Blue Dolphin Charters
Blue Dolphin Charters
4.5
Scuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursEco ToursSightseeing ToursDolphin & Whale Watching
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Full view
About
No visit to Kauai is complete without an adventure on Na Pali Coast! Blue Dolphin Charters is proud to run the two largest motor sailing catamarans on Kauai specializing in tours of Na Pali Coast and the forbidden island of Niihau. Whether you are here for a family vacation, honeymoon or looking for a new adventure, Blue Dolphin Charters will make your trip to Kauai a memorable experience for years to come!
Eleele, Hawaii
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,695 reviews
Excellent
3,100
Very good
310
Average
114
Poor
78
Terrible
93
BradleyPSmith1
Cleveland, OH78 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
We were fortunate to join the sunset whale watching cruise on January 24th from Port Allen. Everything was perfect. The weather was great, the water calm, the crew accommodating and informative. Best of all we saw the whales. From smaller males, one white in color, to larger females. They were in the mood to perform, and they did not disappoint. Our captain reported that this was one of the most active cruises he had seen in weeks. The whales breeched at least eight times, multiple tail waves and lots of spouting off. It was a beautiful sunset that evening and the champagne, mai tais, wine and great hors d’louvres certainly added to the quality of the evening. If you are in Kauai and want to see the whales, be sure to check into Blue Dolphin Charters and ask for captain Joe and his crew including Ruby. Aloha.
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Whale-watching really is an amazing time here on Kauai’s south shore. We are ecstatic that you were able to enjoy the company of so many humpback whales while sailing with Captain Joe and crew. Mahalo for your review!
Written January 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paradise556284
8 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
We did the deluxe morning Napali snorkel tour. Our crew was awesome! Chad was funny and he and his crew did a great job explaining the coast and also pointing out when they’d see dolphins and turtles. We saw probably over 30 dolphins swimming around the boat which was so cool! Snorkeling, we saw several turtles and lots of colorful fish. This whole boat trip was an awesome experience and I highly recommend booking a NaPali coast tour! If you only book 1 activity, this is it! It was windy the day we went, so it was a little rough; however, only one person got sick. The catamaran was big enough to handle to waves. Hands down our favorite activity we booked!
Written August 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Linda N
Roseville, CA31 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
We went on a 2 hour whale watch leaving at 2pm and a sunset sail. We got Capt Chad both times, he was amazing. He was talking to other boats and looking for whales for us the entire time. He would get the boat in a great position for photos. The first trip we saw tons of whales, even a mother and baby.
The second trip it was very windy and wavy but we did see a rainbow with a whale spouting at the end of it. Not as many whales were out the second trip but Cal Chad got found us as many as he could. It was a beautiful sunset trip, even with the wind. We had cookies, chicken wings and Mai tais. Everyone in the crew was awesome.
The second trip it was very windy and wavy but we did see a rainbow with a whale spouting at the end of it. Not as many whales were out the second trip but Cal Chad got found us as many as he could. It was a beautiful sunset trip, even with the wind. We had cookies, chicken wings and Mai tais. Everyone in the crew was awesome.
Written March 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for joining us and for sharing a review of your experience! It was a pleasure to read how much you enjoyed your tour with Captain Chad and crew. Aloha and mahalo!
Written March 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
fablien
Canada21 contributions
Dec 2019
The cruise itself was pretty great, we caught a gorgeous sunset, didn't get the chance to see some whales but we managed to see some dolphins, which was pretty cool!
But what made this cruise unforgettable was the crew members aboard our sunset cruise, Kai and Cory (hope I spelled it correctly) were excellent in their attention to detail. I was cruising with my girlfriend and her sister and they made sure our drinks were always full, even with the boat rocking around, taking great photos of everyone, and overall a pleasure to be around due to great conversations.
It wouldn't have been the same without those two, so a huge thank you to them!
But what made this cruise unforgettable was the crew members aboard our sunset cruise, Kai and Cory (hope I spelled it correctly) were excellent in their attention to detail. I was cruising with my girlfriend and her sister and they made sure our drinks were always full, even with the boat rocking around, taking great photos of everyone, and overall a pleasure to be around due to great conversations.
It wouldn't have been the same without those two, so a huge thank you to them!
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are thrilled you chose us for your Nā Pali Coast experience. Thank you so much for writing your review of your time with Kai and Cori! We are more than happy to read your kind words. Mahalo and aloha
Written January 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jackie K
Guelph, Canada7 contributions
Feb 2020
Trip was Feb 2020 - ie, winter, so weather for boat tours can be unpredictable. We initially had a tour planned with Captain Andy's, but they were not able to go up north to the Napali coast (they were offering a tour to the south coast that day instead) so we cancelled. The only option for the following day (our only free day left on the vacation) was with Blue Dolphin Charters. We could not be more pleased that we went with them instead. On the day of our tour, all other companies 'turned back' from heading to the Napali coast (due to wind/wave conditions) but captain Chad + the crew on Blue Dolphin charters were persistent and we were able to make it. It was rough (definitely had to hang on!), with swell and getting wet at times depending. If you have physical limitations (or don't love being out in rough weather), keep this in mind that it might not be the best for you, but if you are adventurous and want the best chance of making it to Napali - this is the tour company to go with.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for joining us and for sharing a review of your experience on the Na Pali coast! It was a pleasure to read how much you enjoyed your tour with Captain Chad and crew. Aloha and mahalo!
Written March 4, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ReachtheBeachKC
Kansas City, MO181 contributions
Feb 2020
we wanted a tour that woudnt take up a full day and they had a 2 hour sunset tour for whales. We saw bottle nosed dolpins, a bunch of spinner dolphins and saw lots of spouts and tails. Also got to see one breach! They had drinks including beer and wine plus snacks included in the price. Pretty much as much as you wanted
Written February 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Whale-watching really is an amazing time here on Kauai’s south shore. We are ecstatic that you were able to enjoy the company of so many humpback whales and dolphins while sailing with us. Mahalo for your review!
Written February 12, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KauaiVacationTours_K
Kalaheo, HI73 contributions
Mar 2020
What an incredible experience! Not only did we see several pods of whales & almost constant whale action but they were extremely playful and active almost the full 2 hour tour. Capt. Joe was full of information and humor making the time on board especially fun for everyone. Mahalo nui loa to the crew keeping us safe & well fed with delicious snacks & beverages. If you are here on island or coming soon don't miss this tour the whales are incredible!
Written March 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nothing pleases us more than reading about our guests enjoying their time on the water with us. Mahalo nui loa for taking the time to review your experience with Captain Joe and crew. We hope you will once again join us in the future!
Written March 9, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jackie F
49 contributions
Aug 2021 • Couples
We have taken several chartered boat tours up the Na Pali Coast over the years. This year, we traveled aboard Blue Dolphin with Captain Nate at the helm. It was hands down our favorite trip! Captain Nate and his crew (Matt and Jackson) were very attentive to all on the boat. We got up close and personal with the cliffs of Na Pali and heard about the rich history, stories not told on other boats. We saw so many dolphins - an incredible site! Lots of great photos ops including an incredible sunset, the Na Pali Coast is always stunning. Dinner was good - and the ride back to port with Captain Nate’s playlist led to half the boat singing and dancing. Our boat came into port having a great time! My only regret is that I am not taking the trip again today with that same crew and group of passenger.
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emily H
3 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
We joined a group of about 30 people in this catamaran tour of the Napali coast and morning snorkeling. At first I was worried we would be too crowded but after we took off people moved to different parts of the boat and we often had space all to ourselves at the front of the boat or along the side filming the cliffs. Everyone had a seat on top to go
Back to with great views all around. We were lucky to have clear enough water to snorkel
And followed a turtle around the reef for a bit. The crew was truly Amazing!! They brought us juices then after snorkeling a pastry and fresh fruit then sodas and lunch sandwiches and finally Offered beer and MaiTais. All while
Moving comfortably around the moving boats with big waves and winds with smiles
And frequent stories and conversation. I think this is the only
Boat running at this tome and they did a fantastic job of managing a group with masks and space. The best part of the day was the two times we caught up with a huge pod of nearly 150 plus spinner dolphins who live at the south end of Na Pali. We saw babies and watched 15-20 dolphins frolic along our bow as we sailed along. So beautiful And comforting that there is a safe and healthy place for ocean wildlife.
Back to with great views all around. We were lucky to have clear enough water to snorkel
And followed a turtle around the reef for a bit. The crew was truly Amazing!! They brought us juices then after snorkeling a pastry and fresh fruit then sodas and lunch sandwiches and finally Offered beer and MaiTais. All while
Moving comfortably around the moving boats with big waves and winds with smiles
And frequent stories and conversation. I think this is the only
Boat running at this tome and they did a fantastic job of managing a group with masks and space. The best part of the day was the two times we caught up with a huge pod of nearly 150 plus spinner dolphins who live at the south end of Na Pali. We saw babies and watched 15-20 dolphins frolic along our bow as we sailed along. So beautiful And comforting that there is a safe and healthy place for ocean wildlife.
Written April 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AndHomeAgain
Half Moon Bay, CA21 contributions
Mar 2023
My family booked the Ni'ihau and Na Pali Coast Snorkel tour for Friday, March 3, the first day of our week in Hawaii. We got a call the night before that the tour would be canceled because of strong winds and high swells between Kauai'i and Ni'ihau. We were given the option to take the shorter Deluxe Na Pali Snorkel Tour. I'm so glad we did! Captain Joe got everything going with positive energy, but still made sure we all understood the safety drill. Before the boat even left the dock there was a sea turtle hanging out, watching us. Then we pulled out of the harbor. Soon, more sea turtles, then a pod of dolphins swimming all around us, even between the hulls in the front! We stopped to snorkel and saw more sea turtles and so many beautiful tropical fish.
The crew was always friendly, organized and safety-conscious. JR especially strolled around the boat as if walking down a sidewalk, making sure everyone was having a good time and had everything they needed. Rob and Collin were busy managing food and gear.
Seeing the Na Pali coast from a boat is spectacular! On the way back we saw multiple pods of whales.
I felt like Kauai'i herself was welcoming me! Thank you to all the staff at Blue Dolphin Charters!
The crew was always friendly, organized and safety-conscious. JR especially strolled around the boat as if walking down a sidewalk, making sure everyone was having a good time and had everything they needed. Rob and Collin were busy managing food and gear.
Seeing the Na Pali coast from a boat is spectacular! On the way back we saw multiple pods of whales.
I felt like Kauai'i herself was welcoming me! Thank you to all the staff at Blue Dolphin Charters!
Written March 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo nui loa for taking the time to write those kind words! It is unfortunate that the weather on the day of your tour did not allow us to cross the channel to Ni'ihau; however, we were delighted to read that you decided to join us for the Deluxe NaPali Coast Snorkel Tour. Our crew is dedicated to making sure each trip is safe, fun, and comfortable for all on board, and strives to provide "Above and Beyond" customer service, so we were thrilled to read that you experienced just that with Captain Joe, Rob, JR, and Collin. We couldn't be happier to read how much you enjoyed snorkeling with us, as well as the beautiful scenery of the NaPali Coast, and your encounters with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, Spinner Dolphins, and Humpback Whales! It was a pleasure to have had you as our guest, and we hope that you will join us once again in the future so that we can show you what was missed at Ni'ihau. Mahalo and aloha from all of us here at Blue Dolphin Charters.
Written March 15, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is this allowed? Why do this on a snorkeling tour? That diver should be in big trouble.
Written September 6, 2024
For anyone who paid by credit card (ideally Chase), do you recall if this coded as Travel or Entertainment on your bill? Trying to determine which card will get me more points for booking our excursion. Thank you!
Written March 28, 2023
We booked through our resort concierge. So, can’t help there.
Written March 29, 2023
We have a granddaughter who will turn 2 just two weeks after our visit. Would she be allowed on your whale watching tour if she is so close to two years.
Written February 18, 2020
What time do you get back to Port Allen after doing the Napali Coast Rafting and Snorkeling tour? Is this doable if our ship leaves Nawiliwili harbor at 2:00 pm? Thanks.
Written August 2, 2019
Blue Dolphin Charters
Eleele, Hawaii
Aloha! Our Raft Adventure tour has a check in time currently of 7:30 AM and returns to harbor around 1:00 - 1:15 PM. It takes around 30 minutes (depending on traffic) to get from our office to Nawiliwili Harbor. It might be cutting it a little close to try to make it back in time. We hope this helps. Mahalo!
Written August 2, 2019
Blue Dolphin Charters
Eleele, Hawaii
Aloha Nola! We offer a seasonal South Shore Sunset and Whale Watch tour during the months of December through March. We do offer our 4 hour Nā Pali Sunset Dinner Cruise year round.
Written May 15, 2019
Hi, we are visiting Kauai June 1-11 and would love to take your Napali snorkel cruise. We have a son with Downs Syndrome who is a good swimmer and can snorkel well. Does your craft stop at Nu Alolo Kai for snorkeling? I remember it as the place to go years ago.
Written May 11, 2019
Blue Dolphin Charters
Eleele, Hawaii
Aloha! All of our snorkel tours are subject to all sea and weather conditions. Nualolo Kai is a beautiful and popular spot for snorkeling, but because conditions can change rapidly on the ocean, we cannot always predict specific snorkel locations. Our captains have specific spots they can choose from, and we are confident that the decisions the Captains make are based on the safety and comfort of all on board. We hope to have you join us in June. Mahalo!
Written May 15, 2019
How many people are usually on your morning snorkel tours?
Written May 4, 2019
Blue Dolphin Charters
Eleele, Hawaii
Aloha! Our max capacity for our Snorkel Tour and our Sunset Dinner Cruise aboard our 65' power sailing catamaran is 49 passengers. Our max capacity for our Raft Snorkel Adventure is 14 passengers. Mahalo!
Written May 15, 2019
We will be in Kauai in early February of 2019. Wanting to do a Np Pali boat tour. For those of you that have been here at this time of year, is the water rough? Any more so at this time of year? Have read some reviews that talk of very rough sea and many people on board being very seasick.
Written November 26, 2018
We are here in December, while I did not feel it was that rough, we did have two people sea sick. From what I hear, the water on the Na Pali coast is pretty consistent year around
Written December 28, 2018
I went to your site and noted the prices. When I called your receptionist, she quoted the price as $135 which is not what the site says. I also told her I had the coupon for $20 per couple. She said the rack rate was $135, but they had not gotten around to fixing it on the site. She said she would not honor the price actually on the site. She also said twice "no one else is grumbling about it" and the owners had just not gotten around to it. I simply asked for the actual online price to be honored. It is unfortunate not to honor the online price, but there is no reason to insult a customer. I went to Kauai Sea Tours willing to pay more and given respect. They ended up treating me very well and decreased the price to $117 for all 6 of us. It looks like you have a good reputation, but please fix both issues for others to maintain that. Thanks
Written July 17, 2018
Also, sometimes the price is less if you book and pay through the website. we have done 2 cruises through Blue Dolphin and the boat crew is great.
Written July 18, 2018
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