Kauai Morning Advanced Scuba Charter: Sheraton Caverns & South Shore Reefs
This morning charter runs advanced dives along Kauai’s south shore, visiting Sheraton Caverns and deep ledges where lava-formed arches meet pelagic life. Expect strong currents, depths up to 100 ft, and the chance to see sharks, manta rays and seasonal humpbacks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Advanced Certification Required
Bring proof of Advanced Open Water or equivalent and recent logged dives — guides will evaluate experience before selecting sites.
Use a Dive Computer and SMB
Depths near 100 ft and current drift profiles demand a reliable dive computer and a surface marker buoy for safety stops and surface pickups.
Prepare for Currents and Seasickness
Take preventative seasickness measures and secure loose gear; currents can change quickly on south shore walls.
Book for Morning Light
Morning departures often give better visibility and calmer channels — reserve early, especially in whale season.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sheraton Caverns’ lava arches — best in morning light when visibility spikes
- •Shallow reef pockets near Poipu for a warmup skin dive or snorkel after the charter
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Spinner dolphins and seasonal humpback whales
Conservation Note
These reefs are fragile — use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching corals or wildlife, and follow the operator’s guidance to minimize anchor and contact damage.
South shore formations are carved from Kauai’s basaltic lava flows; native Hawaiians fished these reefs using deep local knowledge of currents and seasonal runs.
What to Bring
Dive ComputerEssential
Required for managing deep profiles and multi-stop deco calculations.
Personal Mask and FinsEssential
A well-fitted mask and familiar fins improve comfort and efficiency in strong currents.
Wetsuit (3–5mm) or ShortyEssential
Water is warm year-round but a thin wetsuit aids thermal comfort on longer dives and surface intervals.
Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) & ReelEssential
Essential for signaling the boat during drift or ledge dives in current-prone areas.
Common Questions
What certification level is required?
This charter is for experienced divers; Advanced Open Water (or equivalent) and proof of recent logged dives are required.
How deep are the dives?
Sites can reach roughly 100 ft (30 m); exact depths depend on site selection and conditions that day.
Is rental gear available?
Yes — the operator offers high-quality rental sets, but bringing personal mask, computer and SMB is recommended.
What wildlife might we see?
Expect reef fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and seasonally humpback whales and manta rays; large pelagics like reef sharks are also possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–5 hours
Location
Poipu, Hawaii
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Should be in good cardiovascular shape with experience managing stress underwater and handling boat transfers
Ready to Explore Poipu?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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