Starting your day with a morning boat tour exploring Kauai’s southern waters offers a chance to see some of the island’s most intriguing underwater sites. For certified divers with at least 20 previous dives, this experience promises depths of 80-100 feet on the first dive and slightly shallower on the second—60-70 feet—of some of Kauai’s most popular dive spots. The tour costs around $259 per person and lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, guides, and equipment.
What we really like about this tour is its focus on advanced diving in areas known for drift dives and abundant critters. The latest and largest fleet of boats on the island ensures both safety and comfort, and the dive sites—think Turtle Bluffs, Fish Bowl, Brenneke’s Ledge, and the famous Sheraton Caverns—are perfect for those wanting to push their limits and explore Kauai’s vibrant marine life.
One possible consideration is that this tour is strictly for experienced divers. If you’re new to diving or haven’t logged the required 20 dives, this won’t be suitable. Also, the focus on advanced sites means it’s less tailored for families or casual snorkelers. But if you’re a seasoned diver looking to explore Kauai’s more challenging underwater terrain, this tour is an excellent choice.
This experience is best suited for certified divers who want a full morning of advanced diving in a safe, well-equipped environment. It’s perfect for those who love drift dives, marine critters, and tropical underwater scenery.
Key Points
- Advanced Certification Needed: Only experienced divers with at least 20 dives are accepted.
- Popular Dive Sites: Includes Turtle Bluffs, Fish Bowl, Sheraton Caverns, and Brenneke’s Ledge.
- Marine Encounters: Regular sightings of fish schools, turtles, sharks, eels, and octopus.
- All Equipment Included: Except BCD and regulator, which can be rented for an extra fee.
- Expert Guides: Complete site briefings and guidance ensure safety and maximize your experience.
- Transportation & Snacks: Provided from the dive shop to the harbor, with water and snacks on board.
In-Depth Review of the Kauai 2 Tank Morning Dive Tour
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Setting the Scene: What to Expect
Once you arrive at Seasport Divers Dive Shop, you’ll find a professional operation well-versed in catering to experienced divers. The tour typically begins early in the morning, with transportation provided from the shop to the harbor, allowing for a relaxed start without the rush. You’ll meet your guides who are experienced and ready to lead you on some of Kauai’s most captivating underwater sites.
The Boats and Equipment
The fleet is described as the newest and largest on the island, which translates into comfort, safety, and reliability. As an experienced diver, you’ll appreciate the top-quality gear, though BCDs and regulators are available for rent if needed. The included snacks and water keep you energized after the first plunge, and guides will brief you thoroughly on the dive sites and marine life you might encounter.
The Dive Sites and What Makes Them Special
Each dive site offers something unique. For example, Sheraton Caverns is the most popular on the south side, renowned for its underwater caves, overhangs, and marine critters. Turtle Bluffs and Brenneke’s Ledge are more suited for drift diving, where currents gently carry you along vibrant coral formations and schools of fish.
We loved the way guides provide detailed briefings, ensuring divers know what to expect and how to navigate the sites safely. Multiple reviews mention the chance to see a large variety of marine life—from turtles and sharks to eels and octopus—making each dive not just a workout but a visual feast.
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Two specific aspects stand out: First, the focus on advanced dive sites means you get to explore more challenging and less crowded areas. Second, the professional guides and well-maintained equipment deliver peace of mind, especially important when diving at greater depths.
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A Few Considerations
Since this tour is designed for experienced divers, there’s little room for beginners. The depths and currents can be demanding, and the sites are not suited for non-swimmers or pregnant women. Also, equipment like BCDs and regulators incur an additional fee if you don’t bring your own, something to keep in mind for budgeting.
Who Should Book?
If you’re certified, experienced, and eager to see Kauai’s more adventurous underwater sites, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially suitable if you love drift diving and want to encounter marine creatures in their natural habitat. The tour is less appropriate for children under 10, non-swimmers, or those seeking a casual snorkeling experience.
Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary
Morning Arrival & Check-In
You’ll start at Seasport Divers, where gear is prepared, and guides brief you on the day’s plans. The morning schedule allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy calmer waters, particularly important for drift dives or site exploration.
Transportation to the Harbor
The ride to the harbor is short and comfortable, giving you a chance to relax and perhaps chat with fellow divers. The boat crew is friendly and professional, instilling confidence for the upcoming dives.
First Dive: Depths of 80-100 Feet
The first site typically involves a drift dive, where currents help you glide along the reef. Sites like Turtle Bluffs and Brenneke’s Ledge feature colorful coral formations and plenty of marine life, with regular sightings of large schools of fish, sharks, and turtles. We loved the way guides kept a close eye on everyone, ensuring safety while allowing freedom to explore.
Surface Interval & Snacks
After the first dive, there’s a brief surface break, giving you time to enjoy snacks and water on the boat, refuel, and prepare for the next dive.
Second Dive: Shallower but Equally Rich
The second spot is often around 60-70 feet deep, with sites like the Fish Bowl or Sheraton Caverns, famed for cavern formations and critters. This dive tends to be less intense but equally rewarding—a perfect way to end your morning underwater adventure.
Post-Dive & Return
Once back at the dock, most divers feel they’ve truly experienced the best of Kauai’s marine environment. The entire process—from check-in, the boat ride, dives, and snacks—is designed to maximize your enjoyment without feeling rushed.
Pricing and Value
At $259 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity you’ll find on Kauai, but it offers good value for experienced divers seeking advanced sites and personalized guidance. All equipment (excluding BCD and regulator rentals) and transport are included, reducing the hassle and extra costs. Given the quality of the fleet, guide expertise, and marine encounters, most seasoned divers will find it worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
This tour delivers a solid, well-organized experience tailored for experienced underwater explorers. The chance to safely explore Kauai’s more challenging, critter-filled sites makes it a memorable highlight of any diving trip on the island. It’s a great way to see less accessible underwater landscapes, away from the crowds.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
It’s ideal for certified divers who want to push their limits and explore Kauai’s best advanced dive sites. If you’re eager to see turtles, sharks, and eels in a lively, natural setting, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s less suitable if you’re a non-diver or a beginner, or if you’re traveling with children under 10. For those with a passion for marine life and a desire for a technical underwater experience, this tour offers a blend of adventure and professional guidance.
FAQ
Do I need to be a certified diver?
Yes, this tour is strictly for certified divers with at least 20 dives. It’s designed for those comfortable at depths of 80-100 feet and familiar with drift diving.
Are equipment rentals included?
All necessary equipment is included, except BCD and regulator, which can be rented for an additional fee if you don’t bring your own.
What marine animals might I see?
You can expect large schools of fish, turtles, sharks, eels, and octopus. Sightings are regular but, as with all wildlife, not guaranteed.
How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, briefings, two dives, and snacks.
Is this suitable for non-swimmers?
No, non-swimmers and pregnant women are not recommended due to the nature of the dives.
What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, biodegradable sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
This Kauai 2 Tank Morning Dive offers a chance to explore the island’s more advanced dive sites with expert guidance, in comfort and safety. If you’re an experienced diver eager to encounter Kauai’s vibrant marine life and challenging underwater terrain, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip—adding a memorable chapter to your Kauai adventure.
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