Napali Catamaran or Captain Andy's

Question

We will be there at the end of April. We are staying on both the north shore and south shore. I'm struggling to decide between Napali Snorkeling tours from Captain Andy's (Star Snorkle BBQ Sail) and Napali Catamaran (Afternoon Sightseeing & Snorkeling). The boat and food on Captain Andy's seem better but the shorter travel distance from Hanalei and the afternoon option from Napali Catamaran are nice. Any opinions?

Answer

Both Captain Andy’s and Napali Catamaran offer fantastic experiences for exploring the Napali Coast, and each has its own unique advantages. It sounds like you're trying to balance a few key factors—boat quality, food, travel time, and timing—so here’s a detailed comparison of both options to help you decide:

Captain Andy's - Star Snorkel BBQ Sail: This tour is known for its excellent service and high-quality boat experience. The boat is spacious, with amenities that include a BBQ lunch or dinner depending on the tour time, and snorkeling gear. Captain Andy’s crew is very experienced and often provides a great mix of fun, history, and the chance to see marine life up close. They also cater well to guests looking to enjoy both sightseeing and snorkeling. However, the downside is that the boat departs from the south shore, which might require extra travel time if you're staying on the north shore.
Napali Catamaran - Afternoon Sightseeing & Snorkeling: This option offers the advantage of being much closer to the north shore, especially if you’re staying around Hanalei. The travel distance from your accommodation is much shorter, which means more time spent enjoying the views instead of on the boat getting there. Their afternoon option can be great for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the sunset towards the end of the tour, but they don’t offer the same meal service as Captain Andy’s, so that could be a factor if you’re looking for a more substantial food experience. They still provide excellent snorkeling and sightseeing experiences, but the boat is typically smaller than Captain Andy’s, so space might feel a little tighter.

Here’s a breakdown to help you make your decision:

For a more luxurious experience with better food and amenities: Captain Andy’s is a great choice. The BBQ Sail adds a fun element to the tour, and their boat tends to be more comfortable and spacious, with plenty of options for both sightseeing and snorkeling. However, the added travel time from the north shore might be a consideration for you.
For a shorter travel distance, more relaxed afternoon tour, and great views: Napali Catamaran is a good option. The shorter travel time from Hanalei and the afternoon departure can be appealing if you prefer a less intense schedule or want to catch the sunset from the boat. It’s a great choice for those who don’t mind a slightly smaller boat and prefer a lighter, more laid-back experience.

Ultimately, it comes down to whether you prioritize a more leisurely trip with less travel time (Napali Catamaran) or a more luxurious boat experience with a meal and a bit more comfort (Captain Andy’s). Either way, you're in for an unforgettable experience along one of Hawaii’s most stunning coastlines!