Viking reviews of shore excursions Viking Ocean Cruise Critic Community

wailua river cruise

Quantum of the Seas® takes you on an epic adventure to the best of Hawaii. Then savor a fresh roast of coffee grown in the ancient lava fields of Kailua Kona the next. And in between, fill your days with endless onboard thrills like RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator, delicious dining options and top-notch entertainment.

Waimea Canyon Tours other tours and activities

Upon arrival at the grotto, visitors are treated to the melodious sounds of Hawaiian music and the graceful movements of hula dancers, creating a serene and memorable atmosphere. The Fern Grotto is nestled along the Wailua River, just a short drive from Kapa’a town on Kauai’s eastern shore. Accessible only by boat, this secluded grotto is shrouded in verdant foliage, making it a hidden gem awaiting discovery. Visitors typically embark on guided boat tours that meander up the scenic Wailua River to reach the Fern Grotto.

AN ESSENTIAL KAUAI ADVENTURECopy LinkEmailFacebook

You can volunteer at the Waipā Foundation, a living learning center that perpetuates Hawaiian values and stewards more than 1,600 acres of land. Every fourth Saturday of the month, the public is welcomed to help take care of the land — whether reforesting native plants or restoring a fishpond — in an action called malama 'aina. Whether it’s the panoramic views from the lookout points or the exhilarating hikes through the rugged terrain, exploring Waimea Canyon is an adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Hawaiian Traditions: A Deep Dive Into Luau History

To sum it up, the cruise ship excursion to Kauai’s Wailua River Cruise and Fern Grotto offers a truly captivating and immersive experience of the island’s natural and cultural wonders. As you approach the Fern Grotto by boat, the first thing that strikes you is the astounding natural beauty that surrounds it. Towering emerald-hued ferns drape elegantly from the grotto’s limestone walls, creating a breathtaking canopy of greenery that’s illuminated by dappled sunlight streaming through the leaves. The contrast between the lush foliage and the dark, moss-covered rock formations is a sight to behold, and it’s no wonder that this spot has been a beloved destination for generations of visitors. For a unique Hawaiian Wailua River cruise, travel upriver to the sacred Fern Grotto, a lava rock grotto covered with tropical ferns. We were extremely pleased with Dancing Bear Tours in St. Petersburg.

Smith's Wailua cruise full of songs, spirit - The Garden Island

Smith's Wailua cruise full of songs, spirit.

Posted: Fri, 24 Jan 2020 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Plan some slower days during your trip to jibe with the leisure-loving locals. So we switched to ship tours, the included in the AM and punting on the Avon in PM. The few of us that went all complained about the route the pilot took and the brevity of the flight. Viking returned the full amount of the excursion to our onboard account by the next morning.

Take the windy Kalanianaole Highway (carefully) to the Halona Blowhole parking lot, or all the way past Sandy Beach Park and stop along the beach. Away from the city lights, the stars and moon glow brightly across the vast sky. Aside from the beautiful view, stars hold cultural significance to Hawaiians — for centuries, they’ve been used for storytelling, ceremonies, and wayfinding by voyagers. Located a short drive from Waikiki, Waialae Avenue is the artery of Honolulu’s quaint Kaimuki neighborhood. The stores, restaurants, and coffee shops lining the street pulsate with energy. If you’re looking to purchase locally crafted goods, Waialae Avenue has you covered.

FERN GROTTO CRUISE

When imagining Hawaiian beverages, you might think of a fruity drink with an umbrella, but the state is the only permanent coffee producer in the U.S. Head to the Big Island to tour the plantations where the good stuff is grown, from famous Kona Coffee to craft producer Mount Thunder. No trip to Oahu is complete without paying your respects to the victims of Pearl Harbor at the USS Arizona Memorial.

End your day's adventure with a relaxing cruise down Wailua River (fare included), the only navigable river in Hawaii. This 40-minute trip takes you to the lovely Fern Grotto, a popular destination which forms a natural amphitheater along the river. Prepare to be amazed by the natural beauty and cultural significance of these stunning locations.

Hawaii offers a tropical twist on the hip travel hobby called "forest bathing." It's all the rage among spiritually minded travelers these days and a great way to see nature close. Hike to Rainbow Falls on the Big Island, or through the lush Hana Rainforest on Maui. Do you cruise to Oahu and hit Waikiki — where the people-watching is as good as the tanning — or to the scenic Napali Coast of underrated Kauai? The best Hawaii cruises allow you to trek through the lush Hana Rainforest, or enjoy a more volcanic experience on the Big Island.

When the sugar industry had its last days, the ferns began to die off until restoration efforts returned moisture to the area. Hurricane Iniki and a severe flood in 2006 also wreaked havoc upon the cave. The Wailua River is known as “the only navigable river” in all Hawaii. The river’s fresh water pours down from Mt. Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the wettest spots on the planet. Lands along the river were the sacred capital of ancient Kauai and the birthplace of the island’s ali‘i, or royalty. Smith’s famous Wailua River cruise boats are powered by an ingenious rear-engine system invented by Walter Smith, Sr.

And since you’re facing the west, be sure to stay for the stunning sunset. If the skies are clear, you should make time for a nighttime adventure. My suggestion is to drive east out of Honolulu and into Hawaii Kai.

With a knowledgeable guide, breathtaking scenery, and the enchanting Fern Grotto, this tour is an adventure not to be missed. Yes, passengers are allowed to bring their cameras and other electronic devices on the tour. However, it is recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific camera restrictions. If you’re looking for alternative tour options, there are various excursions available in Kauai that cater to different interests and preferences. The Scenic Wailua River Cruise takes passengers on a captivating journey through the picturesque beauty of Kauai’s enchanting waterways. This tour offers a delightful day surrounded by breathtaking scenery and fascinating history.

wailua river cruise

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at botanical gardens, waterfalls, and scenic outlooks. You’ll likely hit some crowds at the more popular spots like Rainbow Falls and Waipio Valley Lookout, but if it’s your first time to the island, these locations are still worth a visit. I recommend stopping for lunch and a tour at Hawaiian Vanilla Co., a small, family-owned farm that offers vanilla-themed dishes and a tasting tour. The drive ends in the agricultural town of Waimea, and if you don't stop for lunch at the vanilla farm, grab a burger at Village Burger Waimea, where the beef is as fresh and local as possible. In conclusion, the Fern Grotto tour on Kauai is a magical blend of natural beauty, Hawaiian culture, and romantic legend. It offers visitors the chance to connect with the island’s history and immerse themselves in the lush, tropical paradise that is Kauai.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

What is a Costume Designer Job Description, Duties & Salary

Mobile Homes for Rent in Minnesota MN

+21 Better Homes And Gardens Lazy Day Lasagna 2022