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Hawaiian Seascapes, Hawaii
Kahului, Maui to Kailua-Kona, Big Island
7-night / 8-day
Aboard the 36 Guest Safari Explorer Yacht
Respecting Traditions
Throughout your inter-island experience, our yacht cruise will seek out an earlier Hawaii, of graceful cultural traditions and pristine natural beauty. We may invite local experts on board, to tell tales of Hawaiian royalty, or speak of the early navigators. We'll seek out private visits that embody the Hawaii Aloha Spirit. During tours ashore our transport is always exclusive, reserved for you and fellow yacht mates.
The itinerary description below begins with embarkation at Kahului, Maui and ends with disembarkation at Kawaihae Harbor on the Big Island. The cruise route and timing is provided as a general guideline as the Safari Explorer’s Captain adjusts the flow to maximize exclusive cruising opportunities and visits to attractions and remote retreats. Flexible scheduling also leads to the best whale watching and encounters with other wildlife as well as taking advantage of currents and changes in weather. Whether afloat or ashore, the following experiences are included in your yacht adventure.
Day 1: Kahului, Maui
We sail from the Kahului, Maui harbor into prime humpback whale-watching waters. These whales winter in Hawaii to bear their calves and spend summers feeding in Alaska which is also the Safari Explorer’s summer home. Later, we anchor in a protected bay for the evening to get acquainted and relax on deck, in the hot tub or in the Wine Library with the warm breezes and stars above as company.
Day 2: Lana'i - The Private Island
Wake to the floral-sweet aromas and bright skies of Hawaii as you learn about the myriad ways you can enjoy the waters and shores of Maui, Lana’i, Moloka’i and the Big Island. Underway to Lana’i, the former pineapple capital of the world, your yacht cruises by white-sand beaches and brings into view a long-abandoned relic perched high along Shipwreck Beach.
Lana’i’s steep rock faces line many protected coves. Spend an unhurried afternoon snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, sailing, kayaking and hiking along the deserted rock walls of an early Hawaiian village. The Safari Explorer’s retractable swim platform makes it very easy to get in and out of the kayaks, motorized skiffs and to snorkel or swim. Crewmembers are always on hand to assist and even join you in the two-seat kayaks if you’ve never had an opportunity to try it before. Reboard to enjoy a complimentary massage, a fine glass of wine in the Wine Library or lounge on the top deck.
Day 3: Moloka'i - The Friendly Isle
On Moloka'i, Hawaii's Most Traditional Island, your included tour stops at the summit overlooking Kalaupapa Peninsula, now a National Historic Park. The cliffs here are the steepest of any islands in the world. Hear the heartwarming story of Father Damien and his dedication to those afflicted with Hansen’s disease. Some visitors descend the scenically spectacular mountain trail by mule while others hike the 3 miles down and back. Another extraordinary opportunity awaits on ancient lands to discover magnificent waterfalls and authentic Hawaiian farming techniques. Few Hawaii visitors venture away from the populated centers on Oahu or Maui to experience the scenic wonders of the island between them, Moloka’i. The Safari Explorer is the ideal way to visit the Hawaiian people and incredible places of this truly remarkable hideaway isle. In the evening, enjoy a tribute to the hula dance (born on Moloka’i.)
Day 4: Maui - Lahaina and Trails of History
Lahaina evokes singular charm and Hawaiian flavor while bustling with activity. An included excursion along the shores and into the hillsides reveals ancient Hawaiian lore. Travel to the tarot farm home site of Uncle Oliver to “talk story,” learning about Hawaiian family life. Hike through green hillsides accessible only to small groups. Reboard the Safari Explorer to cruise the waters off Maui with views of crescent-shaped Molokini and the deserted island of Kaho’olawe. Look for pods of humpback whales and spinner dolphins playing in the yacht’s bow wake. Anchor for the night with Haleakala as your tropical backdrop.
Day 5: Explorer’s Maui
Your Captain will deliver you to leeward bays and beaches, most of which are inaccessible to highway or other travelers. Excellent snorkeling, kayaking and hiking make this a day of discovery and active adventure. Cruise this evening to the shores of Hawaii, the Big Island.
Day 6: Hilo - Waterfalls & Soaring Above Volcanoes National Park
Enjoy a port call at historic Hilo. A highlight is an included helicopter tour. Soar above the lush tropical landscape to view several remote waterfalls, linger over the bright orange lava flows and view the steam clouds rising from Kilauea’s caldera. During your transfer and tour, you’ll also be able to hike to Rainbow and Akaka falls. If lava is flowing into the ocean from Kilauea Caldera, we’ll view the rising steam and colorful lava from the decks of the Safari Explorer at night.
Day 7: The Big Island - Lava Shores & Ocean Adventures
The Safari Explorer passes by volcanic-shaped formations along the rugged shoreline and cruises by Black Sands Beach before edging around Ka Lae (southernmost tip of the United States). Your exploration continues up the dramatic Kona coastline where Captain Cook once sailed. Set course for the sacred Place of Refuge and hear the stories of defeated warriors or those accused of breaking a Kapu (Hawaiian law) who sought safe haven in Pu’uhonua o Honaunau. An included snorkeling excursion in Kealakekua Bay, home to the towering Captain Cook Monument, reveals a diversity of colorful corals, sponges and tropical fishes. Green sea turtles, manta rays and large barracuda are often found in this area. A festive Captain’s Farewell Dinner and photographic journey of your week onboard the Safari Explorer ends with Hana hou! - Hawaiian for encore.
Day 8: Kona, The Big Island
Aloha! as the Safari Explorer arrives at the Kawaihae docking facility above Kailua-Kona for a 9:00 am disembarkation. Transfers are provided to the Kona airport or Mauna Lani Resort if you have arranged for a post-cruise extension.
