Holo, Captain Andy’s, Captain J’s

Question

Family of 4 traveling March 5-13. Trying to decide between these 3 companies for a Napali Coast tour. All seem really good. Not really interested in a bunch of food or alcohol. Really want a great experience, good views, snorkeling is a plus. Kids are 7 and 12, very adventurous.

TIA.

Answer

The Nā Pali Coast is one of the most spectacular sights on Kauai, and taking a tour is a fantastic way to experience it. There are several excellent options for boat tours, and each of the companies you mentioned—Holo, Captain Andy’s, and Captain J’s—offers unique experiences. Based on your preferences (focusing on a great experience with views and snorkeling, but without the emphasis on food or alcohol), here’s a breakdown of the three options:

1. Holo (Holo Holo Charters): Holo Holo Charters offers an exceptional, family-friendly experience with a focus on the stunning views of the Nā Pali Coast. The boats are smaller (ranging from 16 to 24 passengers), which creates a more intimate and personalized experience. The company is known for its knowledgeable crew and great customer service. They typically offer a 5-hour tour, which includes snorkeling at a secluded location along the coast, offering a chance to see dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life. Holo Holo is known for being more flexible and responsive to guest needs. The tours are not heavily focused on food or alcohol, so it might be a good fit for your family if you're looking for a more streamlined, nature-focused experience. Expect:

Intimate boat tours with fewer guests
Good snorkeling opportunities
Stunning views of Nā Pali Coast with a great chance of spotting wildlife
Less emphasis on food and drink

2. Captain Andy’s: Captain Andy’s has been running Nā Pali Coast tours for decades and is a highly reputable operator. Their boats are larger than Holo Holo’s, but they offer a wide variety of tours, including some that focus specifically on nature and snorkeling. The company has a reputation for delivering smooth, reliable, and enjoyable tours, even in sometimes challenging weather conditions. They offer both morning and afternoon departures, and some of their tours are more focused on relaxation and enjoyment, while others focus more on adventure and snorkeling. Captain Andy’s is also known for providing great family-friendly experiences. While they do serve food and drinks (on some tours), you can still enjoy the beautiful coastline and snorkeling without the food being a central part of the experience. For a family with adventurous kids, this could be a great option. Expect:

Larger, more stable boats—ideal for families with kids
Great snorkeling opportunities at beautiful spots along the coast
Comfortable and smooth tours, even in choppier water
Less focus on food and drinks, but they are available on certain tours

3. Captain J’s: Captain J’s offers a more adventurous experience on smaller, more nimble boats, making it ideal for those who want a more “wild ride” along the coast. They focus on small group tours, which means a more personalized experience, and they are known for their enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides. For a family like yours with adventurous kids, this could be a great fit, as they can go off-the-beaten-path to explore less accessible parts of the coastline. They also offer snorkeling, but be aware that because their tours are more focused on adventure and exploration, the overall tour might be a bit more fast-paced and less leisurely than some of the other options. Expect:

Small, adventurous boat tours for a more exciting experience
Great snorkeling opportunities with a focus on adventure and exploration
Fast-paced, with the chance to see more secluded spots along the coast
Less emphasis on food or alcohol

Recommendations: Since you’re traveling with kids and want a good mix of adventure, views, and snorkeling, I’d recommend considering the following:

If you prefer a more intimate, family-friendly experience with great snorkeling: Holo Holo Charters is an excellent choice. They focus on nature and small groups, making it a great fit for families seeking a more personal and relaxed experience.
If you want a larger, more stable boat with plenty of opportunities for adventure and comfort: Captain Andy’s might be the best fit. Their well-established tours are smooth, family-friendly, and give you plenty of time for both the coast views and snorkeling.
If you’re seeking a fast-paced, adventurous experience: Captain J’s would be the right choice for a more exciting and dynamic tour. Their smaller boats offer a more hands-on, intimate experience with access to more remote parts of the Nā Pali Coast.

No matter which company you choose, you’ll have an incredible time exploring the Nā Pali Coast. Each tour company has its own special vibe, but all offer the breathtaking views and snorkeling experiences you’re looking for. Enjoy your adventure, and safe travels to Kauai!

Holo, Captain Andy’s, Captain J’s

More Kauai Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions