Having been to Kauai for the first time in 2006, I remember hearing about the Na Pali coast and how it was only accessible via hike, viewed from the air or by boat. The road to drive on ends where the majestic cliffs begin and I was thrilled to be able to experience it on a sail and snorkel cruise with Captain Andy’s!
Leaving Port Allen on a 65′ catamaran, we were briefed on how to stay out of the hull of the boat to avoid sea sickness. Now I’m pretty stable when it comes to motion sickness, but we haven’t done it much with my 7 year old, so I gave her children’s Dramamine. 
At the beginning of the trip, she wanted to stay below at the table, it seemed to be her safety zone despite everyone mentioning that fresh air was best. After a few pastries from the continental breakfast and something to drink, she was ready to jump up and hang out on the trampoline and take in the spectacular views!
The early morning (7:15 am departure) allows for the calmest waters, and the chance to experience spinner dolphins like we did! It is so amazing how friendly and social dolphins are. 
We slowed to stop to enjoy them on a few instances and they loved cruising alongside the boat as we continued on our journey. 
Just southwest of Kauai, the private Hawaiian island of Niihau comes into clear view. Purchased from King Kamehameha in 1864, this island has preserved many of the traditional ways of life including the Hawaiian language and is inhabited by about 200 locals and is available to tour by special invitation.
Continuing along, we met up with other vessels who were on a similar amazing adventure and the views got more and more surreal. Kauai is the oldest island and this 15-mile carved coastline is the result of volcanic activity, rain, wind, and wave exposure. In addition to seagoing skills, the crew will educate you on the history and legends of the ancient civilizations that once inhabited these verdant valleys.
I think my mouth was agape the entire trip. The colors, the contrast, the waters, the amazing landscape is unforgettable.
Midway through our trip, we anchored and had the opportunity to snorkel. Last time I did it I was slightly panicked and was able to use a snorkel box which is like a huge view finder. This time both my daughter and I were given boogie boards with a view window that served the same purpose. The waters were 72 degrees and clear as can be. We saw some fish but not like on other adventures I’d been on. My daughter and I floated about with fins and just enjoyed where we were. Shortly after getting back on the boat, a BBQ was prepared with burgers and beans, while they literally baked cookies on board for dessert. Food tastes so much better surrounded by beauty!
Probably the best part of the trip was viewing the Cathedrals, peaks that seem to touch heaven in all their glory!
On our cruise back, we sat atop with the Captain and listened to him talk and steer the boat. The sun was shining on us, the wind in our hair, and the views still spectacular in every direction! 
This tour is worth the money ten fold. It’s 5.5 hours of history, geology, nature’s architecture, and a feast for your eyes and soul. The food, drink, and snorkel are just icing on the cake. If you are in Kauai, it can’t be beat and the images in your memory will last forever!
Our tour was part of our Media Trip, all opinions are my own.
