The Vessel

Meet the Hoku Kai. Your Hawaiian Private Sanctuary

Built for Hawaiian waters. Guided by those who know them best.

Crafted for the Pacific. Curated for You.​

The Hoku Kai wasn’t adapted from an existing design. She was built from scratch in Hawaii, by people who understood exactly what these waters demand. Stable in open ocean swells. Quiet enough to hear the ocean around you. With a back deck that expands at anchor, turning the boat into something closer to a floating platform than a vessel. She carries a maximum of six guests. That’s not a limitation. That’s the point.

Specifications

The Anatomy of Comfort

Waterline Entry

Seamless access to the water via a custom-engineered swim platform designed for effortless exit and reentry.

Built by Solas

Renowned for marine safety and innovative hull designs that prioritize passenger security.

Full-sized Head

A spacious, clean, and private marine restroom for your total convenience while at sea.

Unmatched Stability

Our signature vessel design features expansive folding swim platforms, delivering enhanced stability.

Freshwater Shower

Rinse the salt away after your dip with our integrated on-deck freshwater station.

Sun/Shade Options

Ample covered seating for those seeking respite, and wide-open decks for the sun-seekers.

Dry Storage

Keep your gear, towels, and personal belongings safely out of the elements for the duration of your trip.

Specifications

Your Private Pacific Club

Charter the Hoku Kai exclusively and the ocean becomes yours. Choose your destinations, set your pace, and let us handle everything else. 

Our Guardians

Expertise Rooted in Aloha

Our crew are more than just captains and guides; they are passionate ocean lovers and stewards of the Hawaiian waters. With decades of local knowledge and a profound commitment to marine conservation and customer service, they are here to ensure your journey is one of the highlights of your vacation.

Photo of Ryan with a sunset on the boat.

Captain & Conservationist

Ryan Leinbach

20+ years on the Kona Coast. Former National Geographic underwater videographer, marine researcher, USCG 100-Ton captain, and Manta Ray ID specialist. Her guiding principle: witness, don’t disturb.

Ryan has spent over 20 years on and beneath the waters of the Kona Coast, first as an underwater videographer for National Geographic and the BBC, then as a marine researcher, and now as a US Coast Guard 100-Ton licensed captain. Here are some of her other qualifications:

  • Over 20 years of experience on and in the waters off the Kona Coast
  • United States Coast Guard 100 ton Captain
  • PADI Certified Assistant Instructor
  • American Red Cross CPR and First Aid Responder
  • Lifeguard
  • Professional Underwater Photographer and Videographer
  • Manta Pacific Id Specialist
  • Founding member of the Manta Ray Advocates
  • Photographer for all images on the website
  • Batchelor of Tourism and Recreation Management

Captain, Safety Guide & Co - Founder

Shari Sicsko

40 years on the water. Former head of one of the country’s largest female-owned yacht management companies. USCG 100-Ton captain, PADI Dive and Coral Reef Conservation Instructor, AIDA freediver, and lifeguard. The seamanship here runs deep.

Shari brings 40 years of experience above and below the water. Before co-founding Kona Coast Expeditions, she built and led one of the largest female-owned yacht management companies in the industry. Here are some of her other qualifications:

  • United States Coast Guard 100 ton captain
  • PADI Certified Dive Instructor
  • PADI Certified Coral Reef Conservation Instructor
  • AIDA Level 2 Free Diver
  • American Red Cross CPR/ First Aid Responder
  • Studies Internationally with various Shark and Manta Research Projects
  • Studies Internationally with Coral Restoration Projects
  • Lifeguard

Not Sure Which is Right for You?

We’re here to help you choose the perfect charter experience for your group.