Hawaii | Small ship active cruising

Explore Molokai, Lana‘i, Maui and the Big Island

The picturesque Halawa Valley

Snorkelling with sea turtles

Kayaking the coast of Hawaii

Hiking on Lanai, Hawaii

Kayaking the coast of Hawaii's Big Island

Colourful sea urchin

The picturesque Halawa Valley

Snorkelling with sea turtles

Kayaking the coast of Hawaii

Hiking on Lanai, Hawaii

Kayaking the coast of Hawaii's Big Island

Colourful sea urchin

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8 Days$6900USD

View Inclusions

Activities

7 days adventure cruising with optional kayaking, snorkelling, paddleboarding and hiking

Accommodation

7 nights aboard Safari Explorer

Meals

7 Dinners
6 Lunches
7 Breakfasts

Trip highlights

Discover a night snorkelling experience with Giant Pacific manta rays
Explore Hualalai Volcano on foot, including lava flows and a lava tube
Hike along elevated ridgelines with views across the Pacific Ocean
Visit Halawa Valley on Molokai and relax at a traditional community pa‘ina
Snorkel through coral gardens in a known sea turtle habitat

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.

Itinerary

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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).

Meals: B,L,D

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.

Meals: B,L,D

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.

Meals: B,L,D

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.

Meals: B,L,D

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.

Meals: B,L,D

Day 8
Disembark in Molokai

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to Molokai Airport.

Meals: B

Map

Inclusions

What's included

7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
Twin share cabin accommodation
Wine, beer, liquor, and craft cocktails
Entry fess to national parks
Snorkelling equipment
Use of kayaks and paddle boards
Local guide and crew
Airport transfers

What's not included

International flights to and from the point of embarkation
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry etc.
Tips
Airport & departure taxes
Visas
Travel insurance

What to Know Before You Join Us

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

Vessel

Safari Explorer

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.

Cabins

Safari Explorer

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.

Safari Explorer

Junior Commodore Suite - 1 Cabin

Size: approx. 15–16 sqm / 165–175 sq ft

Beds: King bed or two twins

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.

Safari Explorer

Admiral Staterooms - 3 cabins

Size: approx. 18–24 sqm / 195–260 sq ft

Beds: King bed or two twins

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.

Safari Explorer

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.

Safari Explorer

Navigator Staterooms - 10 cabins

Size: approx. 10–12 sqm / 105–130 sq ft

Beds: Queen or twin beds

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.

Departure dates

Notes

Trip runs in reverse from Molokai to Kona

Mandatory Port fees & taxes are not included in the cabin price and are an additional charge

Dates don't fit?
Create a Private Trip

If you have your own group, talk to us about turning this itinerary into your own private adventure.

Priceper person from

$6900USD

Options & Supplements*

Trailblazer CabinUSD$7700
Admiral CabinUSD$8900
Jr Commodore SuiteUSD$9700
Commodore SuiteUSD$11500
Navigator Cabin - SINGLEUSD$12100
Trailblazer Cabin - SINGLEUSD$13500
Admiral Cabin - SINGLEUSD$15600
Jr Commodore Suite - SINGLEUSD$17000
Commodore Suite - SINGLEUSD$20100
Mandatory Port Fees & TaxesUSD$375

*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Hawaiian Seascapes: Coastal Discovery trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.