The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 481 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition worth booking?
The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition is a 8-hour experience in Kauai, United States, from $361 per person. It scores 78 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 481 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 78 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (481)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $361 per person
Go big or go home on one of the most ambitious tours Kauai has to offer—a 90-mile ocean adventure up the Napali Coast and across the Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua Crater and the “Forbidden Island” of Ni’ihau. We’ll experience Kauai’s sacred and breathtaking northwest coast and then head offshore into the deeper and more remote waters of Lehua and Ni’ihau where there are superior wildlife viewing opportunities and world-class snorkeling conditions. Snorkeling gear and instruction are provided, and our sleek and comfortable Kauai-built 65’ power catamaran is the vessel to take you and your loved ones there and back safely and in style. Breakfast, lunch, and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are included in this beautiful, exciting, informative, and valuable 7-hour ocean experience that’s very likely to become the highlight of your visit to Kauai.
What you get
About this experience
Go big or go home on one of the most ambitious tours Kauai has to offer—a 90-mile ocean adventure up the Napali Coast and across the Kaulakahi Channel to Lehua Crater and the “Forbidden Island” of Ni’ihau. We’ll experience Kauai’s sacred and breathtaking northwest coast and then head offshore into the deeper and more remote waters of Lehua and Ni’ihau where there are superior wildlife viewing opportunities and world-class snorkeling conditions. Snorkeling gear and instruction are provided, and our sleek and comfortable Kauai-built 65’ power catamaran is the vessel to take you and your loved ones there and back safely and in style. Breakfast, lunch, and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) are included in this beautiful, exciting, informative, and valuable 7-hour ocean experience that’s very likely to become the highlight of your visit to Kauai.
What's included
Included
- The chance to see humpback whales (Dec-Apr)
- See and snorkel with dozens of fish and see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, monk seals, manta rays
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Free beverages all day — with beer and wine served after we snorkel
- Spend the day in comfort and style on our sleek, Kauai made 65’ power catamaran
- Learn interesting facts, history and legends about the land and its people
Not included
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
What you'll see and do
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
1. Breathtaking Sightseeing—With her 4,000’ cliffs, cascading waterfalls, emerald-green valleys and secluded beaches, the Napali Coast is an absolute must-do on any Kauai vacation. And while most tours stop there, this adventure continues on to Lehua Crater (a Hawaii State Wildlife Sanctuary) and the mysterious Ni’ihau Island.
180 minutes here
Niihau - The Forbidden Island
2. Excellent Snorkeling and Wildlife Viewing— The snorkeling conditions around Lehua Crater and Niihau are some of the clearest and most prolific in all of Hawaii. Going offshore to Lehua and Niihau, we increase our chances of seeing more elusive ocean species such as pilot whales and rough-toothed dolphins in addition to the spinner dolphins, green sea turtles and humpback whales (seasonally, December-April) that frequent the waters of Kauai.
180 minutes here
Kauai
Satisfying Food and Beverage Service—The meals we serve are colorful, delicious, and prepared fresh every morning using whole ingredients. In the beverage department, you’ll be offered water, coffee, juices, soft drinks and a creative selection of craft beer, wine, and hard seltzers.
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Polihale State Park
Get a Sense of the Cultural History—Kauai’s Napali Coast is uninhabited today but was once home to thousands of people and to this day, there’s a private colony of Hawaiian people living on Niihau! We’ll share the history, legends, and stories of these lands and their people, leaving you with a deeper understanding and appreciation for Kauai and Ni’ihau Islands.
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Kauai
Hospitality with Aloha—Your friendly crew members will be at your side all day long, making sure you’re comfortable, hydrated, well-fed, your snorkel mask fits right, your drink is topped up, and that you’re having a fabulous time.
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Kauai
A Safe and Original Experience—Taking into consideration the day’s weather and ocean conditions, your experienced Captain will use their discretion to show you as much as possible in the time we have, while always prioritizing your comfort and safety. Specific stops and snorkeling locations will vary, and we’ll always do our very best to impress. Splashes can happen--bring a light jacket!
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Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Kauai
Departure Point: Port Allen Address: Port Allen Marina Center 4353 Waialo Road Ele'ele HI 96705
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Departure Point: Port Allen Address: Port Allen Marina Center 4353 Waialo Road Ele'ele HI 96705
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Holo Holo Charters, Inc.
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Passenger Policy
- 1. This is an adventure. Ocean conditions vary and may be rough. Participation may not be suitable for everyone; boarding of physically challenged individuals is at the captain’s discretion.
- 2. Not recommended for guests with back, neck, knee, hip, or other joint problems, chronic pain, recent injuries or surgeries, or severe motion sickness. No refunds for seasickness; prevention is best with over-the-counter remedies.
- 3. No expectant mothers.
- 4. Children must be 5 years or older.
- 5. Routes, destinations, and snorkeling are subject to change without notice due to weather and ocean conditions.
- 6. Cancelled tours are fully refundable or gladly rescheduled.
- 7. “No shows” or any cancellation within 24-hours of check-in time is subject to a 100% charge of the total fare including tax.
- 8. We are not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen items.
- 9. Mobility aids such as canes, walkers, crutches, wheelchairs, etc. are not allowed on board.
- 10. We do not land on shore.
- 11. Non-swimmers are not allowed in the water.
- 12. Full-face snorkel masks are prohibited. Only traditional two-piece masks and snorkels may be used. For safety, please avoid snorkeling within 24 hours after arriving from a flight over 5 hours
- 13. If you do not have your daily or prescribed medication with you, i.e. inhalers, EpiPens, diabetic medication, you must reschedule your tour for another day.
- 14. No smoking of any kind, including electronic cigarettes.
- 15. You should bring your own towels, sunscreen, a light jacket and camera. We will provide everything else.
- 16. All tours are barefoot. Shoes must be removed before boarding, with orthopedic/diabetic exceptions at the captain’s discretion.
- 17. Per our liquor license, guests may not bring alcohol. IDs are required for age verification. Intoxicated guests will not be served and may be denied boarding. Alcohol is served only after snorkeling on applicable tours.
- 18. No coolers or drones/unmanned aircraft are allowed on-board.
- 19. Spray/aerosol sunscreens are prohibited as a safety hazard. Please use reef-friendly lotion sunscreens instead.
- 20. Marine toilets clog easily. Only flush human waste and the toilet paper provided.
- 21. Please use the designated gravel parking lot.
- 22. All complaints of harassment or assault, and any suspected illegal activity, will be reported to the proper authorities.
- 23. We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who does not meet health, safety, or policy requirements.
- As a company that puts sustainability at the forefront of goals, we request you bring your own reusable water bottle with you on tour.
- Child rates apply to ages 5-12, and adult rates apply to ages 13 and above.
- No expectant mothers are permitted to join the tour
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 481 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Food and drink
3 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
481 verified traveler reviews for The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Good Time Despite Conditions
This was our 4th trip over the years with Holoholo and we enjoyed the trip. The weather impacted our ability to travel to Ni’ihau, so we were able to travel farther up the Na Pali coast; we were given a 20 % discount upon our return due to the travel adjustments. The weather was windy and the ride was choppy heading into the wind but smooth coming back down with the wind. We saw several pods of spinning dolphins. Drew was our captain and did a great job describing the scenery. Noah was excellent at making sure everyone was waited on. Lexi and Kamala also provided good service.
via Tripadvisor
Great Day on the Water
This was an adventure that was well prepared for with a crew that was in sync with each other and the guests. This full-day on the water is not for everyone but those that can handle the potential rough waters to get to the amazing snorkeling spot at Nihau. The boat made the trip fun and enjoyable - I would not want to be in one of those rubber boats on these seas. We spent an hour snorkeling and another hour admiring the Napali Coastline. There's covered and uncovered areas to sit and the crew is incredibly helpful to each and every guest. I especially liked how the crew proactively took pictures of the guests along the Napali Coast - they were great. Highly reco Holoholo Charters and this trip if you want something you will never forget.
via Tripadvisor
A real adventure
We chose the Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition because we had never been to Ni'ihau. It was totally worth the time and the money over a Napali-only tour. The boat is a little smaller than some of the others and a lot more powerful. It needs to be because we crossed the channel from Kauai to Ni'ihau in addition to cruising up and down the Na Pali coast. The snorkeling was fantastic - the best I've seen in the islands. A large, healthy coral reef covered with fish, and a curious Monk seal swimming around. The crew were all friendly, helpful and enthusiastic. The captain, Nate, was informative without talking too much. Be aware though that the tour goes out to sea. The waves are much bigger than those near the coast that you experience on a Na Pali tour, and a few of our group got sea sick. There is lots of spray - you'll get wet unless you ride in the cabin, and that's where you're more likely to get sea sick... So, its an adventure, and a good one!
Response from the operator: It was our pleasure to have you aboard, and we couldn't be happier knowing how much you enjoyed your time on the water with us! Thank you so much for choosing to join us here at Holoholo Charters and for taking the time to share your wonderful review! Mahalo and Aloha
via Tripadvisor
Super tour in Kauai
Amazing tour. The crew Lexie, (Tamalo(?) and co. were very nice and attentive. Nate the captain did an impressive job of maneuvering the boat while providing uss with a commentary on history and legends. The snorkeling was very good. The tour of the Na'Pali Coast is as gorgeous as advertised. As a bonus we went to an area where a pod of spinning dolphins, adults, teenagers, and babies came to play around with the boat for quite a while. We were 3 adults and loved it. Warning: take your Dramamine with you, even if you don't usually get seasick. This boat goes fast!
Response from the operator: We are so grateful for your incredible review and thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience on our tour. Thank you for choosing Holoholo Charters and we will let Capt. Nate, Lexie and Kalama know how much they made the tour unforgettable for you! We hope to welcome you back soon for another adventure! Mahalo and Aloha
via Tripadvisor
We will be so glad you booked this!
Outstanding day on the water. This was the best snorkeling every one of us have experience. Captain Drew, kalama. Olivia and the final crew member were absolutely wonderful. So attentive and the bonus trip up the coast was so worth it. We have picture and memories to last a lifetime. Who can say they drove a boat through a waterfall and saw reef sharks, monk seals, goats and spinner dolphins...just to mention a few... all in one trip?! Very appreciative of the moments and memories that will last a lifetime!!! Highly recommend to anyone considering this adventure!
Response from the operator: We are beaming reading over your review, and we'd like to thank you for joining us out on the water! We are elated to know how well taken care of you felt, and how much you enjoyed our staff. We hope to see you again soon! Mahalo and Aloha
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 168
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Holo Holo Charters, Inc., who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 77.1.
See everything Holo Holo Charters, Inc. runsWhy this scores 78
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kauai.
How much does The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition cost?
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Prices start at $361 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kauai usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kauai is not rushed.
Is The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 78 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 481 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Kauai, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition?
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Around 168 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kauai can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kauai and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kauai within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Kauai?
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Kauai sells Na Pali Coast boat and helicopter tours, Waimea Canyon drives, tubing through old plantation ditches and Hanalei kayak trips. Ocean conditions shut down the north shore boat runs in winter, so cancellation terms matter. On Outty we rank every Kauai experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Koloa Zipline in Kauai, Kauai: NaPali Boat Tour on the Amelia K, Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak and Hike. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Kauai?
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April to June and September to October, with calmest seas in summer. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Kauai?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition?
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Included: The chance to see humpback whales (Dec-Apr); See and snorkel with dozens of fish and see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, monk seals, man; Breakfast; Lunch; and Free beverages all day — with beer and wine served after we snorkel. Not included: Gratuities; and Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition?
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Departure Point: Port Allen Address: Port Allen Marina Center 4353 Waialo Road Ele'ele HI 96705 Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: 9. Mobility aids such as canes, walkers, crutches, wheelchairs, etc. are not allowed on bo. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about The Niʻihau & Nāpali Snorkel Expedition?
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Across 481 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include food and drink, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
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