Kauai's Grand Helicopter (Wheelchair Accessible)
Points of Interest
- Waimea Canyon
- Napali Coast
Description
Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.
Lift off in an air-conditioned jet helicopter passing Nawiliwili Harbor, named for the Wiliwili trees that were once abundant in the area and the Menehune Fishpond. Legend states it was built by the Menehune, leprechaun-like little people, in one moonlit night. Archeologists date the pond to pre-Hawaiian times, around 1,000 years ago.
Soar over the Hanapepe Valley with its many waterfalls and dense tropical forests followed by views of Waimea Canyon - the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific."
Waimea Canyon is the largest canyon in the Pacific and one of its most dramatic natural wonders. The canyon measures 10 miles long, 1 mile wide, and more than 3,500-feet deep. It was carved thousands of years ago by rivers and floods that flowed from Mount Waialeale's summit.
The lines in the canyon walls depict different volcanic eruptions and lava flows that have occurred over the centuries. Even though smaller than the Grand Canyon of Arizona, Waimea Canyon rivals it in rugged beauty.
Wailea Falls, of "Fantasy Island" TV fame, is a stupendous 80-foot cascade that feeds into the river. Imagine this amazing place in ancient times when Hawaiian men would jump from the top of the falls to prove their manhood.
The Alakai Swamp, located on a plateau near Mount Waialeale, is extremely wet with numerous alpine bogs. Clouds often obscure the terrain surrounding the swamp and Waialeale Crater which receives 460 inches of annual rainfall, the wettest spot on earth.
But if the weather permits, your helicopter will fly safely over the crater with its lush green vegetation, numerous waterfalls, and "Jurassic Park" movie settings. To complete this half-day excursion, you'll soar over the isolated Na Pali Coast with its beautiful valleys and beaches, which were used as backdrops for the film "Raiders of the Lost Ark."
Special Notes:
The content of this tour is identical to LIH-800. Only guests using a wheelchair can book this tour, as it ensures accessible transportation. Due to the specialized nature of some lift-equipped vehicles, priority is given to guests using a wheelchair and one companion only; additional companions may be required to travel on the transportation provided for tour LIH-800. Bookings not marked with an accessibility requirement will be removed from the tour's inventory.Maximum weight for the power mobility lift is 250lbs. Passengers with disabilities must contact the onboard Tour Office at least 48 hours prior to the excursion to ensure arrangements can be made to meet their particular needs. Please be sure to read the "Accessible Cruising" information on the home page of Princess.com.
Approximate flight time is 55 minutes.
Views of Waialeale Crater and Wailua Falls are weather permitting. Carry-on bags are not allowed and there is limited secure storage at the heliport. iPads, iPad minis or tablets are not permitted on the flight. Oxygen devices of any type are not allowed.
Weight surcharge ($179.95) may apply on this flight. Due to weight and balance limitations, as well as passenger safety and comfort, the helicopter companies have advised that guests weighing 260 lbs. or more (fully clothed) will be assessed the weight surcharge to reserve adequate space onboard the helicopter. Passengers weighing 260 lbs. or more should reserve an extra surcharge ticket and, once onboard, contact the Tour Office and your account will be adjusted to reflect the cost of the surcharge only. Must be able to climb onboard helicopter if more than 250 lbs as maximum weight for the power mobility lift is 250lbs.
Helicopter excursions are not refundable unless cancelled by 12:00pm on the day after embarkation.
Details
Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.
Depart from pier and drive to headquarters for check-in & safety briefing
- Transport type:
- Van
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Travel time:
- 00:15
- Walking distance:
- 10
- Steps:
- 2
- Wheelchair accessible:
- Yes
- Restroom available:
- Yes
Check-in and safety briefing
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Time at site:
- 00:20
Transfer to Heliport
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Travel time:
- 00:15
- Walking distance:
- 3
Helicopter Tour
- Transport type:
- Helicopter
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Time at site:
- 00:55
Transfer to headquarters
- Transport type:
- Van
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Travel time:
- 00:15
Brief stop for souvenir shopping
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Time at site:
- 00:15
Re-board van and return to ship
- Transport Capacity:
- 6
- Travel time:
- 00:15