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Kauai's Ultimate WEST SIDE Whale & Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure
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Overview
**SEASON: Nov/Dec - March** • Kekaha • 2.5 Hour Tour • Ages 5+ • Witness Whales Breaching & Singing
Duration: 2.5 Hours
Cancellation Summary: 24 hours BEFORE Tour Start time for Regular Tours / 72 hours BEFORE Tour Start time for Private Charters
Meeting Point: 8932 Kekaha Road Kekaha, HI
Min Age: 5
Group Size: 14
Accessibility: Not Accessible
Description: ##Jump into Kauai's Ultimate WEST SIDE Whale & Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure – Your Portal to the Ocean's Grand Spectacles!
Available Seasonally: November/December – March/April Each Year.
Discover Nature's Majesty from Kauai’s West Side
Embark on an exhilarating Whale & Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure from Kekaha, the gateway to unparalleled marine experiences. From late November/early December to March, the western waters of Kauai transform into a vibrant stage for the North Pacific Humpback whales, the majestic "gentle giants" of the sea.
The Advantage of Kekaha’s West Side
Kekaha’s prime location on Kauai's west side offers swift access to the most dynamic whale habitats, ensuring more frequent sightings and an extraordinary adventure amidst the ocean's wonders.
A Journey with the Ocean's Titans
Marvel at the elegance of these colossal beings as they undertake their 3,000-mile migration to Hawaiian waters, a spectacle of nature's grandeur and a testament to the resilience of life.
Whale Watching, Not Whale Seeing: A Celebration of Nature’s Unpredictability
Our WEST SIDE Whale Watching Tours are more than an opportunity to see whales; they are an invitation to immerse yourself in the unpredictability and splendor of the natural world. It's important to remember the essence of whale watching lies in the adventure and the possibility of witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, not a guaranteed sighting. Each tour is a unique voyage into the heart of the ocean's majesty.
Book Your West Side Adventure Now!
Don’t miss this seasonal opportunity to connect with the humpback whales in Kekaha's magical waters. Reserve your spot today for Kauai’s most thrilling whale watching experience and be part of an intimate and exciting journey that brings you face-to-face with the ocean's wonders.
If your preferred date is fully booked, our sister company's SOUTH SIDE TOUR from Poipu offers an alternative path to witness the majestic dance of the humpbacks in their natural setting.
PLEASE NOTE
This tour requires a minimum of 4 guests to confirm, and while we understand this may be inconvenient, our reservations team will do everything possible to secure confirmation and provide timely alternatives if the tour does not meet minimums.
What is Included: * Dry Bag for Personal Items: Keep your essentials safe and dry as you explore the coast.
Professional & Knowledgeable Crew:
- Expert Guidance: Our crew is made up of seasoned professionals with deep knowledge of Kauai's marine ecosystem, local wildlife, and the history. They are passionate about sharing their love for the island and its natural wonders.
- Certified & Experienced: Each crew member is trained and certified in marine safety and first aid. Their expertise ensures not only your safety but also an educational experience.
- Personalized Service: With a limited number of guests on board, our crew can offer individual attention and tailor the tour to your group’s needs, making it a more intimate and immersive adventure.
- Friendly & Fun: Known for their welcoming Hawaiian spirit, our crew members go above and beyond to make sure you have the time of your life. They are always available to answer questions, even capture photos of your experience, so you don’t miss a moment of the action.
What is not Included: #🎒 You MAY want to Bring: - Sunscreen (Reef Safe, applied at least 30 minutes prior to the tour)
- Swimsuit (please wear as there are no changing facilities)
- Towel, Sunglasses (with leash), and hat (with secure straps)
- Light Jacket (if you tend to be chilly after being in the water)
- Long hair? Secure it in a ponytail.
- Change of Clothes
- Booking Voucher (if booked by concierge)
- Cash/Credit Card for Souvenirs & Gratuity (if you appreciated your guides, tips aer welcome but not mandatory).
- Bring your smiles and adventure spirit - you're in Hawaii after all!
⛔ What NOT to Bring:
- Irreplaceable or Expensive Items
-
Rental Car Keys - PLEASE LEAVE IN THE VAN AT DOCK
Highlights: #Why Choose Our Zodiac Boat Adventure? -
Strategic Departure: Our launch point in Kekaha positions us at the heart of whale activity, promising more encounters with these gentle giants.
- Thrilling Exploration: Our Zodiac boats, designed for speed and agility, navigate the vibrant west coast, offering up-close experiences with the whales. This isn't just a tour; it's an adventure that brings you into the heart of the ocean's mysteries.
- Safe Yet Intimate Encounters: The low profile of our Zodiac boats allows for closer interactions with the whales (following strict safety guidelines and regulations for protection of marine life), providing an immersive and possibly splash-filled experience!
- Unforgettable Memories: Ideal for families and adventurers, our tours create enduring memories and stories that capture the imagination.
Check in Details: Tour start times and check-in times are STRICT! You will receive detailed meeting instructions and GPS links in your confirmation email and text messages prior to the tour once confirmed.
Special Requirements: * Age Requirement: Participants must be 5 years or older to join in the adventure. - Self-Transportation Required: Guests are responsible for their own transport to and from the launch site in Kekaha. Info included in detailed confirmation email once you have a reservation.
Restrictions: # ⚓Kauai Sea Riders Boat Policy: - No expectant mothers will be permitted to board vessel.
- This is an ocean adventure. Ocean conditions can vary and may turn rough at times; this tour may not be suitable for everyone.
- If anyone is prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking a preventative ahead of time. No refunds are given for seasickness.
- Children must be at least 7 years old to board vessel.
- If anyone requires daily medication like asthma inhalers, epi-pens, insulin, or other necessary medications, it is mandatory that you bring them with you on your tour.
- Anyone with chronic back, neck or hip injuries, or back pains and/or limb impairment/injuries should not board vessel.
- Anyone with recent surgeries of any kind should not board vessel.
- Full-face snorkel masks are not allowed, guests are required to use traditional two-piece snorkel and mask sets that are provided by us or they may bring their own.
-
No smoking on tour
Disclaimers: ###Important Tour Considerations: -
Adventure Awaits: Be prepared for an adventure on the high seas; this is an exhilarating journey, not a leisurely cruise.
- Focus on Whale Watching: This tour is dedicated to the pursuit of whale watching and does not include snorkeling activities.
Meeting And Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
Meeting point
Street: 8932 Kekaha Road
City: Kekaha
Country: US
Postal Code: 96752
Province: HI
Additional Info
Aloha and thank you for choosing Kauai Sea Rider Adventures for your upcoming Kauai WEST SIDE Whale & Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure. To ensure you have the best experience, please review the details below thoroughly.
🐋 An Ocean's Adventure Awaits:
Whale watching is about observing nature in its raw form. While we strive to give you the best experience, remember, every trip is unique. Whale sightings aren't guaranteed, but that’s what makes each adventure special! Trust us; our skilled captains and crew use every tool and technique to maximize your chances.
PLEASE NOTE
This tour requires a minimum of 4 guests to confirm, and while we understand this may be inconvenient, our reservations team will do everything possible to secure confirmation and provide timely alternatives if the tour does not meet minimums.
🚤 Tour Details:
Departure: From the Small Boat Harbor in KEKAHA, WEST side of Kauai. For directions, click "GET DIRECTIONS" in the PURPLE SECTION of this email.
Duration: Approximately 2-2.5 hours. Note: Duration can vary due to conditions and sightings.
📌 Important Reminders:
- Check-In Time: Arrive 15 minutes before your tour starts. (This harbor is located 45 min from Poipu, please plan ahead!)
- 🕰 Timeliness is Key:
Tours start on time. No exceptions for latecomers. Late arrivals are considered day-of cancellations without refunds. If you're late but we can reschedule (not guaranteed), a $45+tax fee will apply per person.
⚓ Our Vessel:
Join us on our 25' Rigid Hull Zodiac Boat: "Ho'okahi". These boats, known for speed and agility. These vessels have a closer proximity to the water, so you might experience refreshing splashes. There are no formal "seats" – you'll sit on the inflatable tubes on the boat's periphery. Additionally, there's no bathroom or shade on board. If you're anticipating a luxurious cruise, this tour might not be for you. Unsure of what a "Zodiac Boat" is, please LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR BOAT
🎒 We've Got You Covered:
- Dry Bag for personal belongings
- Light Snacks and Non-Alcoholic Beverages (Bring own reusable water bottle for water)
🎒 You MAY want to Bring:
- Rain/Splash Jacket
- Reusable Water Bottle (we've stopped using plastic bottles)
- Sunscreen (applied at least 30 minutes prior to the tour)
- Water-friendly clothes and shoes.
- Towel, Sunglasses (with leash), and hat (with secure straps)
- Long hair? Secure it in a ponytail.
- Change of Warm Clothes
- 📸 don't forget camera (contact our office if you need a WATERPROOF PHONE CASE - $20+tax)
- Booking Voucher (if booked by concierge)
- Cash/Credit Card for Souvenirs & Gratuity (if you enjoy our service, tips are welcome but not mandatory).
- Bring your smiles and adventure spirit - you're in Hawaii after all!
⛔ What NOT to Bring:
- Irreplaceable or Expensive Items
- Rental Car Keys - PLEASE LEAVE IN THE VAN AT DOCK
⚓Kauai Sea Riders Boat Policy:
- No expectant mothers will be permitted to board vessel.
- This is an ocean adventure. Ocean conditions can vary and may turn rough at times; this tour may not be suitable for everyone.
- If anyone is prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking a preventative ahead of time. No refunds are given for seasickness.
- Children must be at least 5 years old to board vessel.
- If anyone requires daily medication like asthma inhalers, epi-pens, insulin, or other necessary medications, it is mandatory that you bring them with you on your tour.
- Anyone with chronic back, neck or hip injuries, or back pains and/or limb impairment/injuries should not board vessel.
- Anyone with recent surgeries of any kind should not board vessel.
- No smoking on tour
Get Ready For Your Adventure!
All of us here at Kauai Sea Riders are anxiously awaiting your arrival! Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions we can help answer prior to your adventure!
Mahalo!
Josh Helmin
Owner at Island Activity Group
Address: 3417 Poipu Road - #105, PO BOX 853, Koloa HI 96756
Office: 808.742.7422 Fax: 808.742.9870
Email: whale@islandactivitygroup.com
Where Your Kauai Adventure Begins
Cancellation Policy
24-HOUR CANCELLATION POLICY FOR ALL TOURS
We understand that plans can change unexpectedly, and we strive to offer a fair cancellation policy while ensuring our operations run smoothly. Please review our cancellation terms carefully, as they will be strictly enforced.
Regular Tours
✅ Free Cancellation – Cancellations made at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour check-in time will incur no charges. (Example: If your tour check-in is at 8:30 AM Hawaii time, you must cancel by 8:29 AM the day before to avoid charges.)
❌ Late Cancellation / No-Show – Cancellations made less than 24 hours before check-in or failure to show up for the tour will result in a 100% charge of the tour total. (This is calculated to the minute—if your check-in is at 8:30 AM, you must cancel by 8:29 AM the prior day.)
Private Charters
✅ Free Cancellation – Cancellations made at least 72 hours before your scheduled tour check-in time will incur no charges. (Example: If your check-in is at 8:30 AM Hawaii time, you must cancel by 8:29 AM three days prior to avoid charges.)
❌ Late Cancellation / No-Show – Cancellations made less than 72 hours before check-in or failure to show up will result in a 100% charge of the tour total. (Again, this is calculated to the minute.)
Plan Ahead - Arrive On Time
Our meeting location is the furthest west in the town of Kekaha. During peak travel seasons, traffic congestion can cause unexpected delays. It is 100% the guest's responsibility to plan accordingly.
🚗 Allow Extra Travel Time – If Google Maps estimates a 1-hour drive, we strongly recommend planning for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes to ensure timely arrival.
Additional Important Details
⚠️ Late Arrivals – if you arrive after the tour has started and accommodating you would disrupt the experience for on-time guests, it will be considered a same-day cancellation, and no refunds will be issued.
⚠️ Opting Out at Check-In – If you arrive at the boat and decide not to participate (for any reason), this will be treated as a same-day cancellation, and no refunds will be issued.
By booking with us, you acknowledge that you have read and agreed to these terms. This policy is clearly stated at the time of booking, in your confirmation email, and in a reminder email sent before your tour.
Minimum Tour Requirements
Some of our tours require a minimum number of guests to operate (either 4 or 6 guests depending on the tour). If your tour has not met the required minimum, our reservations team will make every effort to confirm the tour and will contact you with available options should it not meet the minimum guest requirement.
Thank you for your understanding—we look forward to providing you with an unforgettable adventure!
