Liko Kauai Cruises

Experience Napali through Hawaiian Eyes

If you’ve never been on an ocean cruise along the 16-mile-long Napali Coast, then be sure to make it one of the top three activities you do while on the Garden Island. On the other hand, if you’ve already witnessed the majesty of this stunning coastline, then who’s to say you shouldn’t do it again? Whether it’s your first time or not, you’ll definitely be thankful that you did. It is SO worth it!

Lose yourself in the magnificent beauty of the Napali Coast while listening to the stories of the islands with Liko Kauai Cruises. The ancestors of the knowledgeable and friendly captain and crew are rooted in the Hawaii of old whose passion was riding the open sea—it’s the spirit that continues to this day. Together with Liko Kauai Cruises, experience the wild and rugged Napali on the Ultimate Napali Boat Cruise, a true adventure of a lifetime.

The turquoise-hued Pacific Ocean is rich in marine life; you may very likely observe endangered sea turtles or honu, seabirds taking flight amid the dramatic cliffs, playful mammals like the resident Spinner and Pacific Bottlenose dolphins, lightning fast flying fish, the endangered Hawaiian monk seal and even visiting humpback whales in season (December through April). Distinctive features include spectacular sea caves such as Pirate’s Cave, the largest sea cave on the Napali Coast. Feel the cool spray of a waterfall as you access the cave and adjust your eyes upon entry to see bright green moss above and white calcium streaks created by natural freshwater springs, and breathe in the moist and musty scent that is the Pirate’s Cave. Activities are dependent on the weather and ocean, but when conditions are right, get ready for even more fun!

You’ll also enjoy cascading freshwater waterfalls like Rainbow Falls; see famous Honopu Arch—the largest natural arch in the state—where the epic movie “King Kong” was filmed, peer into deep and uninhabited green valleys, and be amazed by miles of pristine white sand beaches. In between these beautiful diversions and stops for photographs and videotaping, you’ll easily feel like part of the family as the crew shares fascinating island history and Hawaiian folklore for an engaging and entertaining half-day adventure.

Daily excursions are aboard the U.S. Coast Guard-certified Napali Kai III, an extremely fast and comfortable 49-foot catamaran powered by twin 315 horsepower Cummins diesel. It’s the perfect size for exploring sea caves and offers unobstructed views of dramatic cliffs and mountain peaks. Padded seats are all forward facing too. Amenities include a shaded area, freshwater shower and restroom.

Tours are five hours with either an 8 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. check-in time departing from the nearest harbor to the Napali Coast, Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor. This enables the ability to see more of the coast in a shorter time. Tour includes snorkeling equipment (prescription and optical masks are also available) and easy-to-follow instruction for a close-up glimpse of isle marine life in their native habitat. A deli lunch is provided that includes beef, ham, turkey, veggie and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, plus cookies and beverages (bottled water, juices, soft drinks). Prepare as if you were headed out for a day at the beach—slather on the sunscreen, wear a hat and swimwear, and bring a towel.

Did you know that when the crew goes fishing, you can witness the excitement? They like catching the big ones and you can watch them reel the fish in—‘ono (wahoo), ‘ahi (yellowfin tuna), kahala (amberjack), mahi mahi (dorado or dolphin fish) and even barracuda. It’s just one more facet to the Napali Coast experience shared by Liko Kauai Cruises!