Kauai Na Pali Coast: Express Catamaran Sunset Cruise & Meal

Summary

Na Pali cliffs up close, wild sea caves and sunset skies on Kauai

You’ll speed along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast by express catamaran with a local guide narrating legends and history. Expect ocean spray, dolphin sightings, dramatic cliffs and sea caves—plus a casual onboard meal as sunset colors fill the sky. It’s lively, sometimes messy fun that leaves you feeling both tiny and lucky.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think I’d ever get used to how the salt sticks to your skin out here. We boarded the ‘Imiloa in Kauai just before the sun started its slow slide down, and honestly, I was a little nervous about getting soaked (they warn you—bring a towel). But as soon as we took off toward the Na Pali Coast, that worry sort of faded into excitement. The boat’s fast—like, really fast—and everyone laughed when a wave splashed over the side and got us right away. Our captain, Kaleo, started pointing out these wild shapes in the cliffs—he said one looked like a sleeping dragon. I could kind of see it.

The closer we got to those green valleys and jagged cliffs, the quieter everyone got. There’s this moment where you just hear wind and water slapping against the hull, nothing else. At one point we spotted spinner dolphins keeping pace with us—one of them actually leapt right next to the bow and someone shrieked (not me… okay maybe me). No swimming or snorkeling on this tour, which honestly was fine by me; just being out there felt enough. The captain told stories about old Hawaiian legends—I wish I remembered more details but my brain was busy soaking in all that blue and green.

We ate dinner on board—a choice between pulled pork (my pick), teriyaki chicken or tofu if you’re veggie. It wasn’t fancy but after all that salty air it tasted way better than I expected. Someone spilled their mai tai when we hit a bump and we all cracked up; it felt like everyone loosened up after that. As we headed back toward Port Allen with the sky going pink-orange behind those cliffs, I caught myself thinking how small I felt out there—in a good way. Still can’t decide if my favorite part was the light on those sea caves or just watching strangers become friends for an evening.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Na Pali Coast Express Catamaran Tour

• Board express catamaran ‘Imiloa
• Travel along Na Pali Coast
• View cliffs, sea caves, waterfalls
• Listen to Captain’s coast stories
• Enjoy casual meal onboard
• Spot dolphins during cruise
• Return after sunset

Top questions

How long is the Na Pali Coast express catamaran tour?

The tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours depending on sunset time.

Is swimming or snorkeling included on this tour?

No, there is no swimming or snorkeling on this express catamaran tour.

What meals are included during the cruise?

You’ll get a choice of pulled pork, teriyaki chicken, or marinated tofu served with rice and vegetables.

Does the boat have shade or bathrooms?

The catamaran has forward-facing seats with partial shade and two bathrooms onboard.

Will I get wet during this Na Pali Coast cruise?

Yes—you should expect to get wet from ocean spray; bring a towel and jacket.

Are drinks available during the tour?

Beer and mai tais are available for guests 21+ with ID.

Is hotel pickup included for this Kauai catamaran tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check your confirmation for meeting location details.

Are children allowed on this cruise?

Yes, children ages 3 and up are welcome on board.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes express catamaran transport along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast with narration from your local guide about Hawaiian history and legends. You’ll be served a casual meal (pulled pork, teriyaki chicken or marinated tofu with rice & vegetables) plus beer or mai tais for adults 21+. The boat has partial shade and bathrooms—just be ready for ocean spray before returning after sunset.