The 4 Best Kauai Catamaran Tours

Ahoy there, fellow Kauai enthusiasts!

I’ve been exploring the breathtaking island of Kauai for years now, alongside my boyfriend who shares my passion for adventure. Each time we visit this paradise, we find ourselves in awe of its dramatic sea cliffs, hidden caves, and lively marine life. Trust me when I say that nothing beats experiencing the sheer beauty of Kauai’s coast from a catamaran tour – especially with options to go snorkeling or bask in those unmatched sunset views!

You know what it’s like you’re on vacation and you want to make every moment count. The last thing you need is to waste precious time researching which catamaran tour will give you the best experience possible. Well, fear not! Throughout our many trips to Kauai, my boyfriend and I have embarked on numerous catamaran tours along the stunning Na Pali Coast and surrounding areas – so believe me when I tell you that I’ve got your back.

Our countless adventures have led us to discover the ins and outs of Kauai’s finest cruises. We’ve carefully weighed factors such as sea conditions, safety measures, hospitality standards and more… all with one goal in mind: identifying THE best catamaran tours this magical island has to offer.

Warning: Once you try out these incredible tours recommended by yours truly, you might just catch yourself daydreaming about Kauai even during your most mundane tasks back home!

So grab your sunscreen and put on your flip-flops – it’s time for us to dive into the ultimate guide on how YOU can witness Kauai’s majestic coast like never before!

Na Pali Sunset and Sightseeing Tour

The Na Pali coast has much to be explored in the name of hidden caves, sea arches, and seventeen miles of shoreline. So the best way to explore it is via this 3.5-hour catamaran tour with sightseeing, commentary from an experienced crew, and a delicious dinner made from local ingredients.

You’ll set sail on a power catamaran from the Port Allen Marina Center, where the crew welcomes guests and makes them comfortable on the ship. Then, you’ll pass by 4,000-foot cliffs, steep cathedral spires, deep valleys, rushing waterfalls, picture-perfect beaches, sea caves, and rock formations as the ship sails along the coast. Stunning is an understatement for the beauty you’ll experience on this tour, so make sure to bring cameras along and snap pictures.

The tour also provides an al fresco dining experience with freshly prepared meals served with alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. 

We loved taking this gorgeous sightseeing trip, and it’s undoubtedly one of the top Kauai catamaran tours. Here’s why you have to take it:

  • You’ll spot marine animals such as dolphins, turtles, and whales (during the winter season.)
  • The crew tells legends of the Na Pali coast and the area’s history. 
  • The captain plans your itinerary according to the weather, so you won’t miss out on any sights. 

Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady

One of the best catamarans in Kauai, the Lucky Lady, is a 60-foot ship that sails with half the passengers than its capacity, making it perfect for a secluded trip. So enjoy a catamaran tour on this ship with incredible sunset views of the Na Pali coast, a three-course dinner meal, and privacy on its spacious levels.

The 4-hour tour sails on the coast past jagged peaks, white sand beaches, and sea cliffs as the crew narrates legends and folk tales of young Hawaiian warriors. As the sunset approaches, you can climb the upstairs observation deck to take in stunning views of the Kauai sunset as it spreads a warm glow on the coast.

Afterward, guests can enjoy a three-course meal with unlimited beer, Mai Tais, cocktails, and tropical beverages. 

My boyfriend and I loved sailing on the Lucky Lady, which offers one of the best Kauai catamaran tours. Here’s why you’ll agree:

  • You’ll spot marine life swimming past your ship, such as turtles, dolphins, and tropical fish.
  • A professional guide on board shared the area’s geological history with guests.
  • The crew is terrific and makes sure everyone enjoys themselves.

Ni’ihau and Na Pali Snorkel Boat Tour 

The vast shoreline of the Na Pali coast is incredibly beautiful, but there lies beauty far beyond it in the ‘Forbidden Island’ of Niihau, which is prohibited for visitors to enter. However, you can tour the gorgeous shores of this island alongside the Na Pali coast on a snorkeling tour to explore the native marine life. 

The tour is aboard a 65-foot power catamaran, which sails past the Na Pali cliffs to the Lehua Crater, a Hawaii State Wildlife Sanctuary, and then to the mysterious Niihau Island. Here you can snorkel in the clearest waters of the Pacific Ocean and go offshore from Lehua Crater to spot pilot whales and rough-toothed dolphins alongside spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, and humpback whales.

In addition, the tour provides delicious local food and unlimited beverages throughout the trip, which guests will enjoy. 

My boyfriend and I were in awe of this trip’s rugged beauty, which is undoubtedly the most beautiful Kauai catamaran tour. Here’s why you can’t miss it:

  • The crew is incredible and takes great care of all the passengers.
  • Your guides share exciting stories, legends, and the history of Niihau.
  • You’ll snorkel with manta rays, monk seals, turtles, and spinner dolphins.

Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail 

Set sail on the Na Pali shoreline with Holo Holo Charters, as they offer terrific catamaran tours from the 50-foot Leila cruise ship. This tour sails from Kauai’s shores for a sunset viewing, followed by dinner and spotting marine life on a 4.5-hour offshore adventure. 

Upon boarding the sleek catamaran, you’ll be greeted by the friendly crew serving Mai Tais as you settle into the ship. Then, you’ll sail past the Na Pali coast as the crew hoists the sails, cuts the motors, and lets the trade winds propel the catamaran. Guests will enjoy moving on the rocking boat as it gives an authentic sailing experience.

When the sunset nears, you’ll get served a meal of local delicacies and a range of beverages by the crew as you take in gorgeous sunset views.

My boyfriend and I loved sailing on this terrific cruise, as it’s one of the best Kauai catamaran tours. Here’s why you’ll agree:

  • Guests will enjoy a champagne toast at sunset from the crew.
  • On the tour, you’ll pass Polihale State Park, which houses one of Kauai’s most beautiful beaches.
  • You can watch native marine life breaking the shore from your cruise.

Winding Up The Best Kauai Catamaran Tours

Kauai’s rustic Na Pali coast is incredibly beautiful, and taking tours aboard a catamaran is the best way to take in its beauty. Most tours offer different activities and quirks like snorkeling with the sea life, dinner and drinks, and incredible sunset views, which upgrade the entire experience. 

Those looking for a secluded trip away from crowded tourist hubs will love taking these tours, as they offer privacy on spacious catamarans.

Since my boyfriend and I are obsessed with Kauai’s shores, we always try to fit in a tour of them on our vacations. 

So make sure to try the Kauai catamaran tours mentioned above on your next trip, as they’re unmissable!

Last Updated on March 29, 2023 by Brigitte