Booking choice: The sea caves raft and snorkel, from $255 per person. Check dates Compare the options below
Na Pali Riders' own listing calls its Zodiac "a wild and rough ride", and reviewers agree, mostly with delight. The raft runs fast over open ocean swell to reach the cliffs, and you feel every wave.
That makes it the best way to the sea caves and the wrong choice for some bodies. Here is how to tell which you are.
The quick answer
Expect a fast, bouncing, wet ride on open ocean. Rafts do not take pregnant guests, anyone with back or neck problems, heart conditions or recent surgery, or children under 5 to 7 (by operator). If you are prone to seasickness, take medicine before boarding, choose a morning departure and sit towards the back, or pick a catamaran.
How rough is the Na Pali raft ride?
Rough: think white-water rafting on the ocean, with constant bumps, spray and the odd big slam over swell.
One reviewer put it as "comparable to white water rafting but more controlled"; another warned "it is a bumpy ride out so be prepared but it is worth it". The way out is often the roughest stretch. Inside the caves and at the snorkel stop the boat slows right down.
Up for the thrill? The morning sea caves raft is the calmest version of it.
Check dates for the sea caves raft and snorkelWho cannot go on a raft tour?
Pregnant guests, anyone with back or neck problems, heart or other serious medical conditions, recent surgery, and young children.
Na Pali Riders and the Kauai Sea Tours rafts exclude all of these; Kauai Sea Tours also lists hip, knee and other joint problems and mobility issues. Captain J's says guests with back, neck or heart issues are not permitted. Operators do not refund guests who arrive with undisclosed conditions, so take it seriously.
Will I get seasick?
Some people do: reviewers mention seasick passengers, and rafts do not turn back early.
Take your preferred motion-sickness medicine before you board (ask a doctor which suits you), eat a light breakfast, avoid alcohol the night before, keep your eyes on the horizon and stay in the fresh air. Wristbands help some people.
Where should I sit?
Towards the back for a softer ride; the front bounces most and gets the most spray.
Crews seat people to balance the raft, so ask at boarding. A reviewer noted it is bumpiest "especially if you're sitting on the edge of the boat". Contact lens wearers should bring goggles or wear glasses with a strap.
Is the raft safe for kids?
Yes for confident children above the minimum age: 5 with Na Pali Riders, 6 with Captain J's, 7 with Kauai Sea Tours.
Many families with children aged 8 to 12 rate it the best day of their trip. Children must be with an adult. If your child dislikes waves or loud engines, choose a catamaran.
Want a gentler day for the family? The Makana catamaran has shade, a restroom and lunch.
Explore the Makana catamaranWhat if the sea is too rough on the day?
The captain decides: the tour may skip the caves or snorkel stop, reroute, or cancel.
If Na Pali Riders cancels for conditions, you choose a new date or a full refund. Kauai Sea Tours notes its rafts may reroute to the south coast when needed.
What are the calmer alternatives?
A catamaran, a morning departure in summer, or a helicopter flight over the coast.
The Safari Helicopters flight shows the cliffs and Waimea Canyon in 55 minutes with no seasickness. See raft vs catamaran for the boat options.
Frequently asked questions
Can pregnant women go on a Na Pali raft tour?
No. Na Pali Riders, Captain J's and Kauai Sea Tours all exclude pregnant guests on their rafts.
Is the Na Pali raft tour bad for your back?
It can be. Operators exclude anyone with back or neck problems because of the repeated impacts.
Do they turn back if someone is seasick?
Generally no: plan for the full trip and take medicine before you board.
Ready to book
Choose your boat
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before on every option. Prices are from-prices in USD and move with the season.
Na Pali Sea Caves Raft & Snorkel Expedition
- Guided Zodiac raft tour along the Na Pali Coast, sea caves when conditions allow
- Snorkel stop with mask, snorkel and fins (conditions permitting)
- Fruit, chips, juice, water and Gatorade; dry bag; optional life jackets
Makana Charters Na Pali Catamaran Tour
- Shared catamaran trip along the Na Pali Coast, sea caves when conditions allow
- Snorkel gear in season; whale watching in winter
- Sandwich lunch, snacks, water and soft drinks
