Cruise

Question

We are considering a round-trip cruise from California to Hawaii. Do you know what the best time of year is where the Pacific Ocean will be at its calmest? We have five days at sea each way I don’t want to run into rough seas.

Answer

For a round-trip cruise from California to Hawaii, the calmest seas generally occur during the late spring through early fall months, with the Pacific Ocean typically being smoother from May through September. During these months, Hawaii is in its dry season, which generally brings more stable weather patterns and lighter trade winds compared to the winter months.

Here are some details to consider when planning your cruise to minimize rough seas:

Spring and Summer (May–September): These months are often the most comfortable for cruising the Pacific. The ocean swells tend to be smaller, storms are less frequent, and overall sailing conditions are calmer.
Winter (November–March): The Pacific sees more storms during this time, especially north of Hawaii. Swells and larger waves are common, which could make the five-day crossing less smooth.
Fall (October–November): This period can be transitional, with occasional tropical storms or higher swells from the west, so conditions can be a bit more unpredictable than in summer.

Other tips to ensure a more comfortable voyage:

Check the ship’s itinerary and route; sometimes slight changes can help avoid rougher northern Pacific swells.
If you are prone to seasickness, consider booking a cabin midship on a lower deck, which experiences less motion.
Monitor seasonal ocean and weather reports before booking, as certain years may have larger-than-usual swells due to El Niño or La Niña events.

In summary, the best months for a smoother cruise from California to Hawaii are generally May through September. Booking during this period maximizes your chances of calm seas, sunny skies, and a comfortable journey.