Introduction

If you’re considering a scuba adventure off Kauai, a quick search might lead you to this highly-rated 2 Tanks Scuba Dive Kaua’i from a Boat tour offered by Explore Kauai Scuba. Based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience seems to be a hit among divers looking for quality, personalized service, and a good dose of Kauai’s vibrant underwater life.
What really catches our eye about this tour are two things: first, the fact that it’s run by a small, family-owned operation where Nick and Jessie personally handle all the dives—meaning they genuinely care about making your experience memorable. Second, the emphasis on not rushing and taking things slow, which is perfect if you want a laid-back, personalized outing. One consideration to keep in mind is that it’s a single tour per day, so you might need to plan well in advance to secure your spot.
This tour is best suited for certified divers who want an intimate, flexible experience on Kauai’s south-west coast, especially if you appreciate high-quality gear, wildlife spotting, and a tour tailored to your interests.
Key Points

- Personalized Experience: Only two divers and two guides mean more attention for each guest.
- Flexible Itinerary: Only one tour daily, allowing for a relaxed schedule and customized dive sites.
- Rich Marine Life: Expect encounters with sea turtles, reef sharks, octopus, nudibranchs, and more.
- All Gear Included: Free rental of high-quality scuba and snorkeling equipment with your booking.
- Comfort and Convenience: Meet at the harbor with free parking and a start time of 7:00 a.m., ending around noon.
- Limited Group Size: Max of 6 travelers, preserving intimacy and individual attention.
Planning more time in Kauai? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
An Honest Look at the Experience

When it comes to Kauai’s underwater world, this tour offers a great opportunity to see a wide variety of marine creatures. The fact that they have over 20 different dive sites available means you can tell them what you’re most excited to see—whether that’s coral formations, reef sharks, or colorful tropical fish—and they’ll try to match your interests.
The Itinerary and Dive Sites
The tour typically features two different sites—likely starting with a deeper ledge or arch, then moving to a reef for the second dive. This variety is perfect for divers who want a bit of everything: the thrill of exploring a structure like an arch, followed by a more relaxed reef exploration. The flexibility in choosing sites based on what wildlife or topography you’re after is a definite highlight.
Since the tour is run by only Nick and Jessie, you can count on a slower, more thoughtful pace. They are committed to not rushing and taking their time, which is especially valuable if you prefer a stress-free experience or are new to the area.
What to Expect on the Day
You’ll meet at Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor at 7:00 a.m., which is early but typical for water-based tours, especially if you want calmer seas and better visibility. The boat ride to the dive sites is part of the adventure, and you’ll likely get to enjoy some of Kauai’s scenic coastline views. The tour lasts about five hours, ending back at the harbor around noon—giving you plenty of time for the rest of your day’s plans.
What’s Included and What You Need to Know
All the scuba gear is included in the price, so there’s no need to worry about renting or bringing your own equipment unless you prefer to. You should bring your certification card and logbook, along with essentials like a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, and a towel. A jacket for the surface interval during winter months is recommended.
Since transportation to the harbor isn’t included, you’ll need to arrange your own ride there, but free parking is available on-site, which is super convenient. The tour is limited to just six guests, fostering an intimate environment where your guides can focus on your safety and enjoyment.
The Value
At $370 per person, this tour might seem a bit pricey compared to some group tours, but considering the personalized service, high-quality gear, and exclusive attention you get, it’s a solid investment. The reviews reinforce this, with travelers praising the quality of the boat, the gear, and the guides. Many mention how relaxed the experience feels, and how Jessie and Nick go above and beyond to make sure everyone has a memorable time.
Authentic Feedback from Divers
One reviewer called it a “top-notch dive operation,” emphasizing the high-quality gear and boat. They appreciated how booking was straightforward and the pre-dive communication prompt. The personal touch and local knowledge of Jessie and Nick were, according to multiple reviews, what truly made their experience stand out.
Another reviewer was blown away by the abundance of wildlife, mentioning that Jessie’s ability to identify critters was impressive. They also praised Nick’s captain skills, ensuring a safe and smooth ride between sites.
A recurring theme in the reviews is the friendly, accommodating attitude of the guides, making even newcomers or less experienced divers feel comfortable. This is a real plus if you want a stress-free underwater adventure.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for certified divers who value personalized attention and want to explore Kauai’s marine life without rushing. It’s perfect if you’re after a smaller group, high-quality gear, and a knowledgeable, friendly crew. The tour’s flexibility makes it suitable for those who might have specific wildlife or topography interests.
However, if you’re looking for a large-group, high-energy tour, this might not be the right fit. Likewise, if you need transportation included, you’ll need to organize that yourself. But for those wanting a relaxed, intimate, and expert-led experience, this tour ticks a lot of boxes.
The Sum Up

If you’re after a personalized, high-quality scuba experience that emphasizes a slow-paced, wildlife-rich exploration of Kauai’s underwater world, this tour from Explore Kauai Scuba is worth considering. The fact that it’s run by Nick and Jessie—who genuinely care about their guests—means you’re likely to get more than just a standard tour. You’ll get expert guidance, top-notch gear, and plenty of opportunities to see Kauai’s marine life in all its glory.
The limited group size and flexible site selection give it an intimate feel, making it an excellent choice for certified divers who want a relaxed yet enriching day on the water. While the price may be on the higher side, the reviews suggest that the quality of experience, personal attention, and wildlife encounters make it a worthwhile investment.
This tour really shines for travelers who value authentic local knowledge, personalized service, and the chance to see a variety of marine creatures in a laid-back setting. It’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy Kauai’s sea life without the crowds or rush.
2 Tanks Scuba Dive Kaua’i from a Boat
“Thank you to Nick and Jessie for giving us a memorable scuba diving and snorkel trip! They took their time to make sure we had the best experience…”
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is geared toward certified divers and travelers with moderate physical fitness levels. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so consider the requirements before booking.
What is included in the price?
The price covers all scuba and snorkeling equipment, drinks, snacks, and access to restroom facilities.
Do I need my own gear?
No, gear is provided free of charge, and the team helps you try on different sizes for the best fit.
What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 7:00 a.m. and generally returns around noon.
How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of six travelers means you’ll get plenty of personal attention.
Is transportation to the harbor included?
No, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, but free parking is available.
What should I bring?
Bring your certification card, logbook, sun protection like hat and reef-safe sunscreen, towel, and a jacket for the surface interval if needed.
What gear should I bring if I prefer to use your own?
If you choose to bring your equipment, note that they have a variety of gear to try on, but it’s best to confirm and coordinate ahead of time.
What happens in bad weather?
If the weather cancels the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized dive experience on Kauai with a focus on wildlife and excellent service, this tour could be just what you need. It’s a great way to enjoy Kauai’s underwater beauty with friendly guides who truly care about making your day special.
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