ON SALE
Read 0 review
Share this trip with a friend
From
From Discovery and CruisingTo Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
Share this trip
Set across the Hawaiian Islands of Molokai, Lana‘i, Maui and the Big Island, this 7-night small-ship voyage explores a diverse coastal and marine environment. Travelling by expedition vessel, the journey combines time on the water with daily opportunities to snorkel, kayak and explore by skiff. On the Big Island, walk across volcanic landscapes shaped by past lava flows and experience a night snorkel with manta rays (conditions permitting). Cruise through protected marine areas where dolphins, whales and other ocean life may be encountered. On Molokai, gain insight into local traditions in Halawa Valley, including stories, food practices and a community pa‘ina.
Read more...
Expand all | Collapse all
Day 1
Embark in Kailua-Kona
Arrive in Hawaii and transfer to a hospitality area in Kailua-Kona before boarding the Safari Explorer. You are welcomed on board by the captain and crew, with time to settle into your cabin. Dinner is served on board, followed by a presentation outlining the journey ahead.
Meals: D
Day 2
Big Island and Kealakekua Bay
Travel to Kealakekua Bay, known for its clear waters and marine life. Spend time snorkelling or kayaking, with opportunities to see tropical fish, sea turtles and possibly dolphins. After lunch, depart the bay and continue with a marine mammal search, which may include the remote South Point area.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Big Island
Begin the day with a hike on the slopes of Hualalai Volcano (approx. 1,980m / 6,500ft) above the Kona coast. The route crosses lava flows, passes pit craters and moves through native forest, including a visit to a lava tube. In the evening, there is an opportunity to snorkel with manta rays from an offshore anchorage, with activities conducted under guidelines designed to minimise disturbance (conditions permitting).
Day 4
Maui
Snorkel in coral reef areas that support a variety of marine life, including sea turtles. Cruise through the Humpback National Marine Sanctuary between Lana‘i, Molokai and Maui, where dolphins, whales and other marine species may be seen. Time may also be spent kayaking in sheltered coastal areas.
Day 5
Lana‘i
Explore the coastline of Lana‘i, where sea cliffs and volcanic features meet the ocean. Snorkelling offers the chance to observe a range of marine life. On land, choose from a range of activities including visiting Lana‘i City, biking, or exploring walking trails.
Day 6
Captain’s Choice
Today’s activities vary depending on conditions and the captain’s selection. Options may include kayaking along coastal areas, snorkelling, or exploring by skiff around parts of Maui, Lana‘i or Molokai. Throughout the day, keep watch for marine and bird life with guidance from onboard naturalists.
Day 7
Molokai
On Molokai, experience a slower-paced island environment with time spent in Halawa Valley. Learn about local traditions, stories and food practices, including taro cultivation and poi making. There may also be an opportunity to walk to a waterfall. In the evening, attend a pa‘ina, a community gathering with local food, music and storytelling.
Day 8
Disembark in Molokai
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Molokai Airport.
Meals: B
Embark in Molokai
Arrive in Hawaii and transfer to a hospitality area in Molokai before boarding the Safari Explorer. You are welcomed on board by the captain and crew, with time to settle into your cabin. Dinner is served on board, followed by a presentation outlining the journey ahead.
Disembark in Kailua-Kona
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Kailua-Kona.
What's included
What's not included
Our voyages are designed for curious, capable travellers—not just passengers. While our itineraries offer a range of activities, from gentle zodiac cruises to more challenging hikes and snorkels, it’s essential to understand the nature of this experience before you join us. These expeditions are suitable for most travellers with an adventurous spirit, good health, and the ability to move confidently on a small vessel—especially in changing weather and sea conditions. Some shore landings and activities may involve uneven terrain, wet landings, or light scrambling. Boarding zodiacs and moving around the vessel may require balance and agility, though assistance is always provided. Our snorkelling and kayaking program is designed for guests looking for a deeper connection with the places we visit. Of course, all activities are optional—and you’re welcome to enjoy the boat at your own pace. Not sure if this trip suits you? Please get in touch with our team—we’re here to help you choose the experience that’s right for you
Safari Explorer is an intimate expedition yacht offering a highly personalised small-ship experience in Alaska and Hawaii. Carrying just 36 guests, the vessel delivers a relaxed and social onboard atmosphere while retaining the capability to access remote bays, shallow inlets and rarely visited coastal regions. Originally built as a research vessel and later transformed into a boutique expedition yacht, Safari Explorer combines rugged capability with refined onboard comfort. Spacious decks, an open bridge policy and a welcoming lounge and wine library keep guests closely connected to the surrounding environment throughout the journey. With a strong focus on active exploration, the vessel is equipped for kayaking, snorkelling, skiff excursions and guided hikes, making it ideal for travellers seeking immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences in remote marine environments.
Commodore Suite - 2 cabins
Size: approx. 24–26 sqm / 255–275 sq ft
Beds: King bed or two twins
The Commodore Suites are the most spacious accommodation onboard, located on the upper deck with large windows and a small private balcony. Each suite features a separate sitting area, private ensuite bathroom with shower and spa bath, individual climate control, desk space and generous storage, offering a comfortable and refined retreat.
Junior Commodore Suite - 1 Cabin
Size: approx. 15–16 sqm / 165–175 sq ft
The Jr Commodore Suite offers additional space with a small sitting area and forward-facing views. The cabin includes a private ensuite bathroom with shower and spa bath, individual climate control, desk and storage space, providing a comfortable and well-appointed option onboard.
Admiral Staterooms - 3 cabins
Size: approx. 18–24 sqm / 195–260 sq ft
Admiral Staterooms are among the more spacious staterooms onboard, featuring large windows and well-designed layouts. Each cabin includes a private ensuite bathroom with spa bath and shower, individual climate control, desk and wardrobe storage, creating a comfortable base for the voyage.
Trailblazer Staterooms - 2 cabins
Size: approx. 11–13 sqm / 120–140 sq ft
Beds: Queen or twin beds
Trailblazer Staterooms are compact ocean-view cabins with efficient layouts and easy access to deck areas. Each includes a private ensuite bathroom with shower, individual climate control, desk and storage space, offering practical comfort for an active expedition.
Navigator Staterooms - 10 cabins
Size: approx. 10–12 sqm / 105–130 sq ft
Navigator Staterooms provide comfortable and functional accommodation with view windows and all essential amenities. Each cabin features a private ensuite bathroom with shower, individual climate control, desk and storage space, ideal for guests spending most of their time exploring.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.
8 Days
11 Days