Captain Andy's snorkel and sail

Your Southern Star sailing adventure begins with an early 8am departure from Port Allen on the southwestern shore of Kauaʻi. As you head toward Nā Pali on this comfortable 20 m (66ft) yacht, you’ll have views over the tiny island of Niihau, the golden sands of Polihale State Park’s beach, and the corrugated green ridges of Koke’e State Park. The morning departure generally means calmer conditions and gives you a better chance of encountering pods of playful Hawaiian spinner dolphins. Depending on the time of year, you may even be able to spot whales in these waters.

Enjoy a continental breakfast as you look toward the Nā Pali coastline, which is made up of spectacular sheer-sided sea cliffs, numerous waterfalls and lava tubes. Kauaʻi is the oldest of the six main Hawaiian islands, and this carved coastline is the result of nearly eight million years of exposure to wind, rain, and crashing waves. The crew is knowledgeable in the history and legends of the indigenous people who once inhabited these verdant valleys, and you’ll gain an insight into how they may have lived.

After a relaxing and scenic downwind sail, you’ll pull into one of the more remote snorkeling spots well-known only among local Hawaiians. Here, the yacht will weigh anchor and you can enter the water to explore what lies beneath the waves, including the marine life that lives among the tropical reef. Alternatively, you can simply relax on board. After snorkeling, you can enjoy a lunch freshly prepared by the crew, accompanied by beer or wine. You’ll then take a leisurely cruise back to Port Allen, with the whole experience lasting approximately five and a half hours.