ABOUT US
Kanaka Ocean Experience is proud to be one of the few Native Hawaiian-owned and operated charter boat companies in Hawaii. Our mission is to offer guests an immersive, authentic experience of Hawaii’s rich history and culture, combining the beauty of our waters with the stories passed down through generations.
We specialize in personalized, high-end tours that explore the historical and cultural significance of Hawaii’s coastline. Whether you're interested in whalewatching, private fishing excursions, or relaxing coastal cruises, each journey is enriched with authentic storytelling that gives you deeper insight into the land and sea.
TOURS & SERVICES
We offer a variety of ocean adventure tours and exclusive charters exploring the waters off the West and North coasts of Hawaii Island. Our tours depart from South Kawaihae harbor (about 28 miles north of Kona International Airport) and can accommodate groups of up to six people.
DETAILS (ALL TOURS)
What's Included
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Water, juice, soda, BYOB
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Life jackets
What to Bring
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Sunglasses
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Sunscreen
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Towel
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Warm jacket/sweatshirt
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Motion sickness medicine
Check-in Location
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South Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor
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See map or click here
MEET THE CAPTAIN
Captain Ikaika Vivas has sailed the coastlines of Hawaii since the age of five. Raised in Kaimū, Hawaii, he fostered a strong connection with his natural surroundings by hunting, fishing, diving, harvesting, and sailing aboard Makaliʻi, or double-hulled voyaging canoes. These experiences deepend his passion for wayfaring.
Early in his career, Captain Ikaika embarked on a trans-Pacific journey aboard a waʻa (canoe) called Haunui to deepen his cultural and nautical knowledge while learning about the interconnected regions of the Pacific Ocean. He spent two years sailing through Tahiti, Fiji, Samoa, New Zealand, and the Cook Islands. Previously a pro waterman on Mauna Lani’s ocean pursuits program, Kainalu Ocean Sports, Captain Ikaika looks forward to sharing the timeless beauty of Hawaii and its practices through stories, traditions, and most of all, aloha.