Kauai Nā Pali Coast: Express Catamaran Snorkel Tour & Lunch

Summary

Speed along Kauai’s wild Nā Pali cliffs then snorkel with turtles

You’ll ride a speedy catamaran along Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast with local guides who share legends as you pass sea caves and waterfalls. Watch dolphins skim the bow, then snorkel in clear water—gear included—before relaxing with lunch and drinks on deck. Expect to get wet, laugh a lot, and leave with salt in your hair and maybe some new friends.

What’s the experience like?

Li handed me a sandwich and grinned — “Veggie or bacon?” I’d barely found my seat on the ‘Imiloa catamaran before she was making sure everyone was fed. The boat rocked gently at first, but once we left Port Allen behind, the wind picked up and so did the laughter. Our captain started pointing out waterfalls hidden in folds of green cliffs, telling us stories about old Hawaiian kings. I tried to repeat one of the names back — pretty sure I mangled it. Li just laughed and said I had “good spirit.”

The Nā Pali Coast really does look unreal from the water. We zipped past caves where waves crashed so loud you almost had to shout to be heard. At one point, spinner dolphins chased alongside us — they’re faster than you’d think. Someone up front got splashed right in the face and didn’t even care. There’s this salty tang in the air that sticks to your lips, and my shirt was soaked by then, but honestly it felt good under the sun.

When we stopped for snorkeling (the captain checked conditions first), I hesitated — water looked colder than I expected. But once I slid in, it was clear blue and full of darting fish. Saw a turtle gliding below me; for a second everything went quiet except my own breathing through the snorkel. Back on board, there were Mai Tais waiting (after swimming only), plus rice bowls with pulled pork or tofu if you wanted them. My hands were still shaking from swimming but maybe that was just excitement.

I keep thinking about those cliffs — how small we felt next to them, how everyone fell silent for a minute when we drifted close to a waterfall. It wasn’t perfect weather or perfect hair day (forget about that), but something about being out there with strangers who cheered every dolphin made it feel like… well, more than just another day trip along the Nā Pali Coast.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Na Pali Coast Catamaran Adventure

• Board 'Imiloa Express Catamaran
• Enjoy scenic Kauai coastline views
• Spot dolphins and marine life
• Listen to Na Pali history narration
• View sea caves, waterfalls, valleys
• Snorkel at designated location
• Eat breakfast or lunch onboard
• Drink soft drinks, beer, wine, Mai Tais

Top questions

How long is the Nā Pali Coast express snorkel tour?

The tour typically lasts several hours including travel time along the coast and 30–45 minutes of snorkeling depending on ocean conditions.

Is lunch included on this Kauai catamaran tour?

Yes, lunch is included: breakfast sandwiches for morning tours; pulled pork, teriyaki chicken or tofu bowls for afternoon tours (order 48 hours ahead).

Are drinks provided during the Nā Pali Coast boat trip?

Soft drinks are available throughout; alcoholic drinks like beer and Mai Tais are served after snorkeling for guests 21+.

Will I see dolphins or turtles on this tour?

Dolphins are often seen along the bow; sea turtles may be spotted while snorkeling but sightings can’t be guaranteed.

What should I bring for this express catamaran tour?

Bring a towel, sunscreen, rain jacket, camera protected from water, bathing suit, light cover-up, sunglasses or hats that secure well.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Yes—all necessary snorkeling equipment is included in your booking.

Can children join this Nā Pali Coast boat tour?

Children ages 3 and up can join but must be accompanied by an adult; moderate fitness is required.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup; guests meet at Port Allen harbor for departure.

What’s included

Your day includes express catamaran transport along Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast with narration from local guides; breakfast or lunch depending on tour time (with advance order); soft drinks throughout; beer, wine & Mai Tais after snorkeling (21+); use of all snorkel equipment; plus two restrooms onboard and shaded seating areas—just bring yourself ready to get wet!