai Cruise Terminals?
Kaunakakai Harbor is Molokai’s primary harbor, located on the island’s south side. It has Hawaii’s longest wharf, measuring 1,900 feet, and services both commercial and leisure vessels. Visitors arriving by ferry from Maui can dock here. The harbor also has facilities, a boat ramp, and restricted swimming access, with breathtaking views of Pier Island and the surrounding waters.
The following are the Kaunakakai Cruise Port Terminals:
- Kaunakakai Cruise Terminal AA
- Cruise Terminal A
- Kaunakakai Cruise Terminal B
- Cruise Terminal C
- Terminals D, E, as well as F
- Kaunakakai Cruise Terminal G
- Cruise Terminal J
- Kaunakakai Cruise Terminal V
Which are the Kaunakakai Cruise Lines?
While cruise lines frequently visit other Hawaiian ports, very few, if any, major cruise lines regularly stop at the small port of Kaunakakai. The most likely visitors are small expedition or luxury cruise lines that may include Molokai as part of a broader Hawaiian itinerary, such as Azamara Cruises or Ponant Cruises, although a direct search for current schedules is recommended for this specific port.
The following list contains Kaunakakai Cruise Lines and other related information:
| Cruise Line | Address | Contact Number |
|---|---|---|
| UnCruise Adventures | 3826 18th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98119, USA | +1 888-862-8881 |
| American Queen Voyages | 6001 Stars and Stripes Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70126, USA | +1 888-749-5280 |
| Lindblad Expeditions | 96 Morton St, New York, NY 10014, USA | +1 800-397-3348 |
| Silversea Cruises | 333 SE 2nd Ave, Suite 2600, Miami, FL 33131, USA | +1 888-978-4070 |
| Oceania Cruises | 7665 Corporate Center Dr, Miami, FL 33126, USA | +1 855-623-2642 |
Does the Cruise Port in Kaunakakai have Accessible Facilities?
The Kaunakakai cruise port’s accessibility is dependent on the cruise line, as the port itself lacks specific, detailed accessibility information. While many modern cruise ships offer accessible features onboard, including accessible cabins and assistance for guests with mobility issues, shore-side facilities at ports like Kaunakakai can pose challenges such as steep gangways, tidal conditions, or limited facilities for getting on and off the ship. Passengers should contact their specific cruise line well in advance to confirm what assistance is available for boarding and disembarking at Kaunakakai.
In case of the requirement of the following, the agents can help:
- Information in an accessible format
- An ADA-related concern
- Accommodation for a program or service
Additionally, Kaunakakai Cruise Port offers accessible parking for people with disabilities.
- Throughout at Kaunakakai Cruise Port Terminals, TTY/TDD phones are available.
- From here, callers who are deaf/hard of hearing can dial 711 to the Molokai Island Hawaii Relay Service.
- Along with these, at Kaunakakai Cruise Port, transit services and ground transportation are available for disabled persons.
Is There Parking Available at Kaunakakai Cruise Ship Port?
Yes, there is parking available at Kaunakakai Port, but it is primarily street parking along the road. There are no dedicated, official parking lots, but you can find space to park on the side of the road near the harbor.
Kaunakakai Port Parking at the South Side
- Multi-Level Garage J
- Multi-Level Garage K
Northside Kaunakakai Port Parking
- Multi-Level Garage AA
- Multi-Level Garage B
- Multi-Level Garage D
- Surface Lot D
- Multi-Level Garage G
- Surface Lot E
- Multi-Level Garage A
- Multi-Level Garage C
- Multi-Level Garage G
- Multi-Level Garage G
How to Reach Kaunakakai Cruise Port?
There are various transportation options available to reach Kaunakakai Port Cruise with ease. These include public transportation and private transit. Bus, Metrorail or metromover, and rail/train are some forms of public transportations. Further, rental cars, taxis, etc., are private transit available to reach Kaunakakai Cruise Port on time. In addition, shuttles and limos are accessible.
Note: For every transit, different rates and schedules are available.
How to Check the Port of Kaunakakai Cruise Schedule?
To check the most up-to-date Port of Kaunakakai Cruise schedule, online and offline ways are available. With an offline way, a passenger can make a call to the specific cruise line for details. Further, to check schedules online, one needs to visit the official website of the particular cruise line. Here, different schedules are available with varying locations and costs. One can make the same reservation based on necessity and budget.
What is the Map of Kaunakakai Cruise Port?
The configuration of the Port of Kaunakakai is depicted visually in the map of Kaunakakai Cruise Port. It displays its buildings and terminals. Travelers can use this map to plan their cruise experience, find amenities, and navigate the port. Additionally, it highlights parking amenities, transit choices, and neighboring attractions. This can make it a vital tool for them to leave Kaunakakai to take a cruise.
View All: Ports
Which Destinations are Served by Cruise Port in Kaunakakai?
The port at Kaunakakai on Molokai primarily serves ferries, local traffic, and freight, rather than major passenger cruise ships, which mainly dock at other Hawaiian ports like Honolulu or Nawiliwili. There is no consistent or large-scale passenger cruise ship service to the Kaunakakai port, so it doesn’t serve a wide range of destinations for cruise passengers.
Below are some destinations served by the Cruise Port in Kaunakakai:
| Destination | Description |
|---|---|
| Lahaina, Maui | Popular port with beaches, shopping, and whale-watching tours |
| Honolulu, Oahu | Hawaii’s capital with landmarks, culture, and world-class dining |
| Kailua-Kona, Big Island | Known for coffee farms, snorkeling, and volcanic landscapes |
| Hilo, Big Island | Gateway to waterfalls and Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park |
| Nawiliwili, Kauai | Scenic port with beaches and access to the Nā Pali Coast |
How to Contact a Cruise Port in Kaunakakai?
There are different ways available to contact a Kaunakakai Port Cruise. Visiting the port is one of the straightforward ways. This way is more suitable for domestic customers. Further, telephone numbers, FAX, emailing, and other ways are available to connect to Cruise Port in Kaunakakai. For disabled persons as well, specific contact numbers are accessible.
| Port Authority | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| Hawaii Department of Transportation – Harbors Division (Kaunakakai Harbor) | Kaunakakai Harbor, 715-36 Kaunakakai Place, Kaunakakai, HI 96748, USA |
| Phone | +1 808-587-2846 |
| Fax Number | +1 808-587-3652 |
| dot.harbors@hawaii.gov | |
| Website | https://hidot.hawaii.gov/harbors |
| Emergency Contact | 911 (National Emergency) |
| TTY | +1 808-692-3381 |
In Sum,
One of the main entry points for cruise travel is Kaunakakai Cruise Port. Sometimes referred to as PortKaunakakai provides convenient access to the Caribbean as well as cutting-edge terminals. It is among the busiest and most well-liked cruises in the globe because of its ideal locations, contemporary amenities, and effective operations. This can give passengers a smooth and thrilling beginning to their trips.
Frequently Asked Questions on Kaunakakai Cruise Port
Does Kaunakakai Cruise Port provide luggage storage lockers?
Is there a lost and found in Kaunakakai Port Cruise?
To which locations do ships depart from the Cruise Port in Kaunakakai?
What is the annual passenger volume of Kaunakakai Cruise Ship Port?
How does the Kaunakakai Cruise Port check-in procedure work?
Does Kaunakakai Cruise Port have any facilities for kids?
Where is Kaunakakai Cruise Port located?
What are the primary destinations for cruises departing from Kaunakakai Cruise Port?
Which cruise lines operate from Kaunakakai Cruise Port?
How far is Kaunakakai Cruise Port from Kaunakakai International Airport?
Which bridge connects Kaunakakai Cruise Port to downtown Kaunakakai?
Which terminal at Kaunakakai Cruise Port is specifically designed for mega cruise ships?
What facilities are available for travelers at Kaunakakai Cruise Port?
Can you park your vehicle at Kaunakakai Cruise Port?
What is the best way to reach Kaunakakai Cruise Port from downtown Kaunakakai?
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