Visiting Pearl Harbor is a somber yet impactful experience, and the ‘From Big Island: Pearl Harbor Tour’ give you a comprehensive and personalized excursion. Though the full-day itinerary may seem daunting, the tour’s small group size and knowledgeable guide offer an immersive exploration of this historic site. With convenient round-trip transportation and curated highlights, the tour appears to strike a balance between convenience and authenticity. However, the specific attire and bag storage requirements suggest a heightened level of organization and attention to detail. Whether this tour lives up to its promise remains to be seen, but the potential for a meaningful and well-executed experience is certainly present.
Key Points
- The tour departs from Kona International Airport on the Big Island and includes transportation to Oahu via airplane and bus.
- The 11-hour tour includes exploration of the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, USS Arizona Memorial, USS Bowfin Submarine, and USS Missouri Battleship.
- The tour offers a small group size of up to 12 participants for a personalized experience, led by a live English-speaking guide.
- Participants must adhere to the dress code and bag storage requirements to ensure a respectful atmosphere at the Pearl Harbor site.
- The tour includes comprehensive site visits, round-trip transportation, and gratuities, with a flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
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Tour Overview
The Pearl Harbor Tour from the Big Island offers visitors an immersive 11-hour experience, with a small group size limited to 12 participants and a live English-speaking guide.
Departing from Kona International Airport, the tour includes inter-island transportation by airplane and bus, providing convenient access to the historic Pearl Harbor site.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo Battleship, the Bowfin Submarine, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, gaining a deeper understanding of this pivotal moment in history.
Plus, the tour includes a sightseeing excursion through historic Honolulu, showcasing landmarks such as Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha Statue, and Chinatown.
With round-trip transportation and gratuities included, this Pearl Harbor Tour offers an immersive and hassle-free experience.
Itinerary
Departing from Kona International Airport on the Big Island, the tour whisks visitors away by airplane for a 45-minute flight to Oahu, where they then board a bus for a 15-minute commute to the historic Pearl Harbor site.
Visitors will explore the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, pay their respects at the USS Arizona Memorial, and tour the USS Bowfin Submarine and the USS Missouri Battleship.
The itinerary also includes a sightseeing tour of historic Honolulu, featuring landmarks like Iolani Palace, the King Kamehameha Statue, the State Capitol, and Chinatown.
Key Highlights
Exploring Pearl Harbor and its historic sites forms the core of this comprehensive tour, offering visitors an immersive experience in the events that shaped the nation’s history. Guests will visit the iconic USS Arizona Memorial, which stands as a poignant reminder of the attack that propelled the United States into World War II. The tour also includes a visit to the "Mighty Mo" Battleship USS Missouri, where the Japanese surrender was signed, as well as the Bowfin Submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, which showcase the technological advancements of the era. Complementing these historic sites, the tour also features a sightseeing excursion through the streets of historic Honolulu.
| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| USS Arizona Memorial | A poignant reminder of the attack that launched the US into WWII |
| USS Missouri | The battleship where the Japanese surrender was signed |
| Bowfin Submarine | A showcase of the technological advancements of the era |
| Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum | Exhibits highlighting the aviation history of the Pacific Theater |
Inclusions
This comprehensive Pearl Harbor tour from the Big Island includes round-trip transportation and gratuities, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for participants.
The tour covers all the essential sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, the Mighty Mo Battleship, the Bowfin Submarine, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
By including the gratuities, travelers don’t have to worry about additional out-of-pocket expenses, making it a convenient and all-inclusive option.
The tour’s small group size, limited to 12 participants, also ensures a more personalized and intimate experience.
Attire Requirements
Appropriate and respectful attire is required for the Pearl Harbor tour, as visitors aren’t permitted to wear swimsuits, high heels, or bring large bags onto the historic sites. This dress code ensures a respectful and appropriate atmosphere for honoring the memory of those who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor.
Tour participants should opt for comfortable, conservative clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Closed-toe shoes are also recommended for the walking involved.
Bag storage is available for a fee, allowing visitors to leave behind any prohibited items. Adhering to these attire guidelines allows for a meaningful and uninterrupted experience at this solemn and historic destination.
Bag Storage
For a fee, visitors can store any prohibited items at the bag storage facility located near the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. This service allows guests to leave behind bags, backpacks, and other large items that aren’t permitted inside the historic sites.
The storage lockers provide a secure and convenient option, ensuring visitors can fully experience the Pearl Harbor tour without the burden of carrying restricted belongings. Rates for bag storage are reasonable, making it an accessible option for all travelers.
Cancellation Policy
The cancellation policy for the Pearl Harbor tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and convenience for travelers.
This is a considerate policy that acknowledges the unpredictable nature of travel plans. Customers can book with confidence, knowing they won’t be penalized for unforeseen circumstances that may arise.
The free cancellation period gives travelers ample time to make adjustments to their itinerary if needed. This policy demonstrates the tour operator’s commitment to customer satisfaction and understanding of the realities of travel.
Duration and Transportation
The Pearl Harbor tour is an 11-hour excursion that transports participants from the Big Island to Oahu via airplane and coach.
Guests depart from Kona International Airport and embark on a 45-minute flight to Honolulu, followed by a 15-minute bus ride to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. This efficient interisland transportation allows for a comprehensive exploration of the historic site and surrounding Honolulu landmarks.
The tour includes:
- A visit to the USS Arizona Memorial, where visitors can pay respects to the fallen.
- A tour of the USS Bowfin Submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum.
- An opportunity to explore the majestic USS Missouri Battleship.
- A sightseeing tour of historic Honolulu, including Iolani Palace and Chinatown.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Combine This Tour With Other Activities on Oahu?
Yes, the Pearl Harbor tour can be combined with other activities on Oahu. Visitors can extend their stay and explore Oahu’s beaches, hikes, and cultural attractions after the tour. However, this may require additional planning and reservations.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Water/Snacks?
No, water and light snacks are typically provided on the tour. However, it’s a good idea to bring any personal food or beverages you may want to have on hand during the long day.
Are There Any Military Discounts Available?
Many tour providers offer military discounts for Pearl Harbor tours. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking their tour. Discounts may be applicable for active duty personnel, veterans, and their immediate families.
Is Photography Allowed at the Memorial Sites?
Photography is generally allowed at the Pearl Harbor memorial sites, but visitors are advised to check specific policies and restrictions before their visit. Flash photography may be prohibited in sensitive areas.
Can I Explore Honolulu on My Own Before/After the Tour?
Yes, travelers can explore Honolulu on their own before or after the tour. The tour only includes a sightseeing drive through historic Honolulu, so there’s ample time to further explore the city independently.
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Recap
This tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience at Pearl Harbor, allowing visitors to explore the historic site and its key attractions.
With a small group size, personalized service, and included transportation and gratuities, it provides good value for the duration and activities covered.
However, the strict attire and bag storage requirements may be inconvenient for some travelers.