Get away from the huge crowds on the large tourist boats. Paradise Sailing Hawaii lets you relax with friendly captains aboard a spacious and accommodating catamaran. These intimate charters offer a soothing experience so you can focus on watching the sunset, looking for whales, or just enjoying the ocean breeze.
Paradise Sailing Hawaii started in 2015 when its captains, Eric and Yumi Wakely, decided that they needed to start their own charter company after operating boats for others for 20 years. This couple still owns and operates the Kurt Hughes 36-foot catamaran. They named their boat Kolea after the migratory Pacific Golden Plover. Local legend attributes this bird as the guide to Hawaii for Polynesian sailors who became the first visitors to the island chain.
Despite the storied roots of the name of the boat, this catamaran is anything but old. In fact, it is among the newest charter vessels on the Island of Hawaii. It can accommodate groups of up to 24 people, allowing for smaller, more intimate, and relaxed trips. Other features of this vessel include a freshwater shower, spacious restrooms, a covered seating area, tables with drink holders, cushioned seats, and lounging nets.
As a family-owned and operated business, Paradise Sailing Hawaii has the luxury to offer each guest a friendly, personalized service. In fact, the captains will gladly give visitors hands-on lessons in sailing, even letting them occasionally take the helm.
Both captains are highly personable and professional. They know the waters of the Kona Coast well and take charters to some of the best spots for whale or dolphin watching, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
Private charter options aboard the Kolea include the following:
4-Hour Morning Charter
The longest charter is the morning option. This excursion lasts almost all morning, during which you will enjoy a leisurely sail along the Kona Coast. You’ll get to see wildlife and interesting points noted by the captain. Plus, this charter includes a snorkeling trip with all equipment provided. To participate in snorkeling, you must know how to swim well. While you get complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on board, you have the option to ask about getting lunch catered on your morning charter.
3-Hour Snorkeling Excursion
The three-hour afternoon charter takes you on a leisurely sail that includes snorkeling. Like the morning trip, you have the option to bring your own food and drinks or enjoy the free snacks on board. This trip gives you an afternoon of relaxing aboard a smooth sailing catamaran without the crowds of other snorkeling excursions.
2-Hour Sunset Sail
While you can see the sunset from land, nothing beats experiencing a Kona sunset from the water. Plus, you can take stunning photos of the island’s mountains lit by the setting sun. If seeing the sunset in Hawaii is a priority for you, make your viewing aboard the Kolea with Paradise Sailing Hawaii for a unique way to enjoy the end of the day.
If you want a more personalized, relaxing charter along the Kona Coast, book a trip with Paradise Sailing Hawaii. You’ll enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience sailing through the waters of the Island of Hawaii.
Insider Tips:
-When using your phone for directions, use Google Maps to find the parking area for Paradise Sailing Hawaii. Apple Maps frequently gives incorrect directions to the parking site.
-Look for the bright orange sign in the harbor to quickly locate the dock for Paradise Sailing.
-Book charters with this highly popular charter at least two months in advance to ensure that you get the date you want to sail.
-Trips include packaged snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. Feel free to pack your own food or bring alcoholic beverages with you for the trip.
-While you may see wild dolphins, you cannot swim with them due to local laws to protect wildlife.