Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: Is this trip good for everyone?

A: Most of our trips are great for the whole family. Our Lana'i tour is better suited for adults and children over the age of 4 who are healthy and have a sense of adventure! Please call us to discuss if you have any anyone in your group with back or neck injuries/problems. To participate in snorkeling, you must know how to swim. At all snorkeling destinations you will not be able to touch the bottom.

 

Q: What's the difference between this boat and a raft?

A: Kaiao is fast, fun, and comfortable, with seating that features cushions and backrests for everyone. No need to be stuck on a bouncy tube for a hours! With its heavier displacement she cuts through the water rather than bouncing off the top of small waves like rafts. The deck is spacious, giving everyone more space to move around comfortably. Kaiao also features an open transom with swim platform, swim stairs for easy ocean access, freshwater shower and top of the line snorkeling gear. As a "small boat" it is also an adventure boat- please come prepared to possibly have a splashy ride.

 

Q: Where do you take us snorkeling?

A: This depends on the tour you choose. We want you to have the best experience possible, so our experienced captains and crew will take you to the best snorkeling spots in that area depending on the weather and sea conditions. 

 

Q: Will we see dolphins?

A: There is a great possibility of seeing dolphins, especially on our Lana'i tour. The Hawaiian name for dolphins is Nai'a. 90% of the time, we see at least 1 of 3 types of Hawaiian dolphins- Spinner Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, and the elusive Spotted Dolphins. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee wildlife sightings.

 

Q: I'm travelling with a large group of people. What is the best option for us?

A: If you're traveling with a large group- whether it be family, friends, or co-workers, treat yourself to the extra special experience of a private boat. Give us a call so we can help you organize a fun and memorable adventure! 808-495-1001.

 

Q: Is there a bathroom on the boat?

A: Unfortunately, there is no bathroom onboard. 

 

Q: Will I get cold while swimming?

A: Hawaiian waters range from 73-78 F year-round. Most guests spend anywhere from 20-40 minutes in the water at each snorkel stop. We recommend bringing a jacket or a sweater for the ride back if you get cold easily. We do not have wetsuit rentals at this time, if you desire one, you can rent one from the snorkel store or boss frogs.

 

Q: What should I bring?

A: A towel, reef safe sunscreen(no spray types), windbreaker/light jacket, sunglasses/hat, sun protective clothing such as rash guard, reusable water bottle, cash for gratuity and a camera if you wish. We recommend wearing your swimwear, but if you decide not to- don't forget it! In an effort to keep plastic out of our oceans, we provide a 5-gallon jug of ice cold water for you to refill your reuseable water bottles or use the provided paper cups. 

 

Q: What if the weather is bad?

A: Our captain's first priority is your safety and comfort. If deemed unsafe by our captains, we offer rescheduling or full refund options. 

 

Q: Do you provide prescription masks?

A: If you require a prescription mask, we recommend stopping by a snorkel store to pick up a rental prior to coming on the trip. They will help fit you with the perfect prescription that will allow you to fully enjoy the wonders below the surface.

 

Q: How do you clean the snorkeling gear?

A: We love it when people ask this question because we truly care about your overall experience. Our snorkeling gear is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and inspected after each and every trip the same way we clean our dishes at home. This handwashing method also gives us the chance to check our gear daily so that we know that we are providing you with well maintained, fresh, high quality gear from the masks and snorkels down to the fins. Additional to washing, all gear is disinfected and sanitized using a hospital grade Steramine solution. 

 

Q: What is the cancellation policy?

A: For a full, 100% refund, cancellations or changes must be made 48-hours prior to the start of the trip. For groups of 6+, cancellations or changes must be made 72 hours prior to the start of the trip. Cancellations or changes to private charters must be made a minimum of 1 week prior to the start of the trip.

​

Makai Adventures reserves the right to cancel tours due to bad weather, mechanical failure, or the minimum number of passengers not met.

For questions or concerns, give us a call at 808-495-1001. Mahalo!