Hawaiian Seascapes Cruise
This unique 8-day, 4-island itinerary offers discovery of Hawaii's rich traditions and natural wonders, including a thrilling night snorkel. Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean aboard the 36-guest Safari Explorer adventure yacht.

Discover Hawaii in a new way via this 8-day small yacht cruise in America’s very own paradise, the Hawaiian Islands. This unique 4-island Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary enables authentic experiences of Hawaii’s rich traditions and spectacular natural wonders.
From the 36-guest Safari Explorer, watch for humpback whales off Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. Explore the naturally pristine areas that can only be accessed by sea. Experience traditional Hawaiian history and culture at the Molokai Museum, including a musical jam session, while exploring the islands with an intimate group of like-minded travelers.
This active Hawaii cruise itinerary includes time for snorkeling among coral gardens and a sea turtle habitat, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and skiff tours. There’s even an opportunity to snorkel at night with Giant Pacific Manta rays. Land opportunities include hiking in lush forest up volcanos. If you are seeking a unique Hawaii snorkel cruise, this is it! Each evening, slip into a different sheltered harbor or inlet for exploration and enjoy a splendid dinner on board. As the sun sets, a fragrant breeze emerges and the coconut palms sway on the nearby shore…
With tens of millions visiting the Hawaiian Islands each year, being 1 of 36 on this small ship cruise offers a unique, exclusive experience. Dare to be different and explore Hawaii’s untouched, remote lands by small ship cruise.
Read on for details about this trip, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s Hawaiian Island cruises.
Hawaiian Seascapes Itinerary
The 8-day Hawaii Seascapes Cruise begins in Molokai, explores the islands of Lana’i and Maui and Hawaii before ending at Kona Harbor, Hawaii (Big Island).
Welcome to Hawaii! Be transferred to a hospitality suite on Molokai for a warm aloha. Later, be greeted by the captain and crew with smiles and champagne as you board your awaiting ship. This evening, settle in and enjoy dinner aboard the yacht, before a presentation about the week ahead.
A warm Aloha spirit gives the sense of Hawaii long ago. No stop lights, no high-rises, just a welcome slower pace. “Talk story” with locals and experience their land and traditions as few visitors ever do. Hear legends and lore, then take in cultural lessons 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. This evening, enjoy a pa’ina (feast), complete with a home-style Hawaiian jam session.
Embark on an unforgettable trip to the captivating seascapes of Hawaii. Your day may include a kayaking adventure along Maui’s hidden coves, paddling through turquoise waters, and discovering the untouched beauty of its coastline. Transition to Lana’i, where kayaking takes you to remote areas between the cerulean ocean and lush greenery. You may cruise along Moloka’i’s dramatic northern cliffs, experiencing the awe-inspiring vista of soaring precipices and an occasional frolicking dolphin. As the day unfolds, enjoy cruising for critters and charismatic sea life from the top deck, savoring one of your ship’s signature drinks while expert naturalist guides introduce you to the rich marine life and bird species that call these waters home. Today, each experience you choose is a brushstroke on the canvas of your memory, showcasing the beauty that makes Hawaii’s seascapes truly extraordinary.
Gear up for a day of play on the “Private Island.” Snorkel far away from the crowds this morning along the coastline of Lana’i. Thousand-foot sea cliffs line the shore and ancient volcanic plugs sit both above and below the water surface as host to a wide diversity of marine life. Suit your fancy and the weather: Explore Lanai village, hike, or take a bike excursion.
Today, snorkel among coral gardens teeming with underwater life and a known sea turtle habitat. The Humpback National 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. Look above and below the surface.
This morning, join a rocky hike up the cool and misty slopes of Hualālai Volcano. Explore a private trail at 6,500ft above the Kona coast with your own naturalist guide. Cross surreal scenes of black lava flows, pass pit craters and stroll through native dryland forest. You’ll discover a lava tube and learn how lava flows from the early 19th century re-shaped the coastline below you.
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.
Kealakekua Cove, known as a premier snorkeling and kayaking destination in the Hawaiian Islands, is also the historic site of the Cook Monument, marking where Captain Cook met his end in February 1779. Here, you can encounter vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles and possibly dolphins. Enjoy these activities in this picturesque bay before departing after lunch. In the afternoon, set off on a marine mammal search, potentially taking you to the remote South Point area.
After one more Hawai’ian breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the Kona Airport or to your optional extended hotel stay.
Included
Accommodations aboard vessel; onboard meals; premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines); non-alcoholic beverages; transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embarkation/disembarkation day; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-vessel activities and equipment; exclusive activities and shore visits; wellness amenities; presentations by onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts; taxes and port fees.
Exclusions
Airfare to and from your home city; discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew; travel insurance and insurance of any kind; optional excursions and land tours; excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
For bookings made on or after October 1, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
121 days or more – 50% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 50% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
For bookings made up to September 30, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 days or more – 100% of deposit (transferable to a Future Travel Certificate)
90 to 61 days – 67% of total trip cost
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Hawaiian Seascapes cruise begins in Molokai, Hawaii (MKK), and ends on the Big Island, Hawaii (KOA). Plan flights to arrive to Molokai by 3:30pm on Day 1 of the itinerary. Plan flights to depart the Big Island no earlier than 12:00pm on Day 8.
Activities
Whether you are looking for moderate activity or vigorous, extended and challenging outdoor pursuits, the crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks and wildlife observation. Limited quantities of hiking poles and binoculars are available on board. To ensure availability and fit, we encourage you to bring your own gear.
Room Configuration
In addition to any listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.
Families & Children
Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
Reverse Hawaiian Seascapes Itinerary
The 8-day Hawaii Seascapes Cruise operating in reverse begins in Kona Harbor, Hawaii (Big Island) and then explores the islands of Maui and Lana’i before ending at Molokai.
Welcome to Hawaii! Be transferred to the hospitality area to gather with fellow travelers and meet your expedition leader. Later, the captain and crew greet you with smiles and champagne as you board your awaiting ship. This evening, settle in and enjoy dinner aboard the yacht, before a presentation about your week ahead.
Kealakekua Cove, known as a premier snorkeling and kayaking destination in the Hawaiian Islands, is also the historic site of the Cook Monument, marking where Captain Cook met his end in February 1779. Here, you can encounter vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles and possibly dolphins. Enjoy these activities in this picturesque bay before departing after lunch. In the afternoon, set off on a marine mammal search, potentially taking you to the remote South Point area.
This morning, join a rocky hike up the cool and misty slopes of Hualālai Volcano. Explore a private trail at 6,500ft above the Kona coast with your own naturalist guide. Cross surreal scenes of black lava flows, pass pit craters and stroll through native dryland forest. You’ll discover a lava tube and learn how lava flows from the early 19th century re-shaped the coastline below you.
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.
Today, snorkel among coral gardens teeming with underwater life and a known sea turtle habitat. The Humpback National 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. Look above and below the surface.
Gear up for a day of play on the “Private Island.” Snorkel far away from the crowds this morning along the coastline of Lana’i. Thousand-foot sea cliffs line the shore and ancient volcanic plugs sit both above and below the water surface as host to a wide diversity of marine life. Suit your fancy and the weather: Explore Lanai village, hike, or take a bike excursion.
Embark on an unforgettable trip to the captivating seascapes of Hawaii. Your day may include a kayaking adventure along Maui’s hidden coves, paddling through turquoise waters, and discovering the untouched beauty of its coastline. Transition to Lana’i, where kayaking takes you to remote areas between the cerulean ocean and lush greenery. You may cruise along Moloka’i’s dramatic northern cliffs, experiencing the awe-inspiring vista of soaring precipices and an occasional frolicking dolphin. As the day unfolds, enjoy cruising for critters and charismatic sea life from the top deck, savoring one of your ship’s signature drinks while expert naturalist guides introduce you to the rich marine life and bird species that call these waters home. Today, each experience you choose is a brushstroke on the canvas of your memory, showcasing the beauty that makes Hawaii’s seascapes truly extraordinary.
A warm Aloha spirit gives the sense of Hawaii long ago. No stop lights, no high-rises, just a welcome slower pace. “Talk story” with locals and experience their land and traditions as few visitors ever do. Hear legends and lore, then take in cultural lessons 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. This evening, enjoy a pa’ina (feast), complete with a home-style Hawaiian jam session.
After one more Hawai’ian breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the Molokai Airport or to your optional extended hotel stay.
Included
Accommodations aboard vessel; onboard meals; premium wine, beer and liquor (excludes super-premium wines); non-alcoholic beverages; transfers and baggage handling between airport/vessel on embarkation/disembarkation day; entry fees to national parks/preserves; all from-the-vessel activities and equipment; exclusive activities and shore visits; wellness amenities; presentations by onboard expedition/heritage guides and guest experts; taxes and port fees.
Exclusions
Airfare to and from your home city; discretionary gratuities to vessel’s crew; travel insurance and insurance of any kind; optional excursions and land tours; excess baggage charges; items of a personal nature.
Payment & Cancellation
For bookings made on or after October 1, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 120 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
121 days or more – 50% of deposit
120 to 91 days – 50% of total trip cost
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
For bookings made up to September 30, 2025
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 20% of total trip cost is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
91 days or more – 100% of deposit (transferable to a Future Travel Certificate)
90 to 61 days – 67% of total trip cost
60 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations’ Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The Reverse Hawaii Seascapes Cruise begins on the Big Island, Hawaii (KOA) and ends in Molokai, Hawaii (MKK). Plan flights to arrive to the Big Island by 2:00pm on Day 1 of the reverse itinerary. Plan flights to depart Molokai no earlier than 10:00am on Day 8 of the reverse itinerary.
Activities
Whether you are looking for moderate activity or vigorous, extended and challenging outdoor pursuits, the crew can tailor most any expedition to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include whale watching, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, morning yoga and stretching, land treks and wildlife observation. Limited quantities of hiking poles and binoculars are available on board. To ensure availability and fit, we encourage you to bring your own gear.
Room Configuration
In addition to any listed Single cabin rates, select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy at 150-175% of the per-person listed rate; special triple-occupancy rates may also be available in select cabins. Call AdventureSmith for more details, as availability and rates vary by ship and cabin category.
Families & Children
Kids 8 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 7 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval. Save $500 per child, ages 8 to 17, with the exception of holiday departures.
Travel Insurance
Protect your travel investment with insurance. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The motor yacht Safari Explorer embodies an ambiance of refinement and relaxation, with just 36 guests. Her crew of 14-15 takes care of passengers’ every need. The performance-built Safari Explorer primarily cruises the Hawaiian Islands and Alaska's Inside Passage and is notably one of the few vessels in her well-loved fleet that operates trans-Pacific voyages twice each year, spending the North American summer/fall in Alaska, and the winter/spring in Hawaii.
Why Sail Aboard Safari Explorer
Choose the Safari Explorer if you are seeking a small ship that feels like a yacht. She has upscale appointments and a yacht-like atmosphere but still feels spacious, comfortable and welcoming. Expect as much activity as you wish, with the amenities you would expect from a much larger ship, including windows in every cabin (no portholes). AdventureSmith's founder, Todd Smith, has always called this ship the quintessential expedition ship: "I always say that once you cruise aboard the Safari Explorer, you will be hooked on small ships forever."
She is applauded by our team as being the Goldilocks of small ships; not too big, not too small, but just the right size. She continually receives rave reviews from AdventureSmith Explorations' staff and clients. While the cabins and common areas make for an incredibly comfortable basecamp, it is her service, active itineraries and cuisine that stand out the most.
AdventureSmith Explorations has been aboard the Safari Explorer firsthand, and can help you compare this with other ships offering Alaska small ship cruises, Hawaiian Island cruises, U.S. cruises, Canada cruises and Pacific Northwest cruises. Read our dedicated Safari Explorer Ship Review written by one of our specialists, or consult this page further for a detailed description of the vessel, including ship specs, deck plan, cabin images, photo gallery and current links to all Safari Explorer cruise itineraries, dates and rates.
Common Areas Aboard Safari Explorer
Aboard the yacht, three public decks provide plenty of room for mingling, relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. The salon and lounge provide an inviting space with warm wood accents to be educated by lectures on the environment, wildlife, history and culture of the region. A TV screen drops down from the ceiling to provide visual accompaniment. Local experts are often invited along as special guests to "talk story" and provide insights unavailable to most other visitors. On select departures, onboard expert naturalists and guides are complemented by guest hosts in the fields of ornithology, photography, marine biology, wine and wellness, among others.
Musical instruments, guidebooks and games like mancala further encourage interaction. Large couches and a piano adorn the lounge, adjacent to a full-service bar staffed by a few rotating bartenders. A modest gear and merchandise store is available, as well as a public wash closet on the the aft of the Main Deck interior.
The Bridge Deck features five lounge chairs, four sets of tables and chairs, and abundant space to spread out to embrace the Hawaiian sun or brisk air in Alaska. A separate shaded seating area with table and patio furniture has additional seating for six. This is also where guests can take advantage of the ship's open bridge policy, offering opportunities to chat with the officers and crew and spot marine life from their perch. Please note: Safari Explorer is equipped with limited internet connectivity, to encourage the opportunity to disconnect. Cell phone reception may be available when the ship is in more populated areas; a satellite phone is available (added cost) for emergencies.
Dining Aboard Safari Explorer
The Dining Room, located on the Main Deck, provides a casual atmosphere with open seating that accommodates all guests in one sitting. Meals aboard the Safari Explorer are served over several courses, with particular attention to the personal preferences of diners. Vegetarian dishes are available, as are reduced portions. Other special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.
Executive chefs create exquisite meals, using locally sourced fresh ingredients to reflect the flavors of each destination. Each day includes an early-riser breakfast starting at 6:30am of fresh fruit and squeezed juices, onboard-baked pastries and breads, followed by a full made-to-order breakfast complete with specialty items. Lunches range from pasta salads and sandwiches to homemade soups and ethnic dishes. Elegant plated dinners offer a choice of entrées, including fresh seafood and meats; a split plate is even available for indecisive eaters. Desserts are plentiful, imaginative combinations of tarts, pies, cakes and mousses.
Fine spirits, wines and microbrews are included, as are highly imaginative cocktails of the day, mocktails, rotating drafts and espressos. Hors d'oeuvres for a daily cocktail hour feature a variety of appetizers. Plus filtered water, coffee and hot tea are available for self-serve any time.
Activities Aboard Safari Explorer
Active adventure cruises aboard the Safari Explorer allow freedom to engage in many activities. Two rigid-frame inflatable skiffs operate excursions from this vessel, with each able to hold half the guests aboard along with a few members of the crew. In Alaska, skiffs are primarily used for remote shore landings, and for scenic wildlife cruising. In Hawaii, skiffs are used for accessing marinas throughout the itinerary, and for snorkeling.
A full-beam swim step makes for easy access to the water or kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) from the stern of the vessel. The vessel carries a quiver of kayaks and SUPS, which can be used for guided outings (kayaks only) or open paddle/swim events. Important to note that different kayaks are used depending on where you cruise. In Alaska, sit-inside double kayaks are used, and in Hawaii sit-on-top kayaks are used. Also in Hawaii, the vessel will provide a dedicated snorkel set (mask, snorkel, fins) for use throughout your voyage. You can conveniently store this equipment in the cabin-assigned lockers on the back deck.
There is no guided wellness program offered onboard, but guests can find fitness equipment on the Bridge Deck in the form of weights, benches, elliptical, spin bike, yoga mats and blocks for self-use. A hot tub on the Bridge Deck is filled for cooler-weather Alaska itineraries, and the ship features a mechanized swimsuit dryer for frequent use in Hawaii and hot tub and polar plunge enthusiasts in Alaska. Other features are hiking poles for use and hydrophones for listening to below-surface sounds.
Crew & Guides Aboard Safari Explorer
Aboard Safari Explorer each crew member wears many hats and has the opportunity to hone a variety of skills. This level of variety keeps the crew connected and happy, and provides a cohesive environment. Aboard you'll find a dedicated Expedition Leader as well as multiple guides, bosuns, chefs, a hotel manager and servers who all work together. There is 1 crew member for every 2.5 guests aboard, so there is always someone available to help make your voyage more informative, comfortable and unforgettable. "Well prepared" and "proactive" are common compliments we receive of the staff aboard this ship.
Cabins & Safari Explorer Deck Plan
Safari Explorer features 18 well-appointed cabins. All but 4 cabins are located on the Cabin Deck, featuring an exterior wraparound deck with a sturdy railing to let you soak up the views from any direction. There are 5 stateroom categories aboard the Safari Explorer: 10 Navigator, 2 Trailblazer, 1 Jr. Commodore, 3 Admiral and 2 Commodore Suites. All staterooms feature view windows; king, queen or twin beds (each has a Tempur-Pedic® memory foam mattress); a spacious private ensuite bath with heated tile floor and separated shower and toilet; at least one sitting chair; ample storage space; binoculars for use; flat-screen TV/DVD; iPod docking station; reusable water bottles; hair dryer, bathrobes, conditioning shampoo and body wash; and unique art pieces. View the Safari Explorer deck plan below or contact our crew to find the best cabin for you.
Current Deals on This Trip
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Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
This adventurous motor yacht embodies an ambiance of refinement and relaxation. The Safari Explorer cruises the Hawaiian Islands, Alaska's Inside Passage. and the Gulf of Alaska.
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