Fern Grotto River Boat Cruise | Smith’s Tropical Paradise

Embark on a scenic two-mile river journey along the Wailua River, Hawaii’s only navigable river, and join in the cultural festivities!

Sharing songs and legends of the Wailua River Valley is a family tradition for the Smith family. In 1946, Walter Smith, Sr. and his wife, Emily, started a small family business on Kauai with a little rowboat and a borrowed outboard motor. Four generations later, they continue their Grandpa’s tradition of sharing their love of Kauai and its rich cultural heritage.

Climb aboard Smith’s iconic flat-bottom river boats that provide comfortable seating and have an expansive open-air galley offering excellent views. On your cruise upriver, see how the waters pour down from Mt. Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the wettest spots on earth, and flow into the river. Learn that the land along the river bank is sacred to the Hawaiians and is known as the birthplace of the island’s ali‘i (royalty). Your captain & crew entertain you with songs and stories of ancient Hawaii along the way. In addition, you may want to try your hand at learning the Hula dance during the ride, as a short lesson is offered.

Once your boat is parked at the landing in the back of the valley, you’ll disembark and enjoy a short nature walk through the tropical rainforest to the lush Fern Grotto. The Fern Grotto is a geological wonder of Kauai. Ferns grow upside down from the roof of the grotto, which was formed millions of years ago. The abundance of native Hawaiian flora and vibrant exotic plants creates a distinct rainforest environment.

What to Bring:
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a light jacket

Cancellation Policy:
A 72-hour cancellation policy applies for 100% of the ticket price. Cancellations made outside of 72 hours are refundable, less a one-time processing fee of $30