While we were visiting the Hawaii Islands we went on a raft cruise along the Na Pali Coast on the island of Kauai (locally known as the Garden island of Hawaii, because of its lush green environment). The cruise started in the morning till afternoon, and included a packed lunch and time for short session of snorkelling. This route went along the north west side of the island which is inaccessible by car due to the high cliffs of the canyon but can be reached on foot along designated paths if you had sufficient time and energy. The views were stunning and while we were there we saw bottle nose dolphins and turtles very close to the raft and whales at a distance. The ‘captain’ was very knowledgeable on marine life, the history of the island and its early inhabitants, and pointed out landmarks where many of the film locations took place, especially for the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ films. Although this is more suitable for people who does not have back problems, a more sedate cruise can be taken on a catamaran. Although it was December and I had put sunscreen on I still got slightly sunburnt.
