Kauai Na Pali Coast: Sunset Snorkel Cruise & Dinner Drinks

Summary

Na Pali sunset cruise snorkeling dolphins dinner drinks

You’ll share laughs with local crew, snorkel off Kauai’s Na Pali Coast if conditions are right, spot dolphins or turtles from your catamaran deck, then eat barefoot as the sun sets behind wild green cliffs. This sunset cruise blends casual food, open-bar drinks, and warm company—leaving you with memories that feel more like stories than snapshots.

What’s the experience like?

Li handed me a mask and grinned, “You’ll want to jump in quick—water’s perfect today.” I’d barely finished my awkward attempt at “mahalo” before she was already helping a kid into his lifejacket. The Na Pali Coast looked unreal, all those green cliffs and waterfalls, but it was the way our guide talked about the coastline—like it was an old friend—that stuck with me. There was this salty breeze, mixed with sunscreen and something sweet from the bar (Mai Tai? I’m still not sure), and everyone just sort of relaxed into it.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a “deluxe” tour. We spotted dolphins racing the Lucky Lady—our catamaran—and someone yelled when a turtle popped up near the bow. My goggles fogged up instantly when I tried snorkeling (classic), but floating there, hearing muffled laughter above and seeing flashes of fish below, felt oddly peaceful. Dinner was tacos—pulled pork for me, tofu for my partner—and we ate them barefoot on deck while the sky turned pink. The salsa dripped everywhere but no one cared. Our captain kept pointing out stories in the rock faces; I only caught half of them because I was distracted by the colors changing every few minutes.

Coming back toward Port Allen, everyone got quiet for a bit. Maybe it was the light fading or maybe just that warm full feeling after swimming and eating too much. Someone played ukulele quietly near the bar (I think he worked on board?), and honestly—I still think about that view over my shoulder as we cruised home. If you’re looking for some polished luxury thing, this isn’t quite that… but if you want to feel like you’re part of the island for an afternoon, even just a little bit, well—it’s hard to beat this day trip along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Na Pali Coast Sunset Snorkel Tour

• Check in at 1:15 PM
• Depart aboard Lucky Lady catamaran
• Swim or snorkel stop (30-45 minutes)
• Enjoy light casual dinner onboard
• Drink beer, wine, and Mai Tais
• Watch for dolphins and sea turtles
• View romantic Hawaiian sunset
• Return to port

Top questions

How long does the Na Pali Coast sunset snorkel tour last?

The tour duration starts at departure (not check-in) and varies depending on sunset time; expect several hours on board.

Is snorkeling always included on this Kauai sunset cruise?

Snorkeling is included when ocean conditions permit; otherwise there are other highlights along the route.

What kind of food is served during the cruise?

A casual dinner buffet includes pulled pork, marinated chicken, seasoned tofu tacos, rice, beans, salads, dessert, and drinks.

Are alcoholic drinks included on this Na Pali Coast tour?

Yes—beer, wine, and Mai Tais are included for guests over 21 (with ID).

Is pickup included for this Kauai catamaran tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests check in at Port Allen before departure.

What should I bring or wear for this sunset snorkel trip?

Bring a towel, non-spray sunscreen, rain jacket, camera (protected from water), medications if needed; wear bathing suit and light cover-up.

Can children join this Na Pali Coast sunset cruise?

The minimum age is 3 years old; families are welcome if children meet requirements.

Is public transportation available to reach Port Allen?

Yes—public transportation options are available nearby Port Allen harbor.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes use of snorkeling gear with expert instructions if you need them (plus noodles or lifejackets for extra float), all soft drinks plus beer, wine and Mai Tais at the open bar (with ID), a casual island-style taco buffet dinner with dessert served barefoot on deck as you sail past waterfalls and sea cliffs—guided by local crew aboard a certified catamaran from Port Allen.