Na Pali Coast Boat Tours with Kauai's Cultural Captains

10,000+ 5-Star Reviews

Native Hawaiian Owned

Snorkeling and Deli Lunches

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Na Pali Coast Boat Tours with Over 10,000 5-Star Reviews

Over 10,000 guests have left five-star reviews after their Na Pali Coast boat tour with Makana Charters. They come for stunning views of the Na Pali Coast, sea cave exploration, snorkeling, and the comfort of a small-group powered catamaran tour.

4.9 10,430 Reviews

4.9 4,968 Reviews

Makana Charters TripAdvisor awards from 2017 to 2026, including Certificates of Excellence and Travelers' Choice recognitions

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Terry Kreifels 3 weeks ago

The cruise has incredible views! And the crew on board was absolutely terrific! We got to see a few caves, fish (flying fish), turtles, waterfalls. The captain made us feel very safe during the entire trip. Most of people also went snorkeling and Makana provided all of the equipment. Near the end of cruise we slowed down and enjoyed a lunch provided by Makana. It was perfect! My wife and I highly recommend this tour. We were on the Amelia K. It has 2 nice and convenient restrooms (men’s and women’s).

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Tom Winters 3 weeks ago

Great adventure to The Nā Pali Coast-highlight of our trip to Kaua’i! Mike, our captain, and his crew are excellent. We felt safe and thoroughly enjoyed our time aboard.

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Claudia Souza 3 weeks ago

Fantastic experience and company! Would definitely book with them again. We have been to Kauai a few times but have never done a boat trip to Na Pali Coast- wow we were really missing out! This is a must do experience! We saw over 200 spinner dolphins, 2 monk seals, a number of sea turtles, water falls, multiple sea caves! It was incredible!

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Jon 3 weeks ago

Captain Mike is a great skilled captain!! We went as family of 4 saw some awesome sea caves, waterfalls, turtles, monk seals and dolphins. The Napali coastline is breath taking and a must see if visiting the beautiful island of Kuai. Highly recommend Makana Charters!

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April Tyra 3 weeks ago

Such a fun experience!! Would definitely do it again!

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Derek Bretey 3 weeks ago

Awesome crew, comfortable boat, incredible views

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Choose Your Na Pali Coast Boat Tour

Pick from four custom catamarans, each running the same 4.5- to 5-hour Na Pali Coast boat tour featuring dolphins, sea caves, snorkeling, and a deli lunch. Whether you want a small-group experience or more space to spread out, every boat is built for comfort, safety, and views of the Na Pali Coast. Sea cave entry and snorkeling are weather-dependent. All four catamarans deliver the same intimate Na Pali Coast tour.

All of our catamarans provide the same intimate tour

A white catamaran tour boat filled with passengers navigating through a narrow opening of a rocky sea cave.

360-degree walk-around deck of the Na Pali Kai III for photographing the Na Pali Coast

Na Pali Kai III catamaran on a Na Pali Coast boat tour from Kekaha, Kauai

Makana Charters crew member on the Na Pali Kai III's side deck cruising past the Na Pali Coast cliffs

Sea cave entry on a Na Pali Kai III Na Pali Coast tour

Na Pali Kai III catamaran cruising the Kauai coast on a Na Pali boat tour

Na Pali Kai III

Max Passengers: 32 Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours

Na Pali Kai III is the boat for photographers and families. Its 360° walk-around deck — the only one in our fleet — lets you move freely for unobstructed shots of the cliffs, waterfalls, and sea caves from every angle. After snorkeling, rinse off at the open-air freshwater shower, with a spacious onboard restroom for the trip. Ideal for larger families and groups traveling together. Welcomes children ages 4 and up. For additional information, please visit our FAQ.

Amenities Included:

Marine Facility (onboard restroom) Deli Lunch Snacks & Mixed Soft Drinks Snorkel Gear Snorkeling Easy Access Boarding

Pricing: (tax not included in price):

Adults: $199 Children: $169

A Makana Charters tour boat floating in vivid turquoise water at the entrance of a dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cave with towering dark volcanic rock walls on a Kauai sea caves tour, Hawaii.

A sleek black Makana Charters tour boat speeding through turquoise water along the base of the lush green Na Pali Coast sea cliffs on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat alongside a cascading waterfall inside a dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cave with vivid blue water on a Kauai sea caves tour, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat floating in turquoise water beneath a natural waterfall cascading down the dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cliffs on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

The view from inside a dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cave looking out through the cave opening toward the bright blue ocean and rugged coastline beyond on a Kauai sea caves tour, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat cruising in turquoise water beneath the towering, cloud-shrouded green and dark Na Pali Coast sea cliffs on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

A dramatic shaft of light streaming into a dark Na Pali Coast sea cave illuminating the turquoise water and rocky walls beside a Makana Charters tour boat on a Kauai sea caves tour, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat anchored in calm turquoise water beneath the towering green and rust Na Pali Coast sea cliffs near a secluded beach on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat entering a glowing Kauai sea cave with vivid turquoise water and dramatic volcanic rock walls on a Kauai sea caves tour, Na Pali Coast, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat floating in vivid turquoise water at the base of a massive Na Pali Coast sea cave arch with a sandy beach visible through the opening on a Kauai sea caves tour, Hawaii.

Seiko 1 & 2

Max Passengers: 16 Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours

The Seiko is a 34′ power catamaran built for a small-group Na Pali Coast tour. Coast Guard certified for 20, we hold each trip to 16 so there’s always room to move around, snorkel, and take in the sea caves without the crowd — up to 18 for private charters. Ages 9 and up. For additional information please visit our FAQ.

Amenities Included:

Marine Facility (onboard restroom) Deli Lunch Snacks & Mixed Soft Drinks Snorkel Gear Snorkeling Easy Access Boarding

Pricing: (tax not included in price):

Adults: $219 Children: $189

The Leialoha, a Makana Charters tour boat, cruising in vivid turquoise water beneath the towering green and rust Na Pali Coast sea cliffs on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

Guests leaning over the rail of a Makana Charters tour boat watching wild spinner dolphins swimming alongside the boat in clear blue water on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

The deck of a Makana Charters tour boat inside a dramatic Kauai sea cave with a powerful waterfall cascading down the volcanic rock walls and natural light streaming through the cave opening above, on a Kauai sea caves tour, Na Pali Coast, Hawaii.

The bow of a Makana Charters tour boat gliding through mirror-calm turquoise water toward the dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cliffs under a bright blue sky with dramatic clouds, Kauai, Hawaii.

The Amelia K, a Makana Charters luxury tour boat, anchored in calm golden water at sunset beneath the dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cliffs on a Na Pali Coast sunset cruise, Kauai, Hawaii.

A Makana Charters tour boat navigating through a narrow Kauai sea cave passage with dramatic volcanic rock walls and glowing turquoise water on a Kauai sea caves tour, Na Pali Coast, Hawaii.

A vivid ocean-level view of the Na Pali Coast's sunlit green and rust-colored ridgelines and sea cliffs rising above the turquoise water on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

Golden sunlight streaming through a gap in the dramatic Na Pali Coast sea cliffs over vivid turquoise water on a Na Pali Coast boat tour, Kauai, Hawaii.

Leialoha

Max Passengers: 18 Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours

Leialoha is the newest boat in our fleet — a 36′ power catamaran that seats up to 18 on a regular small-group departure, so a slightly larger family or friend group can ride together. Comfortable seating, an onboard restroom, and open views the whole way as you snorkel the reef and explore the sea caves. Ages 9 and up. For additional information please visit our FAQ.

Amenities Included:

1 Marine Facility (onboard restroom) Deli Lunch Snacks & Mixed Soft Drinks Snorkel Gear Snorkeling Easy Access Boarding

Pricing: (tax not included in price):

Adult: $219 Childdren: $189

Guests swimming in clear Na Pali Coast water from the Makana catamaran on a Kauai tour

The Makana catamaran exiting a Na Pali Coast sea cave on a Kauai boat tour

Guests aboard the Makana enjoying Na Pali Coast cliffside views

Makana catamaran snorkeling stop along the Na Pali Coast

Sea cave entry on the Makana catamaran Na Pali Coast tour

The Makana catamaran inside a Na Pali Coast sea cave next to a waterfall on Kauai

The Makana catamaran inside a Na Pali Coast sea cave on a Kauai boat tour

Onboard amenities on the Makana including restroom and snorkel gear

Makana

Max Passengers: 12 Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours

With just 12 guests aboard, the Makana is the most intimate way to see the Na Pali Coast. This 32′ custom-built catamaran was designed for room to spread out — every seat has space and a clear view as you snorkel the reef and glide past the sea caves. The smallest group on the water. Ages 9 and up. For additional information please visit our FAQ.

Amenities Included:

Marine Facility (onboard restroom) Deli Lunch Snacks & Mixed Soft Drinks Snorkel Gear Snorkeling Easy Access Boarding

Pricing: (tax not included in price):

Adults: $219 Children: $189

Amelia K 47-foot luxury catamaran departing Port Allen for a Na Pali Coast tour Caption: The Amelia K is our only boat that departs from Port Allen — check your confirmation for the harbor.

Plush seating on the Amelia K catamaran during a Na Pali Coast boat tour

Amelia K catamaran cruising past Na Pali Coast cliffs on Kauai

Spacious deck of the Amelia K catamaran for Na Pali Coast viewing

Onboard restrooms and freshwater shower on the Amelia K catamaran

Amelia K catamaran entering a Na Pali Coast sea cave on a Kauai boat tour

Guests relaxing on the Amelia K during a Na Pali Coast snorkel tourDesigned for relaxation as much as adventure.

View from inside a Na Pali Coast sea cave looking out to the ocean on a Makana Charters Kauai tour

Amelia K

Max Passengers: 36 Duration: 4.5 - 5 Hours

At 47′ and seating up to 36, the Amelia K is our largest and most luxurious catamaran — plush seating throughout and a smooth, stable ride that makes for the most comfortable day on the coast. She carries two onboard restrooms and an open-air freshwater shower for after you snorkel the reef and drift past the sea caves. Welcomes children ages 4 and up. For additional information please visit our FAQ.

Amenities Included:

2 Marine Facility (onboard restroom) Deli Lunch Snacks & Mixed Soft Drinks Snorkel Gear Snorkeling Easy Access Boarding

Pricing: (tax not included in price):

Adults: $199 Children: $169

Private Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

Discover the ultimate way to experience Kauai’s iconic coast with our private Na Pali Coast boat tour. Tailored just for you, these intimate adventures let you explore hidden sea caves, pristine waters, and breathtaking cliffs at your own pace, creating memories that are truly yours to treasure.

Two hundred years ago, as a native, we were the first to showcase the breathtaking Na Pali Coast to a foreign family on our double-hull sailing vessel right from our office (till today)

In the early 1800s, aboard one of our two large 60+ft double-hull sailing vessels, we began our amazing royal heritage from our office that we are fortunate to still have and operate today. We cherish our 5 great grandparents rich history as governess which includes being the first to sail the Na Pali Coast with a foreigner, allowing the first churches, naming Lihu’e, creating schools, developed the first economy here on Kaua’i, & so much more.

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Why Book Your Na Pali Coast Boat Tour with Makana Charters?

Makana Charters catamaran cruising the Na Pali Coast cliffs on a Kauai boat tour

Native Hawaiian Owned & Family Operated
More Coast Time with Closer Departure
Explore Sea Caves & Abundant Marine Life
Smaller groups for a personalized tour
All-Inclusive Snorkel Gear & Flotation Devices
Tasty Deli Lunch & Refreshing Local Drinks
Ages 4+ Welcome (Weather Permitting)
Convenient Onboard Restroom

Guests aboard a Makana Charters catamaran enjoying a deli lunch on the Na Pali Coast

A Makana Charters Native Hawaiian captain greeting guests before a Na Pali Coast tour

nside a Na Pali Coast sea cave from a Makana Charters Kauai boat tour

See a Na Pali Coast Boat Tour in Action

Get a sneak peek of what awaits you on a Na Pali Coast boat tour. Watch the video to explore the towering Kauai cliffs, sea caves, and abundant marine life you’ll encounter on a Na Pali Coast catamaran tour with Makana Charters.

Na Pali Coast Boat Tour Photo Gallery

Step into the world of Makana Charters through our gallery, where every photo captures a moment from a Na Pali Coast boat tour. From sea cave entries and snorkel stops to dolphin pods and the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, get a glimpse of the Kauai boat tour adventure waiting for you.

Have Questions? Find Answers in Our FAQ

Not sure what to bring, where to check in, or how to book your tour? Visit our Frequently Asked Questions page for all the details you need to plan your Na Pali Coast adventure. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to contact us, we’re happy to help!

View FAQ

1800's Our royal hale pili , our office till today and our sailing catamarans.

Makana Charters is a native Hawaiian family owned business that takes pride in providing the best possible experience for visitors to Kauai. We have been offering tours of the Na Pali coast on custom-built touring catamarans that were designed to provide the ultimate touring experience.

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Contact Makana Charters

Visit Our Office

4516 Alawai Rd, Waimea, HI 96796

Give Us A Call

(808) 338-9980

Email Us

info@makanacharters.com

Kauai Na Pali Coast Boat Tours FAQs

Quick answers to the most common FAQ about Makana Charters Kauai Na Pali Coast boat tours.

What makes Makana Charters Na Pali Coast boat tours so special?

Makana Charters is a Native Hawaiian family-owned business with roots on Kauai dating back to the 1800s, and that heritage shows up in every tour. Our cultural captains bring the coastline to life in a way no other company can, and with over 10,000 five-star reviews, we’ve built a reputation for authenticity, small groups, and an all-inclusive experience that covers snorkeling, deli lunch, and local drinks from the moment you board.

Makana Charters boat anchored at a Na Pali Coast beach beneath towering green cliffs on Kauai

Reaching Na Pali Coast beaches that are inaccessible by car — Kalalau Coast, Kauai

What is the best Na Pali Coast boat tour activity?

The best Na Pali Coast boat tour combines snorkeling, sea caves, dolphin watching, and dramatic cliffside views all in one trip, and that’s exactly what Makana Charters delivers.

What is the best Na Pali Coast powered catamaran tour on Kauai?

Makana Charters operates four custom built powered catamarans, the Na Pali Kai III, Amelia K, Seiko 1, Seiko 2, and Makana, each built for comfort, stability, and getting you as close to the coastline as possible. Tours run 4.5 to 5 hours and include sea cave exploration, snorkeling, dolphin watching, and a deli lunch.

Makana Charters powered catamaran cruising the Na Pali Coast cliffs on a Kauai snorkel tour

One of our four custom-built powered catamarans on a 4.5-hour Na Pali Coast tour

Where do the Makana Charters Na Pali Coast boat tours depart from?

Most of our boats depart from Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor in Kekaha, closer to the Na Pali Coast than Port Allen, so you spend less time traveling and more time exploring. Our Amelia K departs from Port Allen. Your confirmation will tell you exactly which harbor to head to.

What are the best Kauai snorkeling tours on the Na Pali Coast?

Na Pali Coast snorkeling tours put you in some of the clearest, most biodiverse water on the island, sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and calm protected coves that are hard to reach any other way. Makana Charters includes stops at prime snorkeling spots along the Na Pali coastline on every tour.

Guest on a Makana Charters Na Pali Coast snorkel tour swimming with reef fish in clear Kauai water

Our Na Pali Coast snorkel tours bring you up close with tropical reef fish and frequent sea turtle sightings in clear Kauai water

Can I see dolphins on a Kauai Na Pali Coast boat tour?

Spinner dolphins are a regular sight along the Na Pali Coast, especially on morning tours when they’re most active. Makana Charters tours pass through prime dolphin territory, and our captains know exactly where to look. Whale watching is also possible during humpback season, typically running November through March.

Spinner dolphins swimming alongside a Makana Charters tour boat on the Na Pali Coast, Kauai

Spinner dolphins are most active on morning Na Pali Coast tours from Kekaha

What are the Kauai sea cave boat tours like on the Na Pali Coast?

The Na Pali Coast sea caves are one of the most dramatic things you can experience on Kauai, and a boat is the only way to get inside them. Makana Charters takes you directly into the caves along the coastline, including the famous open-ceiling cave, with captains who know every inch of the route. Sea cave access is weather-dependent.

Does Makana Charters offer a Napali Coast sunset cruise?

Yes. Makana Charters offers afternoon and sunset tours departing from Kekaha, putting you on the water closer to the Na Pali Coast than most other operators on the island. As the sun drops behind the cliffs, the light on Na Pali turns gold and pink in a way that’s hard to put into words.

Is a Kauai private boat charter available through Makana Charters?

Yes. Makana Charters offers private Na Pali Coast boat charters on all of their catamarans. Private charters are fully customizable for your group, include the same all-inclusive snorkel gear, deli lunch, and cultural narration as our shared tours, and can accommodate groups looking for an exclusive, intimate Na Pali Coast experience.

Visit Our Office

Our Office Is Located At:
4516 Alawai Rd, Waimea, HI 96796

We Have Two Departure Locations For Tours.
Please Check Your Reservation To Find Your Location.

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