Gemini, Trilogy, or Teralani for sunset sail - not dinner

Question

We (4 adults) are looking for a west side sail in later October with dinks and appetizers. Hoping to find one where we won't get wet boarding. Is this possible with Gemini, Trilogy or Teralani? Any reason to choose one over the other? We have sailed both Gemini and Trilogy which were great but several years ago and I don't remember if we got wet or not. If there are others I should consider please share. Thanks.

Answer

Aloha! It sounds like you're looking for a great sunset sail with drinks and appetizers, and you're right to consider factors like comfort and dryness when boarding. Here’s a breakdown of your options and some tips for your trip:

All three companies—Gemini, Trilogy, and Teralani—are well-regarded for their sunset sails, and each offers slightly different experiences. Let’s go over the specifics of boarding and some other details to help you decide:

Gemini:
Gemini is known for its comfortable catamaran experience, and it’s generally a good option for those looking for a relaxing sail. When it comes to boarding, they do offer a relatively easy entry process, especially with their larger boats, so it’s unlikely that you’ll get too wet, especially if conditions are calm. The crew is skilled at making boarding as smooth as possible. The sunset sail is more about the leisurely experience, with drinks and appetizers provided. However, keep in mind that on windy days, a little splash is still possible, especially if you're boarding from a smaller boat at the dock. They’re a great choice for those looking for a more laid-back sail with friendly staff.
Trilogy:
Trilogy is another excellent choice. They are known for their friendly, professional crews and strong emphasis on comfort and safety. Boarding is typically easy with Trilogy as they have large catamarans, but again, it can vary slightly depending on the ocean conditions. If you’re boarding from the dock, there could be some splashing, but it won’t be anything overwhelming. If you're concerned about getting wet, Trilogy is a solid choice as their crews often offer assistance to ensure everyone gets on board dry. The appetizers and drinks are excellent, and Trilogy also offers a great range of sunset sailing options, with a more premium experience than some others, so if you’re looking for a bit more luxury, this could be the one to go with.
Teralani:
Teralani’s catamarans are known for being spacious and well-equipped, offering a smooth sailing experience. Boarding can be a little trickier depending on the water conditions and where you are embarking, but they typically use larger boats that make the process smoother and less likely to leave you wet. Teralani’s sunset sail is particularly popular for its relaxed vibe, and their appetizers and drinks are high quality. If you’ve sailed with Gemini and Trilogy before, Teralani offers a more intimate, slightly quieter experience, so it might be the perfect option if you’re looking for a slightly less crowded sail.

Here are a few other tips and suggestions:

Boarding: In general, most of these companies will try to keep you dry when boarding, but the nature of the boat and the weather conditions can make it difficult to avoid any wetness. However, it's typically just a quick splash and nothing too bad. If you’re especially concerned, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and ask for advice specific to your departure time and weather.
Appetizers & Drinks: All three companies are known for their excellent service with drinks and appetizers. Trilogy and Teralani might offer a slightly more elevated experience, but Gemini also does a great job with a more laid-back, comfortable vibe.
Other Alternatives: If you’re looking for more options, consider Paragon Sailing or Alii Nui, both of which also offer sunset sails with drinks and appetizers. They are known for smaller groups and a slightly more intimate feel, which might be more to your liking if you prefer a quieter, more personal sailing experience.

In conclusion, all three options—Gemini, Trilogy, and Teralani—are great, and you can't really go wrong with any of them. It really depends on your preference for the overall experience: if you're looking for luxury and service, Trilogy is fantastic; if you want a more laid-back vibe, Gemini is a great choice; and if you prefer something a little quieter and more intimate, Teralani is perfect. Just be prepared for the possibility of a little splash when boarding, but it's unlikely to be anything too uncomfortable.

Enjoy your sunset sail and have a wonderful time in Maui!