Napali Coast Rafting Tour (small group tour)
Set out for a Napali Coast adventure on a power raft from the closest harbor to your destination. Spend more time enjoying the view, snorkeling, and taking advantage of photo opportunities, and less time actually getting there!
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Activity Overview
Napali Coast Rafting Tour Highlights
- 5 hour duration
- Tour runs 8:30am-2:00pm daily
- Departs from the Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor (click here for directions)
- 14 guests maximum
- Set out for a day on the Napali Coast complete with sea caves and snorkeling
- Snorkel gear, lunch, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks are provided
- Children 7 and older are welcome!
Napali Coast Rafting Tour Details
Set out from Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor, the closest departure point to the Napali Coast, meaning less time getting there and more time enjoying the view. This tour is roughly 5 hours long and takes you through sea caves (when conditions allow), to a great snorkel spot, and of course to see the stunning Napali Coast.
You’ll make your way there on a 25′ rigid hull zodiac raft. These are the same rafts used by the Navy and the Coast Guard, known for their maneuverability and speed. That being said, this won’t be a super gentle and easy ride but more an adventurous experience. For this reason, children under 7 and pregnant people are not permitted on the tour.
If someone in your group will be expecting and still wants to be able to join, or if you have children over 3 but are too young for this tour, check out our review on Makana Tours!
This tour made our 5 Best Napali Coast Boat Tours list!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?
Booking in advance is highly recommended. It will also maximize your chances of getting the tour date and time you prefer. In addition, plan your reservation early during your time on Kauai, as tours are operated on a weather permitting basis and the information you learn on the tour will be valuable for the rest of your time on Kauai!
What type of boat will we be on and will there be any shade?
All of the Zodiac Boat Tours are conducted on one of their two 25′ Rigid Hull Zodiac Boats, “Hokupa’a” and “Ho’okahi”. They are coast guard certified for up to 14 passengers. These are the same style of boats used by Navy Seals and US Coastguard use, known for their speed and maneuverability in the waters. This proves to be extremely useful for tours as it allows them to reach locations more effectively and directly than the larger catamarans.
You will sit much closer to the water, so there’s a higher chance of experiencing a refreshing splash or two on the tours. The boats do not have a cover or top for shade, which is by design for the best coastline viewing. Hats, sunscreen, and/or sun shirts are recommended. These boats provide adventure and excitement. If you’re expecting a luxury cruise in your Sunday best, this is not the tour for you. Please ensure to follow their cancellation policy should you need to reschedule or cancel for any reason.
Will I get seasick?
If you are prone to motion sickness it is always a possibility when in moving water. Even more so from the boat. They definitely recommend taking something ahead of time as they are unable to provide any refunds for seasickness.
What if the weather is bad?
Their tours usually run rain or shine in moderate weather conditions. However, they may cancel the activity up to just before the tour in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. They always maintain the safety and integrity of the tours. However, please allow their experienced team to make the call in the event of weather — do not rely on weather forecasting apps. These do not always reflect the conditions where the tours take place. If they cancel the tour, all reservations will be allowed to reschedule if they have availability during your stay, or will receive a refund in full.
What is the cancellation policy?
24 hours. Tours canceled less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled date/time of the tour or guests who do not show up to the scheduled tour will be charged 100% of the tour total. (Time is calculated to the minute! If your tour is at 8 am, you have until 7:59 am Hawaii Time the day before.) As you are booking directly with Kauai Sea Rider Adventures all cancellation requests or rescheduling requests must be made directly with them.
However, if you need to reschedule your tour and are within the 24-hour cancellation period, there will be a reschedule fee added to your reservation. Once a reservation has been rescheduled there is not a new 24-hour cancellation period. It will be considered a final reservation not eligible for a refund.
Will there be a restroom available during the tour?
There is no restroom on their boats. It is preferred you use the restrooms at the meeting spot before the start of the tour, as there will not be a bathroom to use once the tour begins.
Is there public parking available at the meeting location?
Yes, parking is available at no charge. Specific directions will be included in the confirmation details after you have made your reservation.
Is gratuity included in the ticket price?
Gratuity is not included, nor is it expected. If you would like to leave a gratuity for your captain and/or guides you are more than welcome to do so in Cash or Credit Card and will be much appreciated.
About Kauai Sea Rider Adventures
At Team Sea Riders, we pride ourselves on what makes us different from other companies. Kauai Sea Riders has been providing specialized small-group Zodiac eco-tours on Kauai since 2005. As marine ecology focused staff, we always focus on providing eco-tours to our guests – focusing on education while at the same time having a great time. All of our staff are professionally trained and share the same passion and reverence for this amazing ocean environment we get to play in everyday!
– Kauai Sea Riders
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