Cruising & Car Rental ?

[Poohb]

We're planning on a trip to Hawaii in '07. Do you have to rent a car prior to docking? Are the rentals at the dock? Is it best to make reservations w/ the car company well in advance to our trip. What's the 'usual' procedure please. Thanks

[Irishwhiskey]

The car companies will reserve a car for you at no cost with no money down.I have used National,Dollar and Budget in the Islands.Most ports have shuttles that take you to the rental from the pier and some will have you call them to get picked up.As with any reservation its always better to call ahead and reserve a car.I have seen people get turned down in Maui and Hilo without reservations.You only have so many hours in port that you don't need to run around looking for something to drive.