Hawaiian Seascapes: Waterfalls & Lava Fields - Safari Explorer
Leave the tourists far behind and explore the deep nature side of Hawaii from a small expedition vessel.
SPECIAL OFFER
7.8*
ECO SCORE
36
PASSENGERS
8
DAYS
3/5
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Hawaii: Drink It In
Whales and dolphins alongside the boat are just the beginning of your Hawaii cruise adventure. Snorkeling in Hawaii means warm water, coral gardens, and neon-colored fish. And you'll remember snorkeling with sea turtles long after you’ve taken off your flippers. Water play, waterfalls, lava fields, and talking story with locals—you’ve never lived aloha quite like this. Learn about local tradition and Hawaiian culture from a kupuna. Discover Hawaii’s remarkable culture, history, and natural treasures all from aboard your 36-passenger yacht.
Travel Curator’s Insights:
- • Evening pa‘ina (feast) and Hawaiian jam session with Molokai locals.
• Talk with a local Kahuna in Molokai’s ancient Halawa Valley.
• Explore remote islands and beaches most tourists never see.
SPECIAL OFFER
Book by Sept 28 and Save $1,500 Per Couple and $1,000 Per Child on Select Dates! Plus Support Maui!
Rates:
From $6,800 per person
Policies and protocols provided before you book.
Nov 18-25, 2023
Nov 25-Dec 2, 2023
Dec 2-9, 2023
Dec 9-16, 2023
Dec 16-23, 2023
Dec 23-30, 2023
Dec 30, 2023- Jan 6, 2024
Jan 6-13, 2024
Ask us for later dates.
November to April Dates
Hover here for specific dates
Departures:
Trip Sustainability Awards
CARBON
Fantastic advances in minimizing carbon footprints at locations.
ENERGY
On the East African Energy Renewal Board
EDUCATION
Runs local educational facilities for children.
Itinerary
Day 1: Molokai – Embarkation
Welcome to Hawaii! You’ll be transferred to our hospitality area on Molokai. Later, the captain and crew greet you with smiles and champagne as you board the awaiting Safari Explorer. This evening, settle in and enjoy dinner aboard the yacht, before a presentation about your week ahead.
Day 2: Molokai
A warm aloha spirit gives you a sense of Hawaii long ago. No stop lights, no high-rises, just a welcome slower pace. “Talk story” with locals and experience their land and traditions as few visitors do. You’ll hear legends and lore, then take in a cultural lesson in taro patches and poi making, or hike to a towering waterfall in Halawa’s cathedral valley—one of the island’s most historic places. At the Molokai Museum, discover the history of this ancient homeland as you enjoy an evening pa‘ina (feast), complete with a home-style Hawaiian jam session.
Day 3: Lana‘i
Gear up for a day of play on the “Private Island.” Thousand foot sea cliffs line the shore and ancient volcanic plugs sit both above and below the water’s surface as host to a wide diversity of marine life. Grab a snorkel, paddle board, or kayak and get in it. Take a stroll to view Sweetheart Rock, a sea stack jutting 80 feet above the crashing surf, and discover the legend of the princess Puu Pehe. Learn about the islands’ plantation days with a visit to the quaint Lana’i Culture and Heritage Center.
Day 4: Maui
Snorkel among coral gardens teeming with underwater life and a known sea turtle habitat. The Humpback National Marine Sanctuary located between Lana’i, Molokai, and Maui provides front-row seats as you cruise through these productive breeding grounds searching for dolphins, whales, and other marine life. Look beneath the surface from your kayak or paddle board. Then stretch your legs in Lahaina for an afternoon amble through this historic town. Or, take a leisurely beach stroll.
Day 5: Captain’s Choice Exploration
Leave it to your captain and crew to seek out and unveil the best opportunities the islands hold in store today. Dramatic volcanic backdrops, marine life sightings, and chances for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all possible!
Day 6: Kona Coast
Fringed by coconut palms, Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park offers a morning of snorkeling filled with corals, sponges, tropical fishes. From the tiniest fish to the widest stretch of coral, it’s all spectacular. Or, explore the rugged coastline on a skiff ride. Follow the lure of the ukulele and round out your day at Koloko-Honokohau National Historic Park. Visit with the ranger (and become a Hawaii Junior Ranger if you choose), hike the trail to petroglyphs, or check out the Kaloko fish pond and remnants of the Aiopio fish trap. Bird watch or relax on the white coral sand beach—you may spot a green sea turtle.
Day 7: Puu Waawaa State Wildlife Sanctuary
You’re off to Puu Waawaa State Wildlife Sanctuary where you and a local naturalist climb the trails above the Kona coast. How will you adventure? Head 6,000 feet up Hualalai Volcano on a long hike up the cool and misty slopes, complete with natural history interpretation. Hike through dryland native forest and past lava tubes, and peer into a pit crater from its edge (if you’re up for it, you can even go inside a lava tube). A shorter option boasts views of craters, fissures, and lava tubes. Recharge and fuel up with lunch at a coffee plantation on the mountain. For your final afternoon, relax onboard or go for one last dip.
This evening celebrate with the Captain’s Dinner and photographic recap of your adventure.
Day 8: Kawaihae Harbor
As the Safari Explorer docks at Kawaihae Harbor, you’ll be transferred to the Kona Airport or to your extended hotel stay.
Activity Level: We understand that not everybody wants the same level of physical activity and we have designed our cruises for a variety of fitness levels. Whether you’re a hard charger, prefer to take it easy, or fall somewhere in between, there’s enough happening on board and ashore for everyone’s enjoyment.
Please Note: Passport required (non-USA citizens). Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary and the order of days may occur to maximize your experience.
Rates
Questions?
I've always thought this was a brilliant way to experience Hawaii. If you're looking to get off the tourist track and enjoy Hawaii's deep nature, this ship trip is for you.
Joy Martinello, Founder
Questions?
What’s Included & Cancellation Policy:
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Group transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embark/disembark day, entry fees to national parks/preserves,
From-the-vessel adventure activities and equipment, exclusive activities and shore visits, all meals aboard the vessel, premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines), non-alcoholic beverages, wellness amenities, onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts, refer to your final guest documents for any additional inclusions specific to your itinerary and vessel.
NOT INCLUDED
Airfare to and from your home city, discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew, travel protection, optional excursions and land tours, port taxes/fees.
