UnCruise Adventures, our favorite expedition line, has been sailing in Hawaii for years. The company discovered during this time that travelers love the exotic itineraries and the opportunities to explore the idyllic setting and interact with nature so much that it was time to expand the season.
UnCruise has announced its first foray into summer island cruising with the addition of six departures in July and August 2019. The weeklong small-ship cruises sail roundtrip Moloka'i and explore Lana'i, the Big Island of Hawai'i, and sea turtle-rich waters off West Maui.
For this adventure, you sail on the intimate 36-passengers Safari Explorer. This ship has been featured on the company's Hawaii cruises from November through April since 2011. The new weeklong summer itinerary visits four islands, where you take part in thrilling activities to explore land and sea -- kayaking, hiking, swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, searching for wildlife and touring by skiff. Cultural heritage also is a key component of the UnCruise experience in the islands.
"We've had our eye on operating in Hawaii during the summer, and with current demand, the time is right," UnCruise Adventures' owner and CEO Dan Blanchard said. "Hawaii is a popular vacation destination all year, and now summer travelers can take advantage of the convenience of traveling between islands by yacht."
The new Aloha Hawaii Adventure Cruise sails roundtrip Moloka'i, a lightly visited island that provides an authentic Hawaiian vibe. A Halawa Valley family with ancient Hawaiian lineage invites visitors into their home to "talk story" about island lore and learn how to make poi from taro root. A guided hike meanders past taro patches and ends at a waterfall where you can take a plunge into the exhilarating waters. An evening pa'ina feast in town is a true Hawaiian celebration with traditional cuisine, music and dancing.
On the island of Lana'i, you can hike to Sweetheart Rock to take in the sweeping views and visit the Lana'i Culture and Heritage Center. Snorkeling is an option off West Maui, to visit a turtle cleaning station -- where turtles visit to have their shells cleaned (parasites removed by small fish) -- and find yourself swimming with green sea turtles and other colorful fish. It's a remarkable chance to witness the unique natural symbiosis among sea creatures.
An evening snorkel in Honomalino Bay draws Giant Pacific Manta ray's up close in a feeding area. Kayak through lava tubes off the Big Island of Hawai'I, and stroll through historic Kailua. Marine life abounds with sightings of colorful reef fish, turtles, whales, dolphins, reef sharks and manta rays.
Meals on board Safari Explorer are fresh and innovative, with produce and meat sourced on Moloka'i. Sustainable seafood is sourced from fishermen at the Honolulu fish market.
These cruises start at $5,195 per person based on double occupancy. Fares include all meals, beverages (yes, including alcohol), adventure activities and transfers. Port taxes and fees are additional. Bookings confirmed prior to March 29 receive a $600 per couple Aloha savings. For more information, call UnCruise Adventures at 888-862-8881 or email sales@uncruise.com. UnCruise Adventures says it will announce its summer 2020 Hawaii schedule soon.
Thanks for reading,
JR