Whether you are a visitor or kama'aina, this is an experience that will expand your mind and give you a new perspective on the beauty of Hawai'i. If you have the opportunity to you venture out on the seas with Captain Rob and his fantastic crew, you must take it. The combination of beautiful views, bittersweet history, and profound ho'okipa was a privilege that I will reflect on for the rest of my years. read more

Wow! Let me start by saying this is an interactive, educational cruise. You will learn about many aspects of Hawaiian culture and the history of Oahu. They will also teach you how to smash your own poi, hula dance, and play traditional Hawaiian instruments. Rest assured, there are also moments to relax in the hammock, listen to the ukelele, and take pictures! No smoking or alcohol on board. The crew is extremely knowledgeable and kind. They will go in-depth on many aspects of Hawaiian culture. I wish I could take a class on each of the subjects they talk about! They even sang a special song for my girlfriend in celebration of her birthday. Very thoughtful. This cruise is well worth the price, and I would recommend and go again! If you are looking for a good mix of education and relaxation, this is the right cruise! read more

See all

I have done sunset sail after sunset sail and if there's anything I've learned about me, is that party boats suck. People don't really talk to each other until they get drunk and that's when they're obnoxious. Then the influencers take their pictures and hog the view wearing their ridiculous outfits that no one would wear on a boat while the rest of us have to wait. The music is loud so you can't talk and it's just not my scene. The best boats are the ones where they want to give you authentic experiences. The Kamoauli is that type of experience. Greeted by Captain Rob, the first mate, his historian, and his enchanting vocalist, we got a lesson in Hawaiian history as we sailed out towards Diamond Head. He wanted us to learn some Hawaiian, which I wasn't expecting. Then it got even better. Our vocalist did chants that lulled us into the Hawaiian vibe, then we got to make poi and ate that with the spread of native bites they put on a tray for each couple to share and served us coconut water. Then she taught us a call and response over the sunset which made me want to cry. They let us try out each of their native instruments as we played along to the song the historian played and our vocalist taught us hula dancing. Not dumb, silly dancing, but she explained the moves so that it flowed. During the tour we'd come close to a few of the party boats and they didn't look like they were having as much fun as we were. When the tour was over, we landed and our Uber driver was taking her time. Captain Rob and the vocalist saw us waiting and refused to leave us alone because they said the dock could get rough at night. It was amazing to see them be so protective and they waited till our car got there. This crew's mission is to educate and they tell us that the tickets we paid will pay for school children to visit and learn their tradition. What beautiful people and what an amazing experience that will haunt us for years. read more

See all

My husband Chris and 2 year old baby girl Zinnia surprised me for my birthday with this gorgeous canoe sunset ride with Kamoauli. The moment we arrived we were welcomed by Captain Rob. He informed us of interesting facts and history of the vessel. Before we sailed, one of the lead instructors Mahina sang a prayer/chant for our safe travels which was beautiful and majestic. Once we started to sail, Mahina educated us on the history of their beautiful island. We were able to enjoy and relax while overlooking the ocean. Mahina taught us how to make lei's for each other which was such a memorable experience for my husband and my daughter. We are going to keep those forever and I can't wait to teach my 2 year old baby girl. Then my husband helped make traditional poi in which we enjoyed a delicious snack afterwards! My daughter Zinnia definitely enjoyed all the fruits and chicken. We said a goodbye chant/prayer together and can really feel the mana from the entire crew. One of the last activities was one of my favorites which was dancing hula. I've danced Tahitian since I was 16 and now learning a little older I'm learning to love and appreciate Hula more. We adored Mahinas hula to the newly married couple which took everyone's breath away. We all participated in the end while dancing a beautiful sunset. Right before we docked, we all had an instrument and to my surprise, everyone sang Happy birthday to me. Mahina and the crew sang in Hawaiian which was so beautiful. We enjoyed our first sunset cruise as a family, the entire staff was beyond gracious, knowledgeable and kind. Thank you captai Rob, Mahina, Kamana'o, Gigi and Ethan! Definitely a must while in Hawaii! read more

See all

What an excellent excursion this was! Captain Rob is so knowledgeable about the area and truly lives his mission of perpetuating Hawaiian culture! His cultural practitioners and crew are outstanding! I've lived here 11 years and learned many new things through the stories shared! The cruise was interactive, educational, entertaining, and they served delicious culturally appropriate foods! We will be doing this again! read more

See all

I recently had the pleasure of taking a boat tour in Hawaii, and it was an absolutely unforgettable experience. Our guides provided knowledge of the island's history and culture through information and local hawaiian food sampling that richly added to the experience. The boat itself was comfortable, well-maintained, and offered plenty of opportunities to snap breathtaking photos of the water and mountains. We even had the chance to spot dolphins. which the guides avidly searched for. they seemed as excited as we were at spotting the marine life. Their camaraderie added to the fun of the tour. If you're looking for a boat tour that goes beyond the usual, this is it. The combination of stunning views, local culture, and expert guidance made for an experience that was both relaxing and enriching. Highly recommend! read more

See all

2.27.22 sunset sail on the Kamoauli There are so many wonderful things that I need to say about this sail company. First thing is the immense wealth of Hawaiiana that one will get from going on a sail with Kamoauli. The crew this day consisted of the captain- Rob, crew help James, educator Hawaiian educator Pua and Hawaiian historian Kawika gave our small group the most beautiful experience I can remember. The many years I've lived in Hawaii being born and raised I had many times been at sea in a boat on more then several times for different reasons... I was even in an outrigger canoe team in High School. I highly recommend everyone and most anyone (unless you get easily sick at sea) to experience a sail on Kamoauli. It's a great touch into Hawaiian culture, food, song, dance and best of all... a beautiful sail into and around Honolulu bay. Added, scenery beautiful lesson on the Hawaiian Culture and immersive way to be around the whole reason why we live "Aloha" in Hawaii. The whole experience will make you feel encouraged, Loved, and you'll want to adapt into Hawaiian ways almost instantly.... share it, be it and live it - Hawaiian. Don't forget too to tip them before you leave... it's a priceless experience I definitely wanna go again when I can. read more

Kamoauli - 2/27/22 - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

This is the best. It is educational, fun and really cool! The crew of five goes out of their way to make sure you have a great time. Everyone has a smile on their face and personalize your experience. It is truly 5 star. read more

This is my favorite thing we did during our stay here. Not only is it a magical experience to sail along the coastline on a beautiful catamaran, but it's a wonderful cultural experience in which you are treated to Hawaiian history, live Hawaiian music, and Hawaiian food and dance. It's clear how much thought and detail is put into making the trip both memorable and meaningful. Captain Jay, Jasmine, Sonny, and Ethan make every minute of your time on board incredibly special. My 10 year old and I both had the best time. I cannot recommend this experience highly enough! read more

This was a lovely experience for the family. Captain Robert and the crew were dedicated to giving us an authentic and educational boat ride. I definitely recommend this trip as it exceeded my expectations. The beautiful views of Waikiki from the ocean, tasty treats, educational activities, song and dance. Thank you to the whole crew for insuring we experienced something special. read more

Kamoauli - View of Diamond Head from the ocean. - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I booked a private sail with Kamoauili on March 19, 2024, for a trip scheduled on June 16, 2024, at 11 am. Less than 24 hours before our scheduled sail, at 4:36 pm on June 15, 2024, I received an email stating that they would not be sailing because it was Father's Day on June 16. They suggested calling to reschedule. This last-minute cancellation was extremely unprofessional and left us in a very difficult position. With our entire trip planned and finalized, and our departure from Hawaii set for June 18, we had no flexibility to reschedule. Such short notice made it impossible to rearrange our plans nor find an alternative. This kind of service is very disappointing, especially considering the significant time and financial investment involved in booking a private sail. I understand that unforeseen circumstances can arise, but this was a clear case of poor planning and communication on their part. I would advise others to be cautious when booking with them. read more

Kamoauli - Email I received when they cancelled less than 24 hours of our bookings. - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

See all

I can't recommend Kamoauli enough = it was a unique, informative experience in Honolulu. My organization did the outing as part of a leadership development day. It gave us a chance to be together, get outside and learn a great deal about Hawaiian culture and Oahu. The crew was very welcoming, knowledgeable and safety conscious. We saw spinner dolphins and sea turtles along the way as well - and they stopped to make sure we could really see them. I really liked knowing that our trip was contributing to making this experience available to school children and educational institutions. read more

Kamoauli - View during the trip! - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Went on a Ho'okele ahiahi (sunset cruise)with my daughter and her girlfriend today. This cruise was far superior to others and here are some reasons why; The experience and learning begins and ends on the docks. The crew are cultural practioners, subject matter experts, with the experience and knowledge of Oahu that is deep and profound. I learned so much more about Hawaiian history, navigation, surfing and hula. Kapua & Kawika played beautiful Hawaiian music and taught us how to properly use Hawaiian hula instruments and the hula. We then learned to pound "kalo" and make "pahiai." After we were served a delicious traditional meal of fish, sweet potato, mango, papaya and coconut water to eat with the pahiai we prepared. The cruise was fun, educational and along the way we caught a glimpse of some turtles and a Hawaiian Monk seal. This is a unique, one- of-a-kind experience available on Kamoauli. Most important this cruise subsidizes the cost of school-aged children to have class with great teachers and leaders on the waters of the beautiful Mamala Bay. read more

Kamoauli - This is our tour ohana with our hula implements, Kapua (in front) and Kawika left are our awesome kumu (teachers). - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I have done a lot cruises but this is the best one!! I definitely recommend it especially if you are interested in Hawaiian Culture. Kamoauli team was absolutely amazing. Great singers, entertainers, and storytellers. I would like to recommend to everyone both kids and adult :) I would love to go back again! read more

See all

This was such a wonderful experience with an expert crew with true local knowledge and the aloha spirit. We enjoyed sailing on the coast and were even able to swim at a safe location and snorkel and see beautiful sea life in its natural habitat! Thank you so much for such a memorable experience- I highly recommend this to anyone looking for an authentic and fun time in the ocean, this sail is great for residents and tourists! Mahalo! read more

Absolutely phenomenal experience!!! I would recommend this over a lu'au as you get so much cultural education in an intimate and peaceful setting. I'm a local and I learned so much from this sunset sail. Kawika is a tremendous storyteller and had legend after legend to share. Lei teaches the hula so beautifully. The crew (sorry names are slipping) but you two were also so kind and caring. Nothing but positive things to say. Thank you! Thank you! Can't wait to tell everyone about this rare island gem. read more

See all

This was such an amazing experience. The boat is beautiful and we loved the nets that you can relax on. The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. My 7 year old son also loved it. He couldn't stop talking about how he got to jam out on the ukulele with aunty. Another thing he loved was making the poi. He was so proud of his poi he made. I loved hearing about the Hawaiian history and culture. It's was a great time and if you're considering going on this sail I strongly encourage you to do so. You will be happy you did. read more

See all

This is truly something special. We took the sunset cruise for my birthday, and I expected the usual thing, but this far surpassed my expectations. They have an actual Hawaiian historian on board, who regales passengers with stories of the history of Waikiki and surrounding areas. When he is not speaking, a traditional Hawaiian practitioner teaches skills such as making kappa and fresh poi, in between sharing the traditional stories of the Hawaiian people. Once it's time to head back to shore, the freshly made poi is eaten with poke, fresh coconut, and if you are lucky, homemade kalua pork. For dessert, haupia. This is not to be missed. read more

My family had the amazing opportunity to sail on Kamoauli for a sunset cruise to the Westside of the island and we couldn't be more happy with the entire experience! The moment we set foot on this one of kind Polynesian canoe we just couldn't wait for the adventure to begin! Captain Rob, First Mate Kawika, and the rest of the Kamoauli crew did an awesome job of weaving Hawaiian lore and legend with the breathtaking views of both island and ocean. Having the opportunity to sail on a traditional Polynesian canoe made the experience way more legit and I can't recommend this cruise enough! Kamoauli maika'i!!! read more

See all

I've been visiting Hawaii for over twenty years. This experience was overwhelmingly the most wonderful! Stepping onto the historic ship I felt a calm that carried through the sunset cruise. Music, dancing and lessons in Polynesian culture filled the voyage with pure love. read more

Absolutely fantastic adventure to do here! Support local, learn local culture, practices, and gain a bit of history of the south shore from the islands own. Crew and captain were amazing! Safety and fun were a priority, and risk the chance to see some of O'ahu's wildlife as well (nai'a and honu's-dolphins and sea turtles). Definitely made for group tours and class/school excursions. read more

Kamoauli - Explored below deck - Historical Tours Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

I can't begin to describe this experience. I was looking for a gift for my husband that was educational in nature and more hands on, this was exactly it. It was one part touristy in that it was a beauty view of Waikiki and sunset on an outrigger and 3 parts going on your uncles boat to learn about the culture and history of your ohana. So intimate and warm and powerful as we chanted the setting of the sun! The poke that they offered was incredible and wonderfully paired with the freshly pounded poi that we all made ourselves! I was so sad when it was over! Every ticket you buy go towards free educational trips for local schools! There's just no reason not to do this. read more

You CANNOT miss out on this experience! Best excursion we did on our first trip to Hawaii! Our sunset cruise was an intimate group of 6 people. The crew welcomed us and made us feel like family. They provided a cultural experience, opportunity to learn more about the history of Hawaii, a hula lesson and some amazing fresh fruit, smoked mackerel (my favorite!) and more! The beautiful sunset was an added benefit. I highly recommend this to any individual, couple and family. There is something for everyone! Kamoauli crew, mahalo for your outpouring of love you showed us! read more

Highly recommended for families looking for a fun day at sea and with the bonus of learning about the rich, enchanting culture of the Polynesian Islands! Truly one of the best cultural experiences we've had on our visits to Hawaii. The canoe is beautiful, polished and comfortable (lots of space to walk around and also a good amount of shade). The crew was welcoming, knowledgeable and very fun hosts for an afternoon on the Hawaiian sea. This was a unique sailing adventure focused on Hawaiian culture, respecting traditions and educating youth (but I learned a lot too!). read more

The Captain and all Native Hawaiian Crew really know how to welcome you aboard with Aloha! Only traditional Native Hawaiian Wa'a (pronounced va'a) on the islands. We learned so much about the history of the Waikiki coastline, ate some delicious local food, saw turtles and helped sing down the sun! Definitely a must do while on O'ahu. read more

The boat is awesome, the crew was fun, helpful, and knew a lot about Hawaiian history, and the lu'au was really special. Highly recommend this boat tour (even above the party boats) read more

This was such an amazing adventure for our family! We took all our children from 3-17 and they all thoroughly enjoyed it! Beautiful views of Hawaii from the water and an amazing cultural experience sailing on this unique Polynesian canoe! read more

Today was an amazing morning out on the water on the Kamoauli! It was my first time on board and my friends and I had a wonderful time. The crew works so hard to make sure every guest has a safe, memorable and educational trip; you can tell they really love what they do. The cultural aspect of the trip was such an interesting aspect too and being able to go out on a double hull canoe is so fun. I loved hearing all the stories, getting to participate in some cultural practices and eat some yummy food! This is a very unique adventure. I highly recommend checking them out! read more

So happy to see that this hawaiian business is back on the water! I was fortunate enough to sail with them when they were still docked out of Ko'olina at the start of their launch. I can't wait to hear the mo'olelo of the Diamond Head side of the island and for my Keiki to see pa'iai made on board. I've only heard it's gotten better and can't wait to Hana hou! Support local! Maika'i, Kamoauli! read more

Very knowledgeable about the Hawaiian culture and Great moolelo (stories) on there Crew is really nice high recommend giving them a look!

Best crew out there!! Very informative and lots of fun!! HIGHLY recommend if visiting the island!!