Blue dolphin charters was AMAZING. The morning snorkel cruise was the most fun I have had in a long time. It was absolutely stunning. The crew was so unbelievable. I couldn't believe how kind, attentive, funny, friendly and helpful they were. Captain J-Sea, Zeke, Pa'a, and Keilani were the best ever. The food and open bar were wonderful too! This was really the most amazing experience. I could not recommend it enough and all 4 of these staff members deserve all the recognition for how phenomenal they are!! read more

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Captain J and his crew were a 10/10. Extremely friendly, professional, and funny. We saw so many dolphins it was life changing !!

Yes, every tour company in Kaua'i will show you the same jaw-dropping coastline, the same sea caves, dolphins, and sunsets -- but none will do it like Blue Dolphin. What truly sets them apart is the crew. These people aren't just doing a job -- they live for this. You can feel it the second you step on board. They're fun, funny, wildly enthusiastic, and somehow manage to make everyone feel like an old friend while still running a totally professional, seamless operation. You can tell they genuinely love what they do and take pride in making sure every single person on that boat has an unforgettable time. The customer service is next-level -- think luxury hospitality meets ocean adventure. You'll leave sun-soaked, smiling, and convinced you just spent the day with the happiest people in Hawaii. If you're choosing between companies, stop. Go with Blue Dolphin. You'll thank yourself later. read more

Perfect sunset whale watch with Captain Cole and fabulous crew. We've loved every adventure with Blue Dolphin, and we'll be back for more! Mahalo! read more

Not so much a review of this business as much as a warning to people that are considering doing this excursion. First off, if you don't like roller coasters or get nauseous when riding on a fast moving bus, don't book this cruise. Next, if you think it is a good idea to bring your toddler, it's not. They will never remember anything other than vomiting, crying, and terror. And that is what the other guests will remember about your kids. You are not allowed to pick up your kids and hold them in an attempt to calm them because one big wave (and there are many) and junior goes flying overboard. But if you are actually trying to get ride of your kid, by all means, bring them onboard. Also, keep in mind, if you are unlucky enough to be on a boat with guests who don't heed the warnings then you too have a chance to be on an outing otherwise known as Vomit Fest 2026. And what is the end result of a cruise when people don't heed the warnings? The boat turns back early and you never get to see the Na Pali coast. So for the 2 of us it was $400 to watch people vomit for 4 hours. Again, not an indictment of Blue Dolphin, but a note to all considering taking one of these boats. read more

Horrible. No joking half the people on board were vomiting the food was horrible the ride was way too difficult very long no real discussion of what we're saying just get there as fast as possible get back hand out the barf bags it was really awful read more

Me and my boyfriend had Ruby and Lily as our boat driver and tour guide, and they were absolutely incredible! Super immersive, full of fascinating facts, and they made sure we felt completely safe--even on a gnarly ride. We definitely want them again. They were everything and more! This was truly the trip of a lifetime. If you're not booking a tour with this company, what are you even doing? Pro tip: go for the RA tour--preferably with Ruby and Lily. read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

Incredible trip! The staff are superb! Thank you Kaloha, Jason and Collin! So much fun and beautiful. Blue Dolphin is the best. I wouldn't take any other tour boat. Their boats are super clean and run with the utmost pride. We did the dinner sunset cruise. The food was surprisingly very good and there is plenty of it since half the boat is either sea sick or on the verge of being sick. It is not a smooth ride and it is over four hours. Be prepared and take your motion sickness pills as prescribed. If you're prone to motion sickness, be vigilant. If you don't get sea sick, you will love it. They have an open bar and non-alcoholic drinks available. The staff really know their stuff and tell great stories about the area and make sure you are getting the full experience and best phot opportunities. read more

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Had a great experience on their catamaran trip with snorkeling! Captain Joe and his crew were phenomenal. Snorkeling depends on the weather and water, and thankfully we had a great day so we could enjoy that. The crew was good about showing us little picturesque spots along the coast, they served two meals, and drinks throughout the trip. Very prepared, safe, and fun for all! read more

Blue Dolphin staff checked in and ticketed 16 people from three different parties. Told us all the wrong time to come back to meet our guide and board and our boat left without all of us. We made up nearly 1/3 of the boat?! Very unapologetic staff who tried to blame us for missing the boat rather than acknowledge their mistake. Total bummer. We ended up getting a refund and were offered free beverages and shirts but no whales for us. read more

There are no bad excursions in Hawaii and especially cruises. Got to expect weather to play a factor and role with it. In our case snorkeling was right after we set sail versus further up the coast due to weather. So sadly no breakfast till after snorkeling, a slight challenge as we got up early expecting breakfast before getting into the water, snorkeling on an empty stomach.... The winds were howling making for an adventure to Napali but still fun! Jaycee was great looping multiple times at our dolphin and whale sightings making for most enjoyable cruise, would sail again with this crew and Blue Dolphin! read more

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A beautiful sunset cruise and a great crew! The Napoli coast beach that goes on forever and the waterfalls are just stunning. Along with a delicious dinner and a wonderful dolphin pod sighting, this cruise was by far our excursion on Kuai. read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

We saw dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and the Nā Pali Coast in all its unreal beauty. Even after rain and during winter conditions, the crew knew exactly where to take us to find a safe, calm spot for snorkeling. That alone says everything about their experience and care. The vibes were relaxed but professional. Music was spot on. Empathy was on board for those who get seasick. Staff was totally attentive. We felt safe the entire time, well taken care of, and genuinely welcomed. Great energy, great service, and a crew that clearly loves what they do. If you want ocean magic and peace of mind, this is the charter. Would 100% book again. read more

We did the NaPali Coast Sunset Dinner cruise and had a wonderful experience! Captain Elia and crew were very professional, knowledgable and fun. Captain Elia did a great job sharing fun facts and highlighting everything there was to see along the way, from Barking Sands to each of the different valleys along the NaPali coast. Even though we had a bit of rain during part of our sail, it wasn't too bad and all part of the experience of being on Kauai. Our boat had seating on the upper deck along with some exterior seating on the lower deck as well as interior seating down below. Later in the cruise as we sailed back down the coast, it got especially rough and choppy with tons of splashing in the front, and guests were asked to move inside or to the top deck where it was safer. The views were the reason we were there and they didn't disappoint! You get up close and personal with the NaPali coast and it's absolutely breathtaking. This cruise did not include a snorkel element, but we did manage to see a turtle, two pods of spinner dolphins and a young humpback whale which was incredibly exciting since this was early November and not yet officially whale season! The food was fine but honestly nothing too special. They market it as a luau style menu, and I guess that's what it is, but it's not as fancy or exciting as what some of the other upscale sailing companies might offer. The cookies for dessert were disappointing. That being said, this cruise was less expensive than the one that boasts the fancy food, so if you are truly here for the views and experience and not for a gourmet meal, you can save a little money and enjoy what Blue Dolphin has to offer (which is otherwise great!). Finally, the sunset itself was stunning. That was the other reason for selecting this tour as opposed to others earlier in the day. We got the golden hour views of NaPali as well as the perfect sunset to finish our day. All in all, I highly recommend sailing with Blue Dolphin Charters and would happily book with them again in the future. read more

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Smooth process for purchasing and checking in. Communication was great. Our crew, Captain Ruby and Jordan were fun to be around and knowledgable. We did the raft tour of Na Pali coast and it was the best day of our vacation. We saw tons of dolphins, whales breaching, went into sea caves, and snorkeled with a sea turtle. If you like adventure, do the raft! If you like scenery and a cocktail, do the catamaran. read more

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We celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary today with an amazing number of humpback whale sitings and a boatload of very cooperative dolphins right out in front of the boat where Kai said they would be. Captain Kai was very knowledgeable and funny, and he made the experience a once-in-a lifetime one for me and my wife. Both D.J. and Kawica were available and very friendly, and they made sure everyone was having a terrific time. We have already recommended Blue Dolphin to a random couple we ran into on the street in Kapa`a. We can hardly wait to book another trip with this excellent crew. Scott and Mary Spearman. (January 24th, 2026) read more

TOP NOTCH CREW- Captain Kai, Ruby,& Jaycee (sorry for any incorrect spelling) were fantastic hosts. Good humor, friendly, excellent service for drinks and snacks. The trip was successful and we had a great time whale watching (and whale waiting). Been on many cruises and highly recommend this one because of the awesome staff! read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - View of Kauai from the boat - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

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Great little half day tour. Food and drinks were great. The crew was super friendly. It is a lot of cruising around, you spend maybe 1.5-2hrs total relaxing and not en-route. But well worth it, we had a great time read more

Such a fun way to end our trip in Kauai. The concierge at our hotel helped us book the sunset cruise through Blue Dolphin Charters and my husband had the BEST time! They took us around the coast of Kauai with a fairly large group of people and give you a history of everything. It was also amazing to see the beautiful views of the island. Our tour was at half capacity and it still felt like A LOT of people! I'm surprised they can fit up to 40 people on the boat. A tip: when you check in for the cruise, do yourself a favor and take the nausea medication even if you feel like you don't need it. I have been on small sailboats, speed boats, cruises etc without getting motion sickness that were pretty bumpy but found I got a little nauseous on this cruise. Fortunately I didn't get sick but other people on our cruise did. It was a great time and the crew were so helpful. It's amazing how balanced they are walking on a boat and serving drinks at the same time. Props to them! I believe the crew was Captain Nathan, Jojo and DJ. They were awesome. 10/10 would do it again! Book a cruise with them, you won't regret it! read more

5.5 hr Snorkeling Cruise along the Na Pali Coast This was my first time in Kauai and the gf and I were stoked for 5.5 hrs on a catamaran off the Na Pali Coast. It was her birthday so we wanted something special. We set out of Port Allen on a 60ft catamaran and it was a rare winter day for Kauai - light winds and small swell. We love boats!! Just for your info - Blue Dolphin is your typical tourist charter. We were amongst 42 other tourists - some experienced on boats and some not...should I say more? TMI Anyway I really was looking forward to the snorkeling but just know we were only in the water for 45min at best. We were patrolled with an eagle eye bc yes some are dumb tourists that think they can swim in open ocean and well they can't. So they were strict. I'm like a dolphin myself so I can stay out, deep, and long in the water. After we motored toward the Na Pali coast after having a nice breakfast of cinnamon rolls, fruit, and coffee which was nice after a good snorkel. I will say that the snorkel was subpar bc we were limited to a small piece of reef that was 15-20ft deep and had very little marine life. The only thing that made it was the fact that we saw several turtles and I did get a shot of one. The Na Pali coast on the day we had was glorious. Sunny, bright, with not a lot of swell. We got great shots of the coast and had a couple of encounters with spinner dolphins which followed our boat. We got in close to the coast and one of the lava tubes and the captain was very informative about the history and heritage of his island. They served lunch which we ordered pulled pork sandwiches and some slaw which was ok but the bar was a nice add on. They had Mai Tai's and beer and it was an open bar so we tried to get out moneys worth. I will warn anyone who wants to go in these charters to check with the company and figure out the conditions of the day bc they will change. The swell in Kauai in the winter is crazy big and for some people being on a boat in high seas is not a pleasurable cruise so rider beware. You will get sick bc of motion sickness. We have to take away a star bc after informing all of the crew and not relaying to the captain that it was her birthday (that day!) they still did not make an announcement and it's the reason we booked that specific day. Besides that the crew was amiable and the cruise was nice. read more

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Best snorkel and sail tour we've ever done! Captain J-Sea and her crew are the best. Great work on navigation in windy weather, snorkeling support, and customer service all around. read more

The captain and the crew were great -- very communicative, and did a good job keeping us safe in some very rough water that left some passengers soaking wet and others vomiting. But there's no escaping the fundamental disappointment that we went on a whale-watching cruise, and a quite nauseating one at that, and didn't see any whales. read more

We booked a whale watching tour for a party of 10, several months ago. We arrived an hour early and all checked in. We were told to come back in one hour to board our boat. We grabbed a bite to eat next door and returned to the meeting spot within 45 minutes. Upon arrival, we were informed that our boat had already departed. The tour had left without our party of 10 and 5 other paying customers. After an hour of arguing with the manager we were offered a refund and some sodas. This was a much anticipated highlight of our trip and landed on the final day of vacation. We spent our final day on Kauai driving to/from the Blue Dolphin office (2 hours), waiting, and arguing with management. Such a disappointing way to end our trip. read more

In June 2025 my friend and I took a morning snorkel cruise to the Na'Pali coast aboard the Blue Dolphin II. Our crew was headed by Captain Evan, with Jarrett, Madison and another crew member (but I can't remember his name). They were kind, friendly and attentive. We were served juice & coffee, cinnamon rolls and fruit on the way out, while we watched flying fish skim along the surface of the water. Once we got near our snorkel spot, we encountered a huge pod of spinner dolphins who lead the way and swam alongside us, jumping and twirling to the delight of the onlookers. We dropped anchor at our swim spot, and snorkeled with colorful fish and a couple of turtles. The only difficulty was that the sun wasn't high in the sky on this morning cruise, so we were in the shadow of the mountain, which did reduce the visibility and vibrancy of the fish and coral beneath us. Some people were dropping pretzels in the water, which attracted hundreds of fish! We snorkeled for an hour and then continued along the Na'Pali coast, had a yummy lunch served by the crew, and then headed back. It was about a five hour experience and worth every penny. Such a fun day. My recommendations: If you are even a LITTLE BIT prone to motion sickness bring and take Dramamine. I did and am very glad that seasickness did not ruin my experience. Bring a towel. They are not provided and you will get wet on the boat ride! (And when snorkeling, of course) it also helps to clean your fingers during lunch! Layer on that sunscreen, and don't forget to reapply. The sun is intense in Hawaii. Bring a waterproof camera or a phone pouch. The views are stunning, but the waves and spray will ruin your phone. Last recommendation: TAKE THIS TRIP! read more

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Captain Joe and his crew were the best-- kind and caring! What a trip of a lifetime for our Utah/Idaho family!

This was by far one of the best experiences across the islands. 5+ hours on a high speed raft is not for everyone, but if you're fit, you MUST try this adventure. If you're lucky, you'll get an awesome captain like we did. Captain Kai made it all worth while, his crew Jordan, above and beyond with taking care of the 12 of us on board. They brought 4 groups of strangers together as we chatted the water from the port up the Na Pali coasts. We stopped for dolphins a few times, that was fun. Snorkeling was ok, the best was the sea caves and the fast boating on open waters. The entire time, we felt so safe and secure. Of course, following directions and holding the ropes helps! Seriously - worth every penny. Lunch was good too. read more

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Absolutely loved this excursion--the crew, the food, the drinks, the entire experience! The views were breathtaking. Crew was courteous, interactive, attentive and looked like they were all having fun. They were patient with all passengers and did so with the utmost care for our safety and enjoyment. Safety was a top priority and the crew told and reminded passengers in a serious but fun way. We highly recommend the Morning Na'pali Coast with snorkeling excursion through Blue Dolphin Charter! read more

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Our group of 10 missed our scheduled whale watching tour due to clear miscommunication and poor boarding procedures by Blue Dolphin Charters. We got there early and checked in at 12:30 PM - were told by the front desk to return and meet out front at 1:30 PM. We were given tickets and were fully checked in so we walked around the shops by the tour. Based on those instructions, we returned at 1:20 PM to use the restroom and wait nearby. At 1:35 PM, we were informed by another whale watching group that the boat had already left. We were then told the correct meeting time was supposedly 1:15 PM, directly contradicting what we were told at check-in. In total, three different groups (16 people) missed the boat. It is unacceptable that a boat would depart without performing a headcount or attempting to locate that many guests who had already checked in, especially when so many were missing from the boat and still on-site. We were right there. A simple verification process would have prevented this. The manager was professional and did what she could under the circumstances by issuing a refund and offering complimentary drinks, which we appreciated. She tried to get us on another boat but with our group size all boats were full, and with our group size and departure the next day, rebooking was not an option. This situation was entirely avoidable and reflects poorly on Blue Dolphin Charters' communication and boarding procedures. If you book here, do not rely on verbal instructions and stay physically in line at all times - even AFTER checking in - or you risk being left behind. read more

Captain Joe and his crew did an amazing job taking care of us. Even though it's the start of the winter season and the swells were high, we got to see more of the Na'pali coast than I did on another trip a few years ago with a different company. We were rocking in every direction and felt safe under the capable hands of Captain Joe. If you think you might get sea sick, take the less drowsy Dramamine and keep your eyes on the land. Aloha! read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - Na'Pali Coast - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

Besides my husband getting a little sea sick feeling, we charted out with some choppy waters but Capitan Kahola and the crew made sure we got to see what everyone paid to see! Everyone was so fun and smiles all around. read more

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You HAVE TO take the Blue Dolphin Charters and snorkeling. Ask specifically for Captain Ruby and assisted by Kāwika (David). Capt. Ruby was amazing navigating and actually BACKING into sea caves and navigating this vessel in open ocean. She is EXTREMELY knowledgeable about Hawaiian history and culture. Her Assistant, Kāwika was very warm and welcoming, I mean he was funny as hell, very helpful and a great person! Someone I'd like to hangout with My wife and I will NEVER forget this trip. It was physically exhausting just getting to and from the NaPali coast, but worth every second. REMEMBER! Ask for Captain Ruby and Kāwika. I told them both thank you, but I want everyone to see how appreciative I was of this experience. You won't regret it!! read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - NaPali coastline! - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

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What better way This tour was a great culmination to our vacation in Hawaii on the last day before flying out. The views and the experience were fantastic! It started off by a leisurely tour around the southwest corner of the island then up along the beautiful coast until they found a calmer spot where they set the anchor and allowed all of us off for a swim or snorkeling. The swim was beautiful in the water with a perfect temperature. A convenient seat was laid out in the water behind the boat where people could just rest and enjoy their legs in the water, a slide into the water and even a place to jump and dive off the ship. Snorkeling gear and noodles were also provided. It was pretty idyllic... The scenery of the Napali was awesome and the photo opportunities were great, whether with backdrops of the beautiful coastline, the sunset, or just the open area - or really all of the above. Food and Mai-tais were provided on the way back before enjoying the sunset, just before returning to port The crew was very friendly and helpful, Nicole reached out to us many times and helped in many ways - thank you Nicole! end a week in read more

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My family went on the Napali Coast Raft Adventure on 10/22/2025. Ruby and Lilli were amazing! The waters were a little rough that day and Ruby handled everything like the true pro she is. They are a great team and provide an exemplary experience. read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

Everything about this cruise was top-tier. We went on a Nepali coast snorkel cruise, and we had the best time. The crew were so friendly, the captain was so knowledgeable and full of interesting and fascinating facts about the island. We saw so many beautiful fish, turtles, seals, and more. The food was excellent, and the cocktails were really yummy as well. This cruise makes me want to leave my life back home, and move to this gorgeous garden island. Shout out to Vayden on the crew for sharing all the aloha! read more

First time seeing the Na Pali coast from the water! We also were lucky and had spinner dolphins by us. Really great crew, everyone was so friendly and super attentive. Thank you for making it so much fun JC, Ruby and Nicole. read more

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Don't forget to show your Yelp app for your free T-shirt. I have nothing but great memories from this trip. The trip to see the Napoli coast was spacious and well attended by the staff. Along the route, they stopped for photo ops and also on the way back for sunset. They had unlimited drinks, a decent meal and dessert that complimented the afternoon trip perfectly. The trip length is well timed we checked in at 2:30 PM and we're back by 8:30 PM. Clean, not overly priced like the competitors on the same area and super attentive to everyone on board. read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii

Such an incredible experience! The crew -- J Sea, Chasen, Cole, and Dylan -- were outstanding. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready to help with anything: from grabbing drinks, snapping photos, steadying a hand during rough seas, to sharing endless stories. Couldn't recommend this charter more... unless you're prone to seasickness. read more

We have went on close to 10 tours with Blue Dolphin. Never had a bad time, never been disappointed. Captain Evan is a baddie; we've had him for whale watching fun and Na'Pali fun. Crew is always kind and down to talk story. We live here and always take visitors on a Blue Dolphin cruise. You won't be disappointed. Plus the coconut cookies at the end of dinner are bomb! read more

1) Saw 5 whales including a mother and baby 2) Saw a group of 50+ dolphins 3) Tasteful music 4) Food was actually good 5) easy going, professional, very nice and funny crew 6) Snorkeling 7) Sea turtles getting it on 8) waterfall shower This tour was everything. Now, If they added massages and pedicures, I wouldn't know what to do. read more

The snorkeling was amazing, the coast tour was perfect, and we even saw dolphins and whales!! Best part of our whole trip :) Captain Joe, Ryder, DJ, and Lilly were awesome! read more

Blue Dolphin Charters - Boating Near Me - Eleele, Hawaii