A330 Hawaiian airlines Extra comfort row 11 or first class?

Question

I have the opportunity for $300 a person to upgrade from Seattle to Maui (6 hours)

We currently have row 11 extra comfort which is in the small quiet cabin

I have read that many people prefer extra comfort over first class on Hawaiian but would love any feedback or thoughts

Thank you!

Answer

For Hawaiian Airlines’ A330 flights between Seattle and Maui, the decision between keeping Row 11 Extra Comfort or upgrading to First Class depends on what aspects of comfort, service, and cabin environment matter most to you for a six-hour flight.

Extra Comfort (Row 11)

Extra legroom and recline beyond standard economy, generally 5–6 inches more legroom than regular economy.
Located in a smaller, quieter cabin near the front of the main economy section — good for minimal foot traffic and less disturbance from passengers and service carts.
Seats still have economy-class width, standard food service, and overhead bin access remains the same.
Often preferred by passengers who value extra space but don’t want the higher price of First Class.

First Class

Wider seats with more pitch, increased recline, and more comfortable cushioning.
Dedicated cabin and crew, fewer passengers, generally quieter than main cabin.
Enhanced dining experience including complimentary premium meals and beverages (including alcohol), plus upgraded amenity kits for longer flights.
Priority boarding and deplaning, access to First Class or airline lounges at airports, and sometimes more attentive service.

Considerations for Your Flight

Six hours is long enough that the extra seat width and recline of First Class can make a noticeable difference for sleep or relaxation.
If you value peace, minimal interruptions, and just a little more legroom without paying extra for luxury, Row 11 Extra Comfort is highly rated by many travelers.
For families or groups, upgrading to First Class for everyone adds a significant cost ($300/person here), so Extra Comfort may be more cost-effective while still offering a quieter, comfortable experience.
Some passengers feel that the difference in service between Extra Comfort and First Class on Hawaiian isn’t large for shorter flights, but on a 6-hour flight, First Class perks like meals, beverages, and more space may justify the upgrade.

Summary Recommendation

If you prioritize extra personal space, comfort, and service and the budget allows, First Class is the way to go, especially for six hours in the air. If you mainly want extra legroom, a quiet cabin, and minimal disturbance, Row 11 Extra Comfort is very satisfactory and often preferred for cost-conscious travelers who don’t need full First Class amenities.