Napali Coast Snorkeling & Sailing Tour
Head aboard the Kauai-built catamaran, Leila, for a snorkeling and sailing adventure along the dramatic Napali Coast. Our family loved this tour for the large, smooth sailing catamaran, the snorkeling, the views of the Napali Coast, going under a waterfall, and the onboard waterslide!
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Activity Overview
Napali Coast Snorkel & Sail Highlights
- 5-hour tour departing from Port Allen, near Waimea
- 50 minutes of snorkeling time
- Continental breakfast and deli-style lunch are provided
- Wine & beer are provided after snorkeling
- Motor up the Napali Coast to your snorkeling spot in the morning and if conditions are right, sail back down the coast after snorkeling
- Children under 5 are unfortunately not allowed on the adventure
Our Experience on this Napali Coast Boat Tour
We brought our son Henry on this adventure. From watching Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins play (there was a baby dolphin!), to snorkeling, to their waterslide, this trip was unforgettable. But let us not forget about those Napali Coast views! Watch our experience below to see if this trip is right for you.
FYI, we have a full Guide to Visiting the Napali Coast for details.
About the Napali Coast Snorkel & Sail
Head out on a sailing adventure up the Napali Coast! Your knowledgeable crew will take you from Port Allen up the coast while you take in the dramatic view of the cliffs and secluded beaches along the shoreline. The Napali Coast isn’t accessible by car, so this may be your only opportunity on your trip to catch this view. Enjoy your continental breakfast as you cruise the coast.
Depending on the conditions for the day, your captain will pick a great snorkeling spot. After the crew gives you some snorkeling best practices, you’ll grab your gear and go! You have approximately 50 minutes in the water for snorkeling. Don’t forget to take a trip down the waterslide!
Back on the boat, it’s time for a deli-style lunch. If the conditions are right, the captain will put up the sail as you cruise back to port. Water, juice, and soft drinks are served throughout the day but only after snorkeling will they begin serving beer and wine.
Five hours will fly by as you check out the varied marine life and crystal-clear water!
Not sure if this is the right tour for you? Check out these other Napali coast cruises from Holo Holo Charters:
- Napali Coast Sunset Dinner Cruise
- Napali Coast Rafting and Snorkel Tour
- Napali Coast Snorkeling + Niihau
Book this Napali Coast Boat Tour Directly Here
Napali Coast Snorkel & Sail FAQs
Know Before You Go Snorkel Safety
Swimming and snorkeling in the Pacific Ocean should not be taken lightly. To keep you safe, please know your health limits, swim with a buddy, never turn your back on the ocean, and read and obey posted signs. Check HIOceanSafety.com for ocean conditions at lifeguard beaches.
What is the capacity of the sailboat Leila?
37 passengers
Do I need a wetsuit?
Wet suits are not needed on Kauai, but if you are one to get cold easily, you can rent or buy a wet suit from an outside vendor as they do not carry wet suits. Bring a swimsuit and a towel and dry change of clothes for after snorkeling.
What is the best time to see whales?
Humpback whale season is from November through March. Humpback whales do not have a specific time of the day that they are more active, so you can see them at any time throughout the day. Sometimes they get lucky and see different types of whales throughout the year.
This is not a whale-watching tour but if they see whales, which is common along the Napali, they will stop to view.
If I can’t swim, will I be able to snorkel?
They do not recommend snorkeling for non-swimmers. All their snorkel locations are in areas that are overhead deep, so “wading” or standing up on the bottom isn’t possible. This makes it a danger to non-swimmers.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tour routes and destinations cannot be guaranteed as sometimes the weather does impact their itinerary. If they expect the need to alter the route or are unable to snorkel due to weather or ocean conditions, they will provide as much notice as possible.
Their captains are knowledgeable and experienced when it comes to Kauai weather and ocean conditions. If at any time there is a concern from the captain, they will come up to the office after check-in to let you know about their concerns. Captains will then give you the option of rescheduling or canceling at no charge. Winter (November – February) ocean swells tend to impact the tours the most as the Napali Coast is located on the northwest side of the island.
What about sea sickness?
It is a possibility, especially if you are sensitive to motion. If you are not sure, we recommend an over-the-counter treatment. Better to be safe than sorry.
About Holo Holo Charters
With nearly 25 years in business, Holo Holo Charters is an exceptionally run business that provides a great customer experience while also supporting Hawaii’s ecotourism goals. They provide high quality education to guests about the marine life while respecting and keeping the marine life safe. All of their boats have been designed and built on Kauai by the company owner and the company is locally owned and operated. When you sail with Holo Holo you are supporting the local economy and supporting a business committed to caring for the environment.
Holo Holo also provides an exceptional experience for its guests. The crew is experienced and takes pride is sharing their knowledge with visitors.
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