Express Sunset Power Catamaran

Kauai: Express Na Pali Sunset Tour aboard 'Imiloa runs through Kauai Sea Tours. Rated 4.5 across 224 reviews. Runs 5 hours (approx.). From $190.25.

Overview

Kauai Sea Tours runs this sunset trip on a powered catamaran out of Port Allen, on Kauai's west side. Check-in is at the operator's office in the Port Allen Marina Center at 4353 Waialo Road in Eleele, with departure at 14:00. The whole outing runs about 5 hours from the moment the boat leaves the dock, ending back at the same marina just after sunset.

The route heads up the Na Pali Coast, a stretch of cliffs, waterfalls and sea caves that can only be reached by boat, helicopter or on foot. Along the way the captain narrates Hawaiian history and legends, and the crew keeps an eye out for wildlife. Dolphins show up often in reviews, and a few travellers also reported whale sightings on the ride back. A casual late lunch is served on board, along with an open bar of beer, wine, Mai Tais for guests 21 and over, and soft drinks.

This is a fast, open-water ride rather than a slow sail. Reviewers repeatedly describe it as bumpy depending on the swells, and several said the crew helped a lot when seasickness hit. It suits reasonably fit travellers, including kids from age 3 with an adult, but it is not a match for expectant mothers or anyone with back, neck or joint problems, recent surgery or limited mobility. The boat carries a maximum of 36 travellers and has restrooms on board.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Check in at Port AllenArrive at Kauai Sea Tours, 4353 Waialo Rd #2B, Eleele, in the Port Allen Marina Center. Park in the third lot on the left at the end of the complex, then check in at the office. Departure is at 14:00.
2. Speedboat run up the coastThe catamaran moves quickly along the coastline, with chances to spot dolphins while lunch and drinks are served on board.
3. Cruise the Na Pali CoastPass by Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, taking in waterfalls, possible rainbows and cliff views reachable only by boat, helicopter or hiking trail, while the captain shares history and legends.
4. Sunset and returnThe boat heads back after sunset viewing and returns to the departure point at Port Allen, roughly 5 hours after departure.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make or break this trip, especially since it is a long day on open water.

• Getting there. There is no hotel pickup or drop off. Travellers make their own way to Port Allen in Eleele, which one reviewer described as a long ride from the cruise port, so allow generous travel time.
• Bumpy water. Several reviewers called the ride bumpy or rough depending on swells, and some reported seasickness. The listing says anyone prone to motion sickness should take precautions and consult a medical professional before medicating.
• What to bring. The operator asks guests to bring sunglasses, reef-safe non-spray sunscreen, a light cover-up, a camera or phone, and any required medications plus allergy or insect protection.
• Food and drink. A casual late lunch and an open bar with beer, wine, Mai Tais for those 21 and over, and soft drinks are included.
• Crew and pace. Many travellers singled out the crew as attentive, circulating with drinks, snacks, photo help and information about the coast. Five hours is a long stretch at sea if you are not used to it, as one reviewer cautioned.
• Weather reroutes. Routes depend on ocean conditions, and the tour may reroute to the south coast when necessary.

Common issues. The ride can be rough, and the listing firmly excludes expectant mothers and anyone with back, neck, hip or knee problems, recent injuries or surgeries, or mobility issues. The boat is not wheelchair accessible. Tours reroute to the south coast when ocean conditions demand it, and no refunds are given for reroutes, missed water activities or seasickness. One reviewer reported a late cancellation notice and a long refund-free drive to the marina, so it pays to watch for messages before setting out. A minimum traveller count is required, and cancellations for weather or low numbers come with a choice of a different date or a full refund.

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