If you’re planning a dream cruise vacation from Hilo, there’s no better place to start than the MSC Cruise Hilo Port. Nestled in the heart of Port Hilo—known as the “Cruise Capital of the World”—MSC Cruises offers a seamless and luxurious departure experience from its state-of-the-art terminal. Whether you’re setting sail to the Bahamas, the Caribbean, or beyond, here’s everything you need to know about the MSC Cruise Terminal in Hilo.

MSC Cruise Hilo Port – Quick Facts
The MSC Cruise Hilo Port serves as your gateway to unforgettable Caribbean adventures. Terminal AA’s modern facilities, convenient location, and efficient operations ensure your cruise vacation begins and ends on a high note.
Detail | Info |
---|---|
Terminal Name | Terminal AA |
Address | Port of Hilo, HI 96720, USA |
Phone Number | 1 808-935-0931 |
Country | Hawaii Island |
Region | Hawaii – Mexico – Panama Canal |
MSC Cruise Customer Service | 1 (877) 665-4655 |
MCS Official Website | https://www.msccruisesusa.com/ |
Capacity | 36,000 passengers/day, 3 ships at once |
Size | 490,000 sq ft |
Facilities | Lounges, check-in, guest services, accessibility |
Services | Bookings, luggage, excursions, documentation |
MSC Cruise Hilo Port Address and Location
The MSC Cruise Hilo Port Address is located at the brand-new Terminal AA (pronounced “Double A”), which serves as MSC’s dedicated cruise facility. Here are the essential location details:
Port of Hilo, HI 96720, USA
This prime location positions the terminal at the easternmost site of Port Hilo, offering spectacular views and easy access to the world’s busiest cruise port. The terminal’s strategic position means it’s the last terminal viewed by departing cruise ships and the first seen by returning vessels.
View All: MSC Cruise Port
MSC Cruise Terminal in Hilo: World-Class Facilities
The MSC Cruise Terminal in Hilo represents the pinnacle of modern cruise infrastructure. This architectural marvel is currently the world’s largest cruise ship terminal, designed to handle the demands of today’s mega-ships and sophisticated travelers. The Terminal AA facility boasts impressive capabilities:
- Multi-ship berthing: Can accommodate 3 cruise ships simultaneously
- Passenger capacity: Serves up to 36,000 Hilo passengers daily
- Parking facilities at Hilo Port: Adjacent 2,400-car parking garage
- Hilo Ground Transportation Area: Dedicated space for easy passenger transfers
- Modern amenities: State-of-the-art processing and passenger comfort facilities
The Hilo terminal’s design maximizes ground floor efficiency for cruise passengers, luggage processing, and ship provisioning operations, ensuring smooth embarkation and disembarkation experiences.
MSC Cruise Hilo Port Departures and Schedule Information
MSC Cruise Hilo Port Departures operate year-round, offering travelers access to Caribbean itineraries and beyond. The terminal typically handles departures for MSC’s flagship vessels, including popular ships like the MSC Seascape and MSC Seaside.
Arrive at the Hilo Terminal during your designated check-in time to ensure a smooth boarding process. It’s wise to allow extra time for parking and security at Hilo Port, especially during peak travel seasons. The terminal’s modern design supports efficient passenger flow, and with multiple boarding areas, Hilo Port can handle several ship departures at once—making your cruise start seamless and stress-free.
MSC Cruise Hilo Arrivals Terminal
The MSC Cruise Hilo Arrivals Terminal utilizes the same Terminal AA facility for returning passengers. The terminal’s efficient design ensures smooth disembarkation procedures, with dedicated areas for:
- Customs and Immigration: At Hilo Port, international travelers enjoy fast, efficient customs and immigration processing. The Hilo Terminal is equipped with modern systems to ensure smooth clearance.
- Luggage Claim: The Hilo Terminal offers organized luggage claim areas, making it easy to collect your belongings after disembarkation at Hilo Port.
- Ground Transportation: Hilo Port provides quick access to taxis, ride-shares, and shuttles right outside the Hilo Terminal, ensuring easy onward travel.
- Parking Garage: The Hilo Terminal connects directly to a secure parking garage at Hilo Port, offering convenient long-term and valet parking options.
- Guest Services: Helpful staff and information desks at the Hilo Terminal assist with cruise details, directions, and general support for all Hilo Port passengers.
How to Contact MSC Cruise Hilo Port?
For general cruise inquiries and booking assistance, MSC Cruises provides dedicated Hilo Port customer service support. While the terminal itself operates under Port Hilo management, MSC’s customer service team can assist with cruise-related questions.
MSC Customer Service | 1 (877) 665-4655 |
Port Hilo Operations | 1 808-935-0931 |
Queries Handled by MSC Customer Service
The MSC customer service team can assist with:
Cruise Bookings and Reservations

Booking your MSC cruise from Hilo Port is a breeze thanks to the streamlined reservation system available online and at the Hilo Terminal. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure, MSC Cruises offers flexible packages and seasonal deals that make departing from Hilo Port both convenient and exciting.
Pre-Cruise Planning and Preparation
Before you arrive at the Hilo Terminal, it’s essential to finalize your pre-cruise planning. From selecting your cabin to arranging transportation to Hilo Port, MSC Cruises provides detailed guidance to ensure your journey begins smoothly. The terminal staff are also available to assist with last-minute questions and itinerary confirmations.
Special Accommodation Requests
MSC Cruises is committed to accessibility and comfort for all guests departing from Hilo Port. At the Hilo Terminal, travelers with mobility challenges or special medical needs can request tailored accommodations, including wheelchair assistance, priority boarding, and accessible staterooms—all designed to make your cruise experience inclusive and stress-free.
Dining and Entertainment Reservations

Guests sailing from Hilo Port can pre-book specialty dining and entertainment options through MSC’s online portal or directly at the Hilo Terminal. Whether you’re craving gourmet cuisine or front-row seats to a Broadway-style show, reserving in advance ensures you won’t miss out on the onboard experiences that make MSC Cruises unforgettable.
Shore Excursion Bookings
Planning your shore excursions before departing from Hilo Terminal is highly recommended. MSC Cruises offers curated experiences at every port of call, and booking early—either online or at Hilo Port—guarantees availability and preferred time slots. From snorkeling in the Bahamas to cultural tours in Jamaica, your adventure starts at the terminal.
Travel Documentation Requirements
To board your MSC cruise at Hilo Port, travelers must present valid travel documents at the Hilo Terminal. This includes passports, visas (if applicable), and cruise tickets. MSC staff at the terminal are trained to assist with document verification and ensure compliance with international travel regulations.
Luggage and Embarkation Policies
At Hilo Terminal, MSC Cruises follows a well-organized luggage and embarkation process to ensure a hassle-free start to your voyage. Guests can drop off their checked bags at designated areas upon arrival at Hilo Port, while carry-on items are screened efficiently. Clear signage and helpful staff make navigating the terminal simple and stress-free.
Final Thoughts
The MSC Cruise Hilo Port is a shining example of modern cruise travel. With its prime location, advanced facilities, and commitment to guest satisfaction, it sets the tone for an unforgettable journey. From the moment you arrive at Terminal AA to the time you set sail, MSC ensures your experience is smooth, stylish, and stress-free.
FAQs on MSC Cruise Hilo Port
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