A two-hour private sunset cruise from Kawaihae along the Kohala Coast offering snorkeling, whale watching in season, and a shot at the famous green flash. Comfortable, accessible, and geared for photographers and families.
A two-hour private sunset cruise from Kawaihae along the Kohala Coast offering snorkeling, whale watching in season, and a shot at the famous green flash. Comfortable, accessible, and geared for photographers and families.
The boat slips away from Kawaihae Harbor as the sun slides toward the horizon, spray tasting faintly of iron from old lava and salt.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Captain Chad’s Charters · Kawaihae, Hawaii
The boat slips away from Kawaihae Harbor as the sun slides toward the horizon, spray tasting faintly of iron from old lava and salt.
On deck the sky burns low and orange while the Kohala coastline recedes into serrated black lava and pale beaches. Guides point out spinner dolphins cutting the water’s surface; farther offshore a dark back arcs and a humpback exhales steam into the cooling air. The chance of a green flash and the quick hush that follows a sunset make the last half hour cinematic.
The trip moves through living geology — lava flows from the Kohala volcano meeting fringing reefs that host coral gardens and fish. Kawaihae itself is an old Hawaiian port near Puʻukoholā Heiau, a site tied to Kamehameha I’s unification of the islands; the sea here has always been both highway and pantry for local communities.
Practically, this is an easy, two-hour private cruise. Snorkeling is offered before sunset, and basic gear, water and snacks are provided; toilets are on board. Expect light swells and trade-wind chop; dress in layers and bring reef-safe sunscreen. Winter months (Dec–Apr) raise the odds of humpback sightings; summer offers calmer seas and better snorkel visibility.
Plan to arrive early for boarding, secure cameras and valuables, and follow crew safety briefings for wildlife encounters—keeping respectful distance from whales and dolphins. The cruise is accessible to most fitness levels, family-friendly, and ideal for photographers chasing low light, marine life, and that elusive emerald flash as day gives way to night.
Yes — basic snorkeling equipment is provided; staff will help fit masks and advise on reef-safe practices.
Yes — humpback whales are commonly sighted in winter (roughly December–April), but sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Departures are from Kawaihae Harbor and the cruise runs approximately two hours, timed to coincide with sunset.
The tour lists wheelchair accessibility and on-board restrooms, but mobility to board small vessels may require assistance — notify operator in advance for accommodations.
Captain Chad’s Charters operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The boat slips away from Kawaihae Harbor as the sun slides toward the horizon, spray tasting faintly of iron from old lava and salt.
The boat slips away from Kawaihae Harbor as the sun slides toward the horizon, spray tasting faintly of iron from old lava and salt.
On deck the sky burns low and orange while the Kohala coastline recedes into serrated black lava and pale beaches. Guides point out spinner dolphins cutting the water’s surface; farther offshore a dark back arcs and a humpback exhales steam into the cooling air. The chance of a green flash and the quick hush that follows a sunset make the last half hour cinematic.
The trip moves through living geology — lava flows from the Kohala volcano meeting fringing reefs that host coral gardens and fish. Kawaihae itself is an old Hawaiian port near Puʻukoholā Heiau, a site tied to Kamehameha I’s unification of the islands; the sea here has always been both highway and pantry for local communities.
Practically, this is an easy, two-hour private cruise. Snorkeling is offered before sunset, and basic gear, water and snacks are provided; toilets are on board. Expect light swells and trade-wind chop; dress in layers and bring reef-safe sunscreen. Winter months (Dec–Apr) raise the odds of humpback sightings; summer offers calmer seas and better snorkel visibility.
Plan to arrive early for boarding, secure cameras and valuables, and follow crew safety briefings for wildlife encounters—keeping respectful distance from whales and dolphins. The cruise is accessible to most fitness levels, family-friendly, and ideal for photographers chasing low light, marine life, and that elusive emerald flash as day gives way to night.