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The Whales of Kauai |
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 Mount Everest, the Grand Canyon, and Niagara Falls are all
marvels of the natural world. But one of nature's greatest spectacles lies
in one of the planet's most remote areas.
The majestic Na Pali
Coast of Kauai is a spectacular wilderness area that the typical tourist
will never see. Located along Kauai's remote North Shore, the Na Pali
Coast is an awe-inspiring 6,175 acres; and although it has been converted
into a state park, and remains as isolated from civilization as it was
many centuries ago. Practically inaccessible to vehicular traffic, the Na
Pali Coast is ideal for adventurous hikers and campers. However, to truly
appreciate the unmitigated view of the famous and breathtaking cliffs,
your best bet is to travel by helicopter or boat.
If fate allows
you to cruise the 15-mile stretch of Na Pali Coastline, you will witness
an awesome view of the stunning 4,000-foot cliffs. The area was named for
these rugged cliffs, as "pali" is the Hawaiian word for "cliffs". As you
near the coastline, you will see these cliffs rising abruptly from the
Pacific Ocean, occasionally giving way to gaps and revealing wide
stretches of golden sand, deep jungle valleys and the mysterious sea caves
between.
Winter is the best time to go on a cruise up and down the
Na Pali Coast, as that is when the humpback whales frequent the Kauai
waters. If you take a chartered ship, your captain will likely know
exactly where these wonderful sea creatures can be seen. Truly fortunate
sight-seekers will have the opportunity to take pictures and enjoy a
spectacular show by these playful dirigibles of the deep as they perform
with sea turtles, dolphins and other oceanic creatures.
Humpback
whales can be measure 40 feet in length and can weigh up to 85,000 pounds.
The fifth largest of the world's greatest whales, humpbacks are seen only
in Hawaii over the winter months. Federal law protects these breathtaking
creatures, so their population is rising. Plan a tour of the Na Pali Coast
during humpback season, and you're sure to witness a fantastic spectacle
of nature.
Na Pali boat tours are not necessarily restricted to the
coastline. Both Hanakapiai and Kalalau Beach (named one of America's Top
40 Beaches by the National Geographic Traveler) are well-known Na Pali
Coast State Park destinations. You can also visit the famous arch of
Honopu, or the stunning fringing reefs of Nualolo and Milolii.
Depending
on your itinerary and how adventurous you feel, the tour options you
choose can be as wildly exciting as the Na Pali coastline itself. Most
boat companies launch their charter tours from west side harbours.
However, you can choose to sail from the quaint town of Hanalei if you
choose to charter one of the smaller companies. Cruises to Ni'ihau are
also available, providing you the opportunity to stop for a bit of
snorkeling and scuba diving.
Tips to Successful Kauai Whale
Watching:
* Choose a professional boat company, with a captain who
knows where to find the whales and more importantly, respects the safety
and environment of the whales
* Catamarans, cruise vessels,
sailboats and rubber zodiac rafts are all good choices for whale watching
*
Bring your camera so that you can preserve this incredible sight forever.
You could be in for a wet ride, especially if you'll be riding in the bow
area of the boat. Consider bringing waterproof, disposable cameras.
*
Binoculars give you a closer observation of whale behavior, but they can
be tricky to use if the water is rough. Your best bet for binoculars is to
choose a pair with 8 x 40, or 7 x 50 dimensions.
* Keep a keen eye.
You could see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, albatross and other sea birds
and animals, in addition to humpback whales. Pay attention and see what
you can spot in the air and in the water.
* Dress accordingly. Wear
a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Remember, you'll be in a boat, so be
prepared to get wet. Wear your beach clothes, and bring a towel. If you
decide to bring extra clothes to change into, make sure you keep them in a
waterproof bag.
* If you are prone to motion sickness, be sure to
take homeopathic or non-prescription motion sickness prevention medication
at least one hour before getting on a boat. Your trip will likely include
the North Shore, where winter waves can swell to 10-30 feet, so the ride
can get very bumpy at higher speeds. Medicated motion sickness treatments
can make you drowsy and you don't want to miss a thing, so consider a
non-medicinal alternative. Dry bread, crackers, ginger, papaya and
avoiding alcohol can help reduce nausea.
Traveling is a great way
to witness nature's most impressive sites firsthand, but the truly
adventurous travelers go to where others only dream of. When planning your
next journey, plan on cruising the Na Pali coastline with humpback whales.
It will be an experience you'll never forget.
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