Napali Catamaran or Captain Andy’s

Question

My family, including children ages 10 and 5, will be in Kauai in early May. We very much want to do a Napali Coast tour. We could leave from either the north or south as we’re staying on both sides. I’m torn between the comfort of Captain Andy’s boats and feel the larger boat could make for a more comfortable and less bumpy ride for my younger child. However, in the north, I know we will see more of the coast and have a shorter trip (3 hours vs nearly 6), which could be a benefit with kids. I read one review that said the seats on Napali Catamaran are really uncomfortable. Please share your thoughts and experiences. This is a big trip and I want to make the right decision. By the way, none of us have any history of motion or sea sickness. Thank you!

Answer

Both the Napali Catamaran and Captain Andy’s offer wonderful experiences of the Napali Coast, but there are key differences that can influence your decision, especially with young children.

Napali Catamaran (North Shore departures):

Shorter trip: About 3 hours, which can be ideal for children as it’s less time at sea.
Scenic views: North Shore departures often provide a more complete view of the Napali Coast, including towering cliffs and waterfalls not as visible from the south.
Smaller boat: Catamarans are typically smaller and may feel bumpier in choppier waters, though you mentioned no history of sea sickness.
Seating comfort: Some guests find the seats less comfortable for longer periods, but for a 3-hour trip this is usually manageable.
Access: Departures from the north require being in the Princeville/Haena area, which may involve a longer drive if you are coming from the south side first.

Captain Andy’s (South Shore departures):

Larger boat: Provides a more stable ride, which can feel more comfortable for children, and allows more room to move around.
Longer trip: About 5–6 hours, since the boat starts further south; can be tiring for younger kids, but still doable if they are active and enjoy the sea.
Comprehensive amenities: Offers more seating options, shade, and sometimes onboard snacks or drinks, making it more family-friendly for longer trips.
Views: South Shore departures still offer amazing scenery, but some of the more remote northern waterfalls and cliff faces may be farther away.
Logistics: Easier for those staying on the south side (Poipu, Koloa) to reach without a long drive.

Some considerations to help you choose:

With a 5-year-old and 10-year-old, the shorter North Shore catamaran trip may be easier to handle in terms of attention span and comfort, even if the boat is smaller.
If you prioritize comfort, space, and stability, especially for moving around and letting kids play a bit on deck, Captain Andy’s south departure may be better.
Departure location matters: staying on the north side makes the catamaran more convenient, while south side accommodations make Captain Andy’s easier.
Both options provide excellent Napali Coast views and opportunities to see marine life like dolphins and turtles.

In summary, if your main priority is a shorter, visually spectacular trip that’s easier on kids’ attention spans, the Napali Catamaran north departure is excellent. If you prefer a more comfortable, stable ride with more space to move and amenities for children, Captain Andy’s south departure is likely the better choice. Either way, you’ll experience some of the most stunning coastline in Hawaii.

Napali Catamaran or Captain Andy’s

More Kauai Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions