Makana Charters And Tours
Get an intimate view of the Napali Coast on the Makana Charters and Tours 12 Passenger Catamaran Tour. You spend 5 hours on the water, including time snorkeling in the pristine waters off Kauais Napali Coast. Because the tour is limited to 12 guests age 9 and up, you get a less crowded, more personal experience. All Makana Charters boat tours leave from Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor on the west side of the island, so you spend more time exploring and less time traveling from the home port to your destination.
Recommended Reading: What Cruise Lines Depart From New York
Hawaii: Kauai Capt Andys Kauai Boat Tours
Capt. Andys Kauai Boat Tours is a reputable tour company established in 1980. Offering a variety of packages such as Private Charters, Whale Watching , Snorkeling, Sunset Cruises, and more. This is a perfect way to see the Na Pali coast.
Kauai, Napali Coast, View from Capt Andys Sunset Tour photo by Kathy Leonardo courtesy of ETG
While on our honeymoon in Kauai, my husband and I decided to take a Na Pali sunset cruise. A few days earlier, we had experienced a morning tour of this stunning Kauai coastline. Romance is definitely the first thing that came to mind while on the Capt. Andys Sunset Tour. A moment of gratitude hit us both as the catamaran left the dock. I highly recommend this tourbetween the glorious sunset, the dolphins , the delicious dinner and the back-drop of the Na Pali Coast, it was hard to ignore the wave of romantic feelings flowing over me.
Capt Andys Sunset Cruise, Time for Dessert photo by Richard Bilow courtesy of ETG
The best time to see the Na Pali Coast, in my opinion is at the close of the day, when the sun sets. Of course, it does depend on the time of year, but for us the light was at a perfect place for fantastic romantic photos in October.
ETG TIP: Be sure to ask about when the best light for photos is when you are booking, if thats important to you.
Harbor Tours With A Different View
Gansett Cruises offers one and a half hour narrated harbor boat tours and sunset cruises on Narragansett Bay. Cruise in comfort as you enjoy a scenic tour of Newport and Jamestown. Complimentary Rhode Island specialty and cash bar with a selection of wine, beer, and signature cocktails. This summer Gansett Cruises is celebrating 10 years on the water!
A DIFFERENT VIEW
Gansett Cruises breaks away from the typical rushed harbor boat tour to offer a quiet relaxing and delightful cruise of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bays East Passage. Our guides, are enthused to share the legends and rich history of their homeport.
packages & charters
MV Gansett has teamed up with Birds Eye View Helicopters to show you the best of Newport from the Sky and at Sea. Gansett is also available for private charters for motorcoach groups, weddings, cruise ship groups and special events. Phone or email for details.
LOCATION & DIRECTIONS
Its just the feeling you get from being on a well-appointed private yacht that makes M/V Gansett so special. The open deck plan, comfortably cushioned seating and broad sun canopy create a pleasant cruising experience. Come cruise with us today!
Don’t Miss: Best Time To Book Cruise
Kipu Kai Cruise Photos
Beautiful Lawai Kai Beach is part of Allerton Garden.
Some of the many resorts in Poipu.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa.
A unique perspective of the cliff at Shipwrecks.
Mahaulepu Trail
Approaching Kipu Kai
Another Capt. Andys boat. The waters can be choppy headed towards Kipu Kai. For the return trip its smoother sailing with the sail up. Bring a light jacket as it can get cool, wet and windy during the cruise.
Blue Dolphin Charters Niihau And Napali Coast Snorkeling Tour
If your family is just as fascinated by whats under the water as what you can see from deck, the Blue Dolphin Charters Niihau and NaPali Coast Snorkeling Tour offers plenty of access to underwater fun. The 7.5 hour tour takes you to the forbidden island of Niihau, where you can swim or snorkel offshore in water that has up to 150 feet of visibility. A tropical continental breakfast and deli-style lunch come included to help fuel your under-the-waves adventures. Boat trips on Blue Dolphin Charters set sail from Port Allen and accommodate kids as young as age 5. Mai tais and other drinks are available onboard for guests over age 21.
Read Also: What Is The Best Luxury Cruise Line
Recommended Reading: How Much Does It Cost For An Alaskan Cruise
Where To Take A Sunset Cruise On Kauai
Kauai offers endless beauty and plenty of activities for all who grace its shores. On Kauai, you might find yourself dipping your toes in the soft sands and crystal-clear waters, mingling with the locals over some authentic Hawaiian cuisine or picking out a unique souvenir from a shop near your Kauai rentals. At the end of a long day of sightseeing, though, theres no better way to finish off the evening than with a sunset tour on Kauai! Here are a few of the most popular local services for you to consider, all near our Kauai rentals.
You May Like: Can You Bring Wine On Oceania Cruises
Options For Na Pali Coast Boat Tours
Something important to note when booking your Na Pali Coast boat tour is that tours depart from different locations even though they are going to the same place.
Tours depart from the North Shore and West/Southwest Kauai in summer. Plus, in the summer or during calm conditions, you can snorkel and visit caves along the coast. Some companies offer sunset snorkel tours, but this is rare in winter.
Winter
Boat rides only start from Port Allen in Eleele in winter the season typically goes from mid-September to mid-May. The waters are too rough to depart from the North in the winter so they depart further down the coast.
To get to Port Allen, it is a long drive from the North Shore of Kauai because you must drive around the island. There is no road directly from the North to the West of Kauai.
Consider the location of your accommodation when booking a Na Pali coast tour in winter. You should either schedule your boat tour while on the South Shore or be willing to make the long drive over.
Combining a morning exploring Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park with a Na Pali sunset dinner cruise would be a great way to get to know the island of Kauai.
Additionally, you should book your Na Pali Coast boat tour early in your trip in the event it is rescheduled due to bad weather. In the winter, this is a common occurrence.
Read more: Winter in Kauai or What to Do in Kauai When it Rains
You May Like: What Cruise Lines Do Kids Sail Free
Holo Holo Charters Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel And Sail
Visit secluded sea caves, wind your way along the Napali coastline and spot gorgeous waterfalls tumbling from 4,000-foot cliffs on this sailing adventure. Known as one of the top three boat tours on Kauai, the Holo Holo Charters Na Pali Coast Kauai Snorkel and Sail tour departs from Port Allen and takes you on a 50-foot sailing catamaran along Kauais coast to find the perfect snorkeling spot, where you can enter the water via the vessels onboard waterslide. After the snorkeling session, the catamaran spends some time sailing by wind power alone, eschewing the engines to give you a classic sailing experience. This trip is suitable for children age 5 and up.
Kauai Sea Tours Imiloa Whale Watching Cocktail Tour
If your idea of a good time involves drinks on deck while enjoying gorgeous views of local wildlife, the Kauai Sea Tours Imiloa Whale Watching Cocktail Tour, available from December through March, may be the Kauai boat trip for you. The luxurious 40-foot express catamaran departs from Port Allen and can reach speeds of up to 30 knots. Kids age 3 and up can count how many dolphins they spot from the deck as parents enjoy a cocktail during the ride. Complimentary beer, wine and snacks keep you relaxed during your journey.
From exploring the dramatic cliffs off Kauais Napali Coast to snorkeling near a forbidden island, Kauai boat tours satisfy your need for adventure. Start planning your trip by booking a Kauai ocean-view villa at Koloa Landing Resort.
Also Check: Carnival Cruise Mardi Gras Rooms
Sit Back And Take In The Suns Daily Departure
Enjoy the breathtaking view of Savannahs sunset. Leave the business of city life for a peaceful and calm afternoon and simply enjoy the scenery.
This cruise starts 2 hours before sunset till the sun sets. Perfect for small intimate groups of up to 6 people.
Sunsets are best enjoyed in the water and are meant to be an intimate experience. You are welcome to bring a snack or your preferred adult beverage, just dont forget to bring your sense of wonder and appreciation for the Suns daily good-bye.
Get all the details at our booking page. If you have any questions or would like to customize your fishing or nature trip, please contact Captain Andy and he will be happy to help you map out the best adventure for you.
Plan Your Next Adventure
During your trip to Kauai, be sure to set aside an evening to enjoy one of these sunset excursions! Then, return to your Waipouli vacation rentals to wind down and get ready for another incredible day of sightseeing ahead tomorrow! Ready to make your dream vacation a reality? Contact us today to get started!
Read Also: Which Cruise Line For Alaska
Recommended Reading: Where Do Cruise Ships Leave From In Seattle Wa
Captain Andys Napali Coast Catamaran Snorkel Tour
Here are the details from my trip with Captain Andy:
The excursion I did with Captain Andys was the 5.5 hour cruise leaving from Port Allen on Kauais south side. It took roughly 20 minutes from the Grand Hyatt to get to the dock.
Our cruise left at 8AM and returned at 1:30PM, but we were advised to check in by 7:15AM.
At the rendezvous point, theres plenty of parking and a huge shop with water, sunscreen, merch, bathrooms, etc. Its a big time operation, folks. And they have all of the amenities you would expect.
We scanned a QR code from a sign in the parking lot to check in and at 7:30 they texted or emailed out boarding passes. The boarding passes were really just colors that sort everyone onto the right boats. There were 3 catamarans loading at the same time so it was a LOT of people milling about. Our color group followed a guide down to the dock where we left our shoes in a bin and boarded group by group.
For this tour, Captain Andys sails huge catamarans with 3 crew members plus the Captain. We boarded quickly and then the captain gave one of the most extensive safety/procedure speeches Ive ever heard on a boat trip.
We set sail right at 8AM. From Port Allen we sailed clockwise around the island. It took us ONE HOUR AND 15 MINUTES before we even reached the tail end of the Napali Coast, which is generally considered to be Polihale Beach. We mostly sailed past the dry, not super scenic part of Kauai .
Star Na Pali Dinner Sunset Sail
4 hrs Adult $245 Child $205
A romantic experience along Na Pali Coast on a custom 65′ Star Class luxury catamaran. Enjoy a relaxing downwind cruise and sunset at sea. Freshly prepared dinner & cocktails.
Afternoon light is amazing on Na Pali. See rich hues of green, red and black as the setting sun highlights the many sharp ridge lines and valleys that make this coastline unique. After heading North up Na Pali weâll enjoy a relaxing downwind cruise and sunset at sea. MoreHide
The Na Pali Dinner Sunset Sail is our premier “dinner with a view” experience. Sunsets at sea, viewed from the Star are spectacular. Passengers will enjoy a panoramic view of the entire coastline from Haena to Milolii, with the “forbidden” island of Ni’ihau in the distance. Each day is unique, as the light reacts with clouds and landscapes. Rainbows frequently add color to the distant mountains.
The sail starts with a short briefing and introduction as we depart from Port Allen and head West, then North and upwind on the Na Pali .
Meanwhile our team of onboard chefs will get busy preparing the fresh meal. Unlike other charter boats, The Star is equipped with a full galley and bar. This means that the meal can be prepared fresh onboard instead of the standard practice of pre-cooking food.
We time the sail to pull in at Port Allen near dusk, our goal is to return you to shore safe, happy and full.
Includes:65 ‘ Star Yacht, Na Pali, dinner, sail, sunset, whales in season.
Recommended Reading: What Is The Best Rhine River Cruise Line
So Should You Do A North Shore Boat Tour Or A South Side Catamaran Tour
Do a north shore zodiac tour if 1) youre going April to October-ish when theyre offered 2) you can drive up to Hanalei early or youre staying in the area 3) you want the very best Napali Coast boat experience including see the whole things, going into the sea caves, etc. 4) youre okay with more of an adventure experience instead of a day cruise experience. Read more about the north shore boat tours here.
Do the south side catamaran tour if 1) youre staying in Poipu and cant handle driving up to Hanalei early 2) youre going with kids who want to snorkel, swim, jump off the boat, bounce on the trampolines 3) youre okay with seeing the highlights of the coast and dont need to see the whole thing 4) you want a more relaxing experience although thats debatable and be prepared for a rough ride either way
Now, there are quite a few options out of the Port Allen area including other companies and other Napali versions that Captain Andys offers , but the trip I took with Captain Andys was VERY recommendable.
You can find the exact trip that Ive described here. It cost $185/adult and $165/child. And dont forget to take cash to tip the crew!
Captain Andys Sunset Dinner Cruise
My family and I have a sunset dinner cruise scheduled for the first week of November of this year. Ive been reading that some people recommend not taking the dinner cruise because you sail in the dark for a lot of it. Does anyone have any experience about this? Id love to see the Napali coast of course but if we are going to be in the dark most of the time I may want to switch to a day trip.
4 replies to this topic
It has been a while since taking the sunset cruise but as far as I know you are not sailing in the dark but rather heading to port as the sun sets and still decent dusk lighting.
Yes, to post 1. The sun is setting as you pull into port. It’s not yet dark.
I’ve taken many morning and early afternoon NaPali trips on the same boats that are used for the dinner sails. And that’s why I’ve never opted to take a dinner cruise. The dining and water conditions just don’t give that optimal dining experience. The boat is bouncing around, the tables are small and you have to hang onto your plate and glass at times. You have the gas smells and usually there is at least one sick person onboard. I’d take an early afternoon departure then have a nice dinner out on terra firma.
Ive done it a few times . I prefer the morning sail , the surf is calmer. Your not sailing in the dark .
We did the Star Na Pali Dinner Sunset Sail on 4/1/22.
The boat, food, drinks, accommodations, service, crew, etc. were all outstanding.
You May Like: Which Cruise Lines Go To Greece
Kauai Sea Tours Napali Coast Snorkel Tour Raft Adventure
Get up close to everything from marine wildlife to coastal formations on the Kauai Sea Tours Napali Coast Snorkel Tour Raft Adventure. The raft vessel is designed to navigate into places where larger boats cant travel, so this tour takes you into hidden sea caves and under a thrilling waterfall shower. This tour also includes time spent snorkeling under the waves. The company, which provides daily trips out of Port Allen, also offers a raft adventure to Nualolo Kai Beach, an isolated location that only a few Kauai boat tours are permitted to visit. Kids as young as age 3 are welcome on this raft tour along the Napali Coast.
Captain Andys Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail
A four-hour trip along the Napali Coast on a 55-foot catamaran delivers gorgeous views of the afternoon sun, dusk and twilight as sunset paints the sky in golden, pink and purple tones throughout your boat ride. Captain Andys Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail includes a full dinner onboard, and youre likely to spot plenty of sea life. With daily departures from Port Allen and suitability for kids age 3 and up, this tour is great for families.
You May Like: Prague To Budapest River Cruise
Amazing Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail Captain Andys
One of the best ways to see the lush Hawaiian island of Kauai is by sailing along its picturesque shores. Captain Andys offers one of the most popular Kauai Dinner Cruises the Na Pali Sunset Dinner sail.
Captain Andys has been operational since 1980, and the company has rightfully earned a stellar reputation, offering a premier sailing service.
We had the pleasure of enjoying Captain Andys Na Pali Sunset Dinner sail. Its an amazing, four hour tour on a luxury catamaran, that explores Kauais magnificent Na Pali Coast.
We departed from Port Allen on the south side of Kauai, then sailed along the calm and protected waters off the western coast of Kauai.
Our boat was the luxury 65 foot Southern Star catamaran. This amazing yacht is simply incredible, offering customers large shaded cabin areas, clean restrooms, and very comfortable seating.
Andrew Evans is the owner of Captain Andys and stated, Southern Star is the culmination of some 25 years experience specifying and operating Hawaii charter boats.
During our sail along Kauais western shore, we viewed Captain Cooks Landing, the Pacific Missile Range Facility at Barking Sands, and Polihale State Park.
We were extremely pleased to be able to see a large number of Humpback Whales. Seeing a whale up close is a moment one will never forget.
We also had several sightings of spinner dolphins as they swam along our boat, playing and leaping out of the water.