Kauai is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. If you want to experience it from a different perspective, take a boat tour. You’ll get to explore everything from shallow coves and hidden beaches, lava tubes and caves, waterfalls, and streams plus so much more! What should you bring on your next Kauai Boat Tour? We’ll fill you in on everything you might want to bring along as you enjoy the ocean breeze and fantastic views.
Bathing Suits
Many of the boat tours on Kauai are paired with snorkeling adventures, so you will want to wear a bathing suit for the water. The tour boat will usually stop at one location, but if not then there are likely some nice coves or beaches along the way that provide plenty of opportunities for swimming and snorkeling!
Reef-Safe Sunscreen (no spray)
Protecting your skin is important, no matter where you are. Kauai has beautiful weather year-round and the sun can be intense. We recommend bringing a reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UV rays that could cause damage or even cancer!
Make sure to reapply every few hours too. Don’t forget about other members of your party, and don’t forget to take a hat.
Reef-safe Sunscreen is free of oxybenzone which can destroy coral reefs so it’s better for the ocean! It also works just as well as traditional sunscreens but doesn’t peel or sting your eyes if you get any in them either. If you don’t know whether your sunscreen is reef safe, check the label and if it has any of these ingredients then you will want to pick something else:
- Oxybenzone
- Octinoxate
- Octocrylene
- Homosalate
- 4-methylbenzylidene camphor
- PABA
- Parabens
- Triclosan
- Any nanoparticles or “nano-sized” zinc or titanium
- Any microplastic
Reef-safe sunscreen at just about any store in Hawaii so if you need to pick up some more don’t worry! It’s very easy to find.
Bring Sunglasses
Just like sunscreen, sunglasses are important for protecting your eyes from the sun as well as keeping them shaded so you can see better.
Sunglasses are a necessity for any Kauai boat tour.
Even if the sun isn’t out or you’ll be undercover, bringing sunglasses is always a good idea to have with you on your adventures!
Bring A Hat On Your Kauai Boat Tour
A hat is a great accessory to have on any Kauai boat tour. Not only will it keep the sun off of your face and protect you from UV rays, but it also provides some shade for your eyes too. No one likes a sunburnt head and hats are a great way to avoid that. While it’s not a requirement it’s highly recommended by any seasoned crew.
Bring A Towel and Jacket
Most boat tours are all about having a great time in the water. Bring a towel with you to the boat tour so you can dry off between snorkeling stops.
If your boat tour takes place during any time of day when there’s likely to be some rain then it might even help keep your gear safe! Keep in mind that all boats are different and while some have towels on board, it’s always best to be prepared and bring your own along.
It can also get a little breezy on the water so it’s a good plan to bring a jacket or a windbreaker.
Your Excitement!
The most important thing you can bring on a boat tour is your excitement! You’ll likely see some great things from the water and it’s always fun to have someone along who shares that enthusiasm. It makes for a more memorable experience, especially if you’re sharing with friends or family. The crew will be happy to answer any questions about what you’re seeing and where you are, so don’t be afraid to ask.
Book Your Kauai Boat Tour Adventure with Kauai Sea Tours
Kauai Sea Tours offers a variety of tours for visitors and residents alike and is excited to explore the oceans of Kauai with you. Whether you are looking to experience a sunset boat tour, snorkel tour or even a Kauai whale watching tour we are ready to show you the beauty of Kauai’s sea! Call 1-800-733-7997 for more information.