Private Ni`ihau Island Snorkel Tours

Ni’ihau Snorkeling Boat Tour and Lehua Crater

Enjoy an epic day on the ocean traveling across the Kaulakahi channel to the mysterious, privately owned Island of Ni`ihau and adjacent Lehua Crater. 

Often  referred to as “The Forbidden Island”, Ni`ihau lies 18 miles to the west of Kaua’i and has a very small population.  The island is restricted to only those of Native Hawaiian descent.  Ni`ihau has its own dialect of the Hawaiian language and its own unique history and culture.  It is known for its rare Ni`ihau Shell Lei which are hand picked and crafted by the talented artisans of the Island.

Our powerful and comfortable Super Raft is able to bring us across the channel in an exhilarating 45 minutes.  Enjoy unobstructed views as we journey across the Kaulakahi channel to Ni`ihau and the wind-worn walls of Lehua Crater (a dormant volcanic cinder cone).  

There is no limit to what we might see in the channel waters between Kauai and Ni’ihau.  Our journey across the ocean may feature Pilot and Humpback Whales (seasonally) as well as native sea birds, Spotted Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, Hawaiian Sea Turtles, Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and Hawaiian Monk Seals.   We might even come across a Whale Shark.

Once there, we enjoy the most untouched snorkeling areas of clear blue water.  While snorkeling you may encounter marine life including Hawaiian Monk Seals, Dolphins, Spotted Eagle Rays and an endless variety of colorful reef fish.  As you take in breathtaking views and world-class photo opportunities, your friendly captain and crew will fill you in on the rich history of the area. 

Read about the comforts and performance of our Luxury Super Raft here.

What to Bring

All guests are provided with a 10-Liter dry bag which has ample space for a towel, photography equipment, mobile phones, sunscreen, and other small equipment or necessary medications.  Snacks and beverages are provided.  Guests should travel light and only pack what will be needed on board.

What You Need to Know

This is a private charter for up to 28 guests.

Please contact us directly for rates and availability at (808) 651-4502.

Snorkeling:

This is a snorkeling-focused tour and guests should be comfortable in the ocean and familiar with snorkeling equipment.   Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted on board our vessel due to safety.  Full-face snorkel masks can prevent the user from communicating with the captain and crew. 

Weather:

Each of our tours is dependent on the weather in terms of what we can and cannot do.  All tours, destinations, and snorkeling are dependent on weather conditions and at the captain’s discretion for safety.

If you are pregnant, have recently had surgery, or have back or neck injuries/issues, this is NOT the trip for you.  Children 7 and up are welcome.  All passengers must be able to walk onto the vessel unassisted.    Please visit our FAQ section for more information. If you have questions about accessibility, please call us at (808) 651-4502.

Ni`ihau & Lehua Crater Snorkel Tours

*10% Early Booking Courtesy

*10% Military Courtesy

*Local Kama`aina

Call to Book (808) 651-4502