Reviewed by: Pem
Beautiful experience. Boat clean, crew very friendly and helpful. Information about spots on the coast fun. Have done this trip before and liked this the best.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/10/01 |
Activity Date: | 2022/09/27 |
Reviewed by: Dd23
This cruise was perfect for our 6 and 10 yr old kids. We really enjoyed the friendly staff and the snorkeling!
Id also like to add if you get even a teeny bit seasick i highly recommend taking some motion sickness medication. It was choppy and boy did I feel it the last hour or so!
Despite that, I'd do this cruise over again in a heartbeat.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/10/01 |
Activity Date: | 2022/09/29 |
Reviewed by: HawaiiTourist 2022
I do not know where to start. On September 20th we boarded the boat with Captain A’a and his daughter Ri (Ree). They were professional, knowledgeable, fun, and worth every penny. Whether you are serious about snorkeling (like me) or just looking to see the sites (my husband) you will enjoy this excursion.
On land they will divide you up into groups and then Captain A’a will explain the do’s and don’ts while on his boat (by the way do not bring bananas or granola bars as snacks – he will explain). He is serious about the don’ts. The Captain and his daughter are very knowledgeable of the area (ask them anything) and they are so much fun.
I would definitely recommend the Makana Charters and I highly recommend Captain A’a and his daughter. Thank you both for a fabulous time and making us feel like your friend – not just a customer.
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Packages: | Test Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/09/29 |
Reviewed by: Eric
This was a truly epic experience we got to not only see the Na Pali coastline but we got to learn so many interesting facts from the very knowledgable crew. the views were magnificent, and the snorkeling was great we got to see some sea turtles and we got to see a very impressive pod of spinner dolphins as we started the boat ride. I highly recommend this if you are spending some time in Kauai
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/09/21 |
Activity Date: | 2022/09/07 |
Reviewed by: Chris
Very nice one with gorgeous landscape. Our guide was very friendly and provided lots of informations on the history of the Hawaiian civilization as well on the local flora and fauna.
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Packages: | South Shore Departure Package (Check-in at Wailua River Marina) |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/09/19 |
Activity Date: | 2022/09/16 |
Reviewed by: Chelsea
The best crew ever! The cruise started with a great breakfast while we made our way up the coast plenty of food and drinks were available. The Na Pali coast was beautiful as expected! The captain drove us up to the caves so that was a cool unexpected addition. We made our way to the snorkel spot which was very secluded which was nice to be away from the crowds. We saw lot of fish, a monk seal and a turtle. After the snorkel we had a nice lunch then headed back to the harbor. The ride back was super fun with a singalong
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Packages: | Na Pali Coast & Niihau Snorkel Cruise |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/09/13 |
Activity Date: | 2022/09/07 |
Reviewed by: Mom of 3 Happy Kids
My 10 yo and I tend to get motion sickness so we followed their advice and took our meds (Bonnie/dramamine) the night before and the morning of. We had no issues! I think it helped that we were (randomly selected) for the largest of the 3 boats. It was a loooong boat ride. We went about 2.5 hours before we stopped to snorkel and have lunch. There isn't a lot of room but you can bring a beach bag with essentials (I wish I would've brought snacks). The ride was long but also GORGEOUS and fun for kids to look at. We saw a school (?) Of dolphins swimming along with us, monk seals on the beach, and of course the Na Pali coast. Snorkeling was fun and laid back. My 6 yo was able to just use her own goggles (regular pool goggle) and their floaty (similar to a pool noodle). She had a BLAST. My 12 yo and I even jumped off the front of the boat several times. We saw lots of fish and 2 sea turtles. I definitely recommend this tour! If you book - choose the morning ride!!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/08/27 |
Activity Date: | 2022/08/01 |
Reviewed by: Cece
Captain Kam and Asia were wonderful to our small group. We loved being in the smaller 12 person boat. Kam is a very skilled captain and they both always kept our safety a priority. It was fun, incredibly gorgeous view of the Napali coast. We saw dolphins, turtles, went under a waterfall. The best part was we got lucky with the weather and got to experience a unique cave tour as well.
Food was great too, everything was perfect!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/08/21 |
Activity Date: | 2022/08/19 |
Reviewed by: Mplayer
Great TripCaptain Cam and Asia. What a great duo!
Fun yet safe. No Bananas EVER on da boat
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/08/21 |
Activity Date: | 2022/08/19 |
Reviewed by: Debi
Captain Rob and his crew led a wonderful tour. The views were outstanding, his boat maneuvering skills were very impressive and we all just LOVED everything about this experience! Would highly recommend!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/08/09 |
Activity Date: | 2022/08/07 |
Reviewed by: B & C
The tour was a fantastic experience - stunning views and amazing sights. We especially loved the snorkelling at Niihau Island and seeing the rare marine life. From the great views of the canyon to the deep seas along the island, this tour was one of our highlights of the holiday. Crew members were extremely accommodating and helpful and made the experience top class.
We will definitely return and do the tour again when we get the chance.
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Packages: | Na Pali Coast & Niihau Snorkel Cruise |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/08/07 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/13 |
Reviewed by: Jasmin Quidato
One of the best things to do here in Kauai. It was awesome. We would do it again. We saw turtles, dolphins, caves, waterfalls and lotsa fishes!!!
Crew was the best and very friendly and knowledgeable.
I recommend this to everyone that goes in Kauai❤️❤️❤️
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2022/08/02 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/31 |
Reviewed by: SamDP
We had a great time on this tour. Going into the caves was an amazing experience! The snorkeling was great too! We saw dolphins (briefly), turtles, and tons of fish and coral.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/07/30 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/28 |
Reviewed by: Diane G
We had a blast snorkeling with the fish and going into the beautiful caves!!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/07/28 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/23 |
Reviewed by: John
This tour was amazing especially if you have young kids. The captain was amazing and we got to see a ton of amazing things. Dolphins, monk seals, sea caves, na Pali coast, mermaids...ok maybe not the last one. The crew was great and had a ton of great knowledge along with tips on great places to check out on island. Overall I would absolutely tour with them if we come back to the island.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/07/27 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/25 |
Reviewed by: Brandon
We loved this trip. The crew was great, and the whole experience was incredible. We learned so much about Hawaii, and got to see a side of the island few get to experience. We will recommend it to anyone going to Kuai in the future!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/07/24 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/21 |
Reviewed by: Kara
The sea caves are quite frightening but adrenaline rush!!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/07/19 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/19 |
Reviewed by: Donovan Clan
This trip was amazing. The sites are unreal and the snorkeling is great. The crew are professional, courteous, informative (with interesting insights about the geography and Hawaiian culture as you proceed up the coast), and best of all, a bunch of fun. I would definitely recommend this to anyone wanting to spend some time out on the water. Thank you to Captain Mike, Elijah, and Leroy for an excellent adventure!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/07/03 |
Activity Date: | 2022/07/01 |
Reviewed by: Boucher fam
The staff was amazing, the trip was memorable for sure! Would def book with this charter co again!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/06/29 |
Activity Date: | 2022/06/27 |
Reviewed by: Megan
Our family had the best time on this trip. The captain and crew were helpful, informative and very friendly. We saw turtles, dolphins and the snorkeling was great. The sea caves were very memorable We would recommend this tour to our friends and family.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/06/24 |
Activity Date: | 2022/06/22 |
Reviewed by: Saundra S.
This tour surpassed all my expectations. We went out with Captain Sean and Jamie. They were fun and kept the energy and excitement levels high while making sure everyone on our boat's needs was met. This tour is not for the faint of heart! The wave swells can be huge! There's a lot of up and down but when the boat stops for pictures that are when you may get seasick. If that's a problem for you take something or wear acupuncture wrist bands. Our family of 4 wore the wrist bands and 3 of us had no problems. My teen son however ended up vomiting over the side of the boat during the last 1.5 hours of our tour right after the lunch stop. The staff were super helpful, washed off the boat, and gave him ginger chews and sprite. Within a few minutes, he was able to continue on and enjoy the end of the tour. The snorkeling was not off the beach as described on the website due to high winds and waves but they were able to find an area near the coral where our group could get in the sea to snorkel. You had to climb down the ladder in the back of the boat and the water was about 20 feet deep. Again, this is not for weak swimmers. They did provide fins, floats, and anything else you needed to feel safe but made it clear that if you were not a good swimmer, you should stay in the boat. I stayed in the boat while the other 3 strong swimmers got in the water. The staff made a point of throwing out food into the water to bring the fish to the boat so even I got to see some of the most colorful fish I've ever seen in real life up close due to the water being crystal clear and saw a sea turtle. The best part of it all was going into the sea caves! I can't even describe how awesome it was and the staff took the time to take pictures of all the parties in the cave. I would highly recommend this tour!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/06/24 |
Activity Date: | 2022/06/22 |
Reviewed by: Luna
It was an amazing experience. We enjoyed every second of it. From seeing dolphins, sea turtles, the breath taking views and snorkeling. Also, the ride back was a lot if fun!!!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/06/12 |
Activity Date: | 2022/06/09 |
Reviewed by: KGP
Great views of the river and bay. Our guide Jay was great. Highly recommend.
Aloha KGP,
Thanks for your kind and succinct review.
Wil share your honorable mention with Jay.
Thanks again....keep active and paddling.
A hui hou,
Micco
Head Guide
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Packages: | South Shore Departure Package (Check-in at Wailua River Marina) |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/06/03 |
Activity Date: | 2022/05/31 |
Reviewed by: B. Alvarez
We had a great time. Jay & Steve were wonderful and took care of all our needs, while educating us about this beautiful island and it's culture.
Thanks again guys
Aloha B,
Thanks for taking the time to let us know that Jay and Steve continue to do an outstanding job.
On all our tours we try to celebrate the beauty of the environment and leave you with some knowledge to ponder.
Thanks again and looking forward to hosting you on our other tours.
A hui hou,
Micco
Head Guide
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Packages: | North Shore Departure Package (Pick-up at Princeville or Hanalei) |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/05/26 |
Activity Date: | 2022/05/23 |
Reviewed by: Kara
This boat ride was fun but long, beware if you get sea sick as it is choppy!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/05/22 |
Activity Date: | 2022/05/21 |
Reviewed by: Jessica Johnson
Stunning views up close of sea caves, waterfalls, and the incredible Na Pali coastline. Great for families. The crew is very patient and helpful. We had a great time and so glad we went!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/05/11 |
Activity Date: | 2022/05/09 |
Reviewed by: OneHauteMom
This was a lovely activity that was enjoyable for the whole family (kinder, teens, parents, and grandparents). The guides were knowledgeable and entertaining throughout the paddle and dealt marvelously with the various experience levels within the group. We will be going again on our next trip to Kauai!
Aloha One, Does not get any better than paddling and snorkeling on the Bay and River of Hanalei. Glad to hear that you enjoyed the guides as well.
Looking forward to your return and thanks for taking the time to let us know we are doing a good job: it is appreciated
A hui hou,
Micco
Head Guide
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Packages: | North Shore Departure Package (Pick-up at Princeville or Hanalei) |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2022/05/03 |
Activity Date: | 2022/03/29 |
Reviewed by: D Rowley
The weather, cloudy and quite windy, made this cruise less than hoped for.
It cause it to be shorter (didn't go all the way to end of Na Pali Coast), not able to enter the cave, not able to stay in regular snorkel location, and overall duration was 1 hour shorter than scheduled.
I realize this is beyond the control of the crew, but was disappointing.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2022/04/22 |
Activity Date: | 2022/04/15 |
Reviewed by: Michael Emerson
If you visit Kauai in April and want to see the Na Pali Coast then make sure you book with Makana. To navigate the choppy waters you will want a good Captain.
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/04/20 |
Activity Date: | 2022/04/18 |
Reviewed by: Connie
Our trip with Makana Charters was a great time - our guides Cam and Asia were very helpful, knowledgeable and made the trip fun, as well as showing us amazing sights along the Na Pali Coastline. We entered a couple of awesome sea caves, saw turtles and hundreds of fish and sea life snorkeling, learned about the culture and history of the native Kauaian people, and enjoyed great views of the beautiful mountains, waterfalls and beaches all along the coastline. Safety was always front and foremost - we never felt at risk in any way. Would highly recommend Makana Charters - you can't go wrong!
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Packages: | Morning Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2022/04/19 |
Activity Date: | 2022/04/16 |
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Aloha Chris,
Hanalei Bay and environs is definitely "eye candy". Glad you were able to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and learned some facts along the way.
Thanks for sharing.
Until our wakes cross...stay paddling, snorkeling and engaged.
A hui hou,
Micco
Head Guide