Hawaii Island-Hopping Adventure
United States Small Ship Cruises
Explore the Pacific archipelago islands of Molokai, Lana’i, Maui & Hawai’i
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from$5595 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
Aloha! Made up entirely of islands and on its own time zone, Hawaii gives you permission to get lost in paradise! Slow down to the Hawaiian pace-of-life, and cruise to some of the most impressive spots in this Pacific archipelago.
Designed to get you off the boat and into nature, this week-long adventure cruise, jam-packed with activities, will find you island-hopping between four islands - Molokai, Lana’i, Maui, and Hawaii (aka The Big Island). From hiking to snorkeling, you’ll soon discover that what lies above the water is as captivating as what lies below.
Away from crowds, your expert guides and local naturalists will show you an untouched side of Hawaii, interwoven with fascinating culture, folklore, and natural history. The small group focus encourages you to have fun and get out and explore!
Soul-stirring, effortlessly beautiful, and distinctly unique, Hawaii will allow you to find aloha ʻāina - a new perspective, a love of the land, and that which nourishes you.
Highlights
- Explore two National Historic Parks with a ranger
- Hike Hualalai Volcano to craters, lava tubes and fissures
- Talk history and culture in Halawa Cathedral Valley
- Traditional pa‘ina (feast) and Hawaiian jam session with Molokai locals
- Whales, dolphins, and marine life in Humpback National Marine Sanctuary
- Snorkel coral gardens rich with marine life
- Night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta Rays
- Sweetheart Rock and high sea cliffs of Lana’i
- Swim with sea turtles along the Olowalu coast
- Kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, and skiff rides
- Small boat, small groups, small footprint
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Itinerary
The planned itinerary is subject to change due to nautical, technical, or meteorological reasons and other unforeseen circumstances. The captain reserves the right to change the route in view of your safety, even with no advance notice.
Molokai to Hawaiʻi (The Big Island)
Day 1: Molokai - Arrival
Day 2: Molokai
Day 3: Lana’i
Day 4: Maui
Day 5: Maui - Lahaina Town
Day 6: Kona Coast & Manta Ray snorkel
Day 7: Big Island
Day 8: Hawai’i - Kona - DepartureDay 1: Molokai
Welcome to Hawaii! You’ll be transferred to the hospitality area on Molokai. Later, the captain and crew will greet you with smiles and champagne as you board the awaiting Safari Explorer. This evening, settle in and enjoy dinner aboard the yacht, before a presentation about your week ahead. (D)Day 2: Molokai
A warm ‘aloha’ spirit gives you a sense of the Hawaii of long ago. No stoplights, no high-rises, just a welcome slower pace. As you “Talk story” (a Hawaiian term for chatting) with the locals, you will experience their land and traditions as few visitors do. You’ll hear legends and lore, take in a cultural lesson in taro patches and poi making, or hike to a towering waterfall in Halawa’s Cathedral Valley - one of the island’s most historic places. At the Molokai Museum, discover the history of this ancient homeland as you enjoy an evening pa‘ina (feast), complete with a home-style Hawaiian jam session. (BLD)Day 3: Lana‘i
Today will find you deep into the solace and serenity offered by Lanai, Hawaii’s smallest inhabited island. Thousand-foot sea cliffs line the shore and ancient volcanic plugs sit both above and below the water’s surface, host to a wide diversity of marine life. You will want to grab a snorkel, paddleboard, or kayak and get right into it. There's also a bike excursion on offer for those that prefer. Sweetheart Rock, a sea stack jutting 80 feet above the crashing surf, is worth the hike. Legend has it that two young lovers, Pehe and Makakehau, story ended tragically here. The quaint Lana’i Culture and Heritage Center informs of the local history and inspires active stewardship of Lanai's heritage and natural history. (BLD)Day 4: Maui
"The Valley Isle" is on the agenda today so nicknamed for the great valley that lies between its two major volcanoes. Snorkeling among coral gardens, you discover a world teeming with underwater life and a known sea turtle habitat. The marine sanctuary located between Lana’i, Molokai, and Maui provides front-row seats as you cruise through these productive breeding grounds searching for dolphins, whales, and other marine life. (BLD)Day 5: Maui - Lahaina Town
You get to decide on your adventure today. Explore Lahaina Town, with its historic buildings, art galleries, and oceanside boardwalk, go kayaking or paddleboarding or perhaps take a surfing lesson. Enjoy your adventures and come home with stories to swap over dinner. (BLD)Day 6: Kona Coast & Manta Ray Snorkel
Snorkel, kayak, or swim - From the tiniest fish to the widest stretch of coral, it’s all spectacular. Depending on the weather and your mood, spend the day in the water or let us do the work, and explore the rugged coastline on a skiff ride. This evening you'll anchor at an offshore location to search for and night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta rays. This award-winning excursion offers snorkelers the opportunity to observe these majestic animals up close and personal. Marine life is often within inches, offering a unique experience with wild animals in their environment. Strict guidelines are followed to lessen any disturbance of these beautiful creatures. (BLD)Day 7: Big Island
Head 6,500 feet up Hualalai Volcano above the Kona Coast on a long hike up the cool and misty slopes, complete with natural history interpretation by a local naturalist guide. A longer hike features dryland native forest & lava tubes. You can peer into a pit crater from its edge and if you are up for it, you can even go inside a lava tube. A shorter option boasts views of craters, fissures, and lava tubes. Recharge and fuel up with lunch at a coffee plantation on the mountain. For your final afternoon, relax onboard the boat or go for one last dip. This evening, you will celebrate with the Captain’s Dinner and a photographic recap of your adventure. (BLD)Day 8: Hawai‘i
The Safari Explorer docks at Kailua - Kona Pier, where you’ll be transferred to the Kona Airport or onwards to your extended stay. (B)Hawaiʻi (The Big Island) to Molokai
Day 1: Hawai'i - Kona - Arrival
Day 2: Big Island
Day 3: Kona Coast & Manta Ray snorkel
Day 4: Maui - Lahaina Town
Day 5: Maui
Day 6: Lana'i
Day 7: Molokai
Day 8: Molokai - Departure* Itinerary details are the same as the Molokai to Hawai'i (Big Island) tour direction.
Be sure to check out our hiking and walking tours, or look at our small boat cruises, specials, and news.
Map
Boats
- Safari Explorer
Premium Class Yacht
Sailing exclusively around the islands of Hawaii throughout the year, the Safari Explorer is designed to reach wild areas where big ships can’t. Lovingly called “the Bulldog”, the performance-built rugged construction and maneuverability of this boutique yacht means access to faraway regions. Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights in selected cabin
- Onboard meals
- Onboard spirits, wine, beer, non-alcoholic beverages
- Transfers & baggage handling between airport/vessel
- Onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts
- Entry fees to parks/preserves
- All from-the-vessel activities & equipment
- Wellness amenities: fitness equipment & yoga mats
What’s Not Included
- Travel to/from the start/finish
- Excursions not mentioned in the itinerary
- Port taxes/fees
- Gratuities
- No onboard wifi
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates & Pricing
Season 1: January, February, March, April, & May 2023
Season 2: November, and December 2023Saturday departures
Molokai to Hawaiʻi (Big Island)
January 7 & 21, February 4 & 18, March 4 & 18, April 1, 15 & 29, November 25, and December 9 & 23, 2023Hawaiʻi (Big Island) to Molokai
January 14 & 28, February 11 & 25, March 11 & 25, April 8 & 22, May 6, November 18 and December 2, 16 & 30, 2023Season 1 Season 2 Navigator cabin $ 9419 £ 5039 $ 8,444 € 5867 ₪ 23107 ¥ 878657 NZ$ 10379 NOK 68891 kr 68328 $ 6,200 $ 10331 £ 5527 $ 9,261 € 6435 ₪ 25344 ¥ 963688 NZ$ 11384 NOK 75558 kr 74940 $ 6,800 Trailblazer cabin $ 10331 £ 5527 $ 9,261 € 6435 ₪ 25344 ¥ 963688 NZ$ 11384 NOK 75558 kr 74940 $ 6,800 $ 11242 £ 6014 $ 10,078 € 7003 ₪ 27580 ¥ 1048719 NZ$ 12388 NOK 82225 kr 81553 $ 7,400 Admiral cabin $ 12154 £ 6502 $ 10,895 € 7571 ₪ 29816 ¥ 1133750 NZ$ 13393 NOK 88892 kr 88165 $ 8,000 $ 13217 £ 7071 $ 11,849 € 8233 ₪ 32425 ¥ 1232954 NZ$ 14564 NOK 96670 kr 95880 $ 8,700 Junior Commodore cabin $ 13217 £ 7071 $ 11,849 € 8233 ₪ 32425 ¥ 1232954 NZ$ 14564 NOK 96670 kr 95880 $ 8,700 $ 14584 £ 7802 $ 13,075 € 9085 ₪ 35779 ¥ 1360500 NZ$ 16071 NOK 106670 kr 105798 $ 9,600 Commodore cabin $ 15496 £ 8290 $ 13,892 € 9652 ₪ 38015 ¥ 1445532 NZ$ 17076 NOK 113337 kr 112411 $ 10,200 $ 17167 £ 9184 $ 15,390 € 10693 ₪ 42115 ¥ 1601422 NZ$ 18917 NOK 125559 kr 124533 $ 11,300 Single (Navigator) cabin $ 10483 £ 5608 $ 9,397 € 6530 ₪ 25716 ¥ 977860 NZ$ 11551 NOK 76669 kr 76043 $ 6,900 $ 15496 £ 8290 $ 13,892 € 9652 ₪ 38015 ¥ 1445532 NZ$ 17076 NOK 113337 kr 112411 $ 10,200
Charter On request On request Port fees/taxes (add to above price) $ 570 £ 305 $ 511 € 355 ₪ 1398 ¥ 53145 NZ$ 628 NOK 4167 kr 4133 $ 375 $ 570 £ 305 $ 511 € 355 ₪ 1398 ¥ 53145 NZ$ 628 NOK 4167 kr 4133 $ 375 Season 1: January, February, March, April, & May 2024
Season 2: November, and December 2024Saturday departures
Molokai to Hawaiʻi (Big Island)
January 6 & 20, February 3 & 17, March 2, 16 & 30, and April 13 & 27, November 16 & 30, December 14 & 28, 2024Hawaiʻi (Big Island) to Molokai
January 13 & 27, February 10 & 24, March 9 & 23, April 6 & 20, May 4, November 23, December 7 & 21, 2024Season 1 Season 2 Navigator cabin $ 10331 £ 5527 $ 9,261 € 6435 ₪ 25344 ¥ 963688 NZ$ 11384 NOK 75558 kr 74940 $ 6,800 $ 12002 £ 6421 $ 10,759 € 7476 ₪ 29443 ¥ 1119579 NZ$ 13225 NOK 87780 kr 87063 $ 7,900 Trailblazer cabin $ 11242 £ 6014 $ 10,078 € 7003 ₪ 27580 ¥ 1048719 NZ$ 12388 NOK 82225 kr 81553 $ 7,400 $ 13065 £ 6989 $ 11,713 € 8138 ₪ 32052 ¥ 1218782 NZ$ 14397 NOK 95558 kr 94778 $ 8,600 Admiral cabin $ 13217 £ 7071 $ 11,849 € 8233 ₪ 32425 ¥ 1232954 NZ$ 14564 NOK 96670 kr 95880 $ 8,700 $ 15496 £ 8290 $ 13,892 € 9652 ₪ 38015 ¥ 1445532 NZ$ 17076 NOK 113337 kr 112411 $ 10,200 Junior Commodore cabin $ 14584 £ 7802 $ 13,075 € 9085 ₪ 35779 ¥ 1360500 NZ$ 16071 NOK 106670 kr 105798 $ 9,600 $ 17015 £ 9103 $ 15,254 € 10599 ₪ 41742 ¥ 1587251 NZ$ 18750 NOK 124448 kr 123431 $ 11,200 Commodore cabin $ 17167 £ 9184 $ 15,390 € 10693 ₪ 42115 ¥ 1601422 NZ$ 18917 NOK 125559 kr 124533 $ 11,300 $ 20053 £ 10728 $ 17,977 € 12491 ₪ 49197 ¥ 1870688 NZ$ 22098 NOK 146671 kr 145473 $ 13,200 Single (Navigator) cabin $ 15496 £ 8290 $ 13,892 € 9652 ₪ 38015 ¥ 1445532 NZ$ 17076 NOK 113337 kr 112411 $ 10,200 $ 18079 £ 9671 $ 16,207 € 11261 ₪ 44351 ¥ 1686454 NZ$ 19921 NOK 132226 kr 131146 $ 11,900 Charter On request On request Port fees/taxes (add to above price) $ 570 £ 305 $ 511 € 355 ₪ 1398 ¥ 53145 NZ$ 628 NOK 4167 kr 4133 $ 375 $ 570 £ 305 $ 511 € 355 ₪ 1398 ¥ 53145 NZ$ 628 NOK 4167 kr 4133 $ 375 A 25% deposit based on the cabin price is required at booking.
Triple rates are available in designated cabins (refer to deck plan). On request.Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
The cruise has been designed to accommodate a variety of fitness levels. Whether you are looking to take it easy or are up for a challenge, there is something for everyone. Unless the boat is cruising part of the day, there are active adventure options scheduled most mornings and afternoons. Your onboard guides will advise what activities are offered daily and will work to include everyone. Kayaking excursions take the form of guided paddles that can last 1-4 hours and open paddling at your own pace. Hiking ranges from rigorous treks over rugged terrain for the fit to easy strolls along the beach. Inflatable skiff rides require you to sit back and relax, with little to no effort needed. Paddleboarding and snorkeling (if offered) are at your own pace. Morning yoga classes cater to all levels and relaxing in the hot tub is as for well everyone.
Airport Info
Fly into/out Molokai Airport (MKK) or Kona International Airport (KOA) located on Hawaii, the Big Island, depending on your tour direction.
Molokai to Hawai’i
On embarkation day (Day 1) your flight into Molokai should arrive no later than 2:00 pm. On disembarkation day (Day 8) your flight from Hawai’i The Big Island (Kona) should leave no earlier than 12:00 pm.Hawai’i to Molokai
On embarkation day (Day 1) your flight into Hawai’i The Big Island should arrive no later than 2:00 pm. On disembarkation day (Day 8) your flight from Molokai should leave no earlier than 12:00 pm.”Local Travel
Transfers to/from Molokai/Kona Airports are included in the tour price.
Climate
A tropical climate ensures that Hawaii is a year-round holiday destination. Trade winds from the northeast keep temperatures and humidity moderate. As a gauge, the average winter temperature is around 79F (26C) with summer around 85F (29C). The biggest variables are rain and surf conditions. Water is warm enough to swim in all year round, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as snorkeling. The hot season (called kau in Hawaiian) runs from June to October and the relatively cool season (hooilo) from December to March. The ‘green’ or wet season is typically from November to March, with the dry season from April through to October. In terms of wildlife viewing, the green season brings back Humpback Whales and Hawaii’s state bird, the Nene. There is a better chance of seeing Giant Pacific Manta Rays from February through April, with dolphins, whale sharks, and Green Sea Turtles a common occurrence all year round.
Day of Rest
Any day can be a day of rest!
Recommended
Wetsuits:
As the average ocean temperatures are typically mid-70-80 °F during the fall/winter months, we do not have wetsuits on board. However, you are welcome to bring your own. Wetsuits are provided by a local vendor only for our night snorkel with Giant Pacific Manta Rays.
Dress code:
The dress code is very casual throughout the entire cruise. Since there are a variety of water sports available, it is fine to wear your swimsuit in the dining room with an appropriate cover-up. No formal wear is required at any time.
Seasickness:
We will be cruising on the leeward (west and south) side of the islands where it is generally calmer (trade winds and rougher water tends to be on the windward - east and north - sides of each island). Seasickness medication is kept onboard all of our boats, however, it is not recommended for children. If you are prone to seasickness or traveling with children, you should consult your physician prior to your departure. The captain will update you when there might be extra motion so you can take the medication in time to be effective.
Mosquitoes:
Can be more prevalent during the wet, winter months in dense, wooded areas. It won’t be a problem while on the boat. However, insect repellent is recommended prior to hiking on some of the islands.
Charters:
If you have a large group and would like to charter an entire boat, please contact us for available dates and boats. In addition to the scheduled dates listed (please see pricing), further dates may be available on request. All dates are subject to availability at the time of booking. Itineraries can be customized to suit your individual needs and as safety and operational constraints allow. Please send us your preferred destination, dates, boat, and the number of people (adults and children under 13) in your party, and we will work on providing you with the best available options! The relevant charter terms and conditions will apply.Remarks
A variety of activities are included in this tour.
Hiking:
A range of hikes - of varying difficulty and terrain - are available throughout your tour, ranging from easy strolls to rugged climbs. On Lana’i, walk on sea cliffs near Sweetheart Rock, a sea stack high above the crashing surf, or take a two-and-a-half-mile track through a lush valley to a waterfall. A good pair of hiking boots is recommended. Hiking poles are available.
Kayaking and paddleboarding:
The small ship is stocked with paddleboards and tandem sea kayaks. Open paddle at your own pace or join a short guided paddle to a planned destination lasting one to four hours. It is a great way to get up close to wildlife and explore the area.
Skiff rides:
Take a small inflatable boat ride and discover the surrounding area. Your skiff captains are pros and offer insights into the history, geology, and ecology of the islands as they show you volcanic plugs, sea stacks, and lava tubes. Minimal effort is required.
Learning about Hawaiin culture: Members of the Solatorio family welcome you to the ancient Halawa Valley, where they live, farm, hunt, and fish. “Talk story” with them, then pound fresh taro into poi, or hike to a climactic waterfall in one of Molokai’s most historic places. Round out the day with an evening pa‘ina (feast) and a Hawaiian jam session.
Snorkel:
Gear up with a snorkel and flippers, and duck below the surface to discover coral gardens teeming with underwater life. Spot yellow tangs and butterflyfish in sheltered volcanic bays. Along the coast of Olowalu, mingle with friendly green sea turtles getting their shells cleaned by local fish nibbling away at built-up algae. Snorkel and flippers are available on board
Visit wildlife sanctuaries and national parks:
Hawaii’s public lands (and waters) protect a wild array of fascinating places and creatures. Hike the misty slopes of a volcano, walk to centuries-old petroglyphs carved into lava rock, and scan the horizon for humpbacks in one of the world’s most important whale habitats.Important to know
Covid-19
You will require a Covid-19 booster shot in order to sail.
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements, and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
For US citizens, documents for travel to/from Hawaii are the same for any other U.S. state.
For Non-U.S. citizens a passport is required. Please research documentation and visas needed to enter the United States of America.
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by UnCruise Adventures.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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