The Na Pali Coast of Kaua‘i is one of the most spectacular stretches of coastline on Earth, a place where towering emerald cliffs meet sapphire waters, waterfalls cascade into the sea, and golden beaches remain untouched by modern development. For Yonder customer Na Pali Experience, this natural wonder isn’t just a backdrop for tours; it’s a living treasure to be protected.
We were grateful to learn more from Nathaniel Fisher, the owner and captain of Na Pali Experience, as he shared his team vision and ethos.
“The smaller the footprint we make, the better, especially in an area so clean and beautiful,” Nathaniel explains. “We strive to keep it that way and inspire others to do the same.”
Na Pali Experience has transformed how marine operators can run responsibly on Kaua‘i’s west coast.
Their foil-assist power catamarans improve fuel efficiency by up to 30%, minimizing emissions and wake impact on delicate marine ecosystems.
They’ve also eliminated single-use plastics entirely, from behind-the-scenes operations to guest experiences, and digitized all daily paperwork.
Behind these changes lies a simple philosophy: do what’s right, not what’s easy.
The team doesn’t chase awards or recognition – even this Yonder interview took place in the spare moments onshore between sailing trips! Their decisions are guided by conscience and genuine respect for the land and sea.
Unlike many businesses that struggle to adopt new practices, Na Pali Experience credits their success to a like-minded crew:
“Our team is so like-minded, there haven't been many challenges at all adjusting to new practices as ideas come – because we all think alike and want to be the best we can be out there. It makes us feel good about our role, and we can tell our customers appreciate it too”
This shared vision has created an environment where innovation comes naturally. The company’s investment in foil-assist technology across all six boats and a custom water purification system has eliminated plastic water bottles entirely — innovations that are virtually unmatched in the region.
Na Pali Experience’s sense of stewardship extends beyond the shoreline. Over the past 15 years, the team has founded two nonprofit organizations to support the environment and community:
Kikia‘ola Boaters Alliance, which fosters collaboration among commercial and recreational harbor users, improving harmony and stewardship in shared marine spaces.
Adopt Na Pali, an annual or bi-annual cleanup effort that removes marine debris from the remote 17-mile coastline, keeping one of Hawai‘i’s most rugged and revered places pristine.
Their community impact doesn’t stop there. The company participates in Adopt-A-Highway, and regularly donates to youth programs and local boat club tournaments - believing that investing in children builds the next generation of ocean stewards.
Respect for Hawai‘i’s rich heritage also runs through every tour. Guides weave together stories of history, geology, and culture, ensuring each narrative is accurate, respectful, and engaging. It’s a balance of entertainment and education; one that deepens visitors’ connection to the island and its people.
Na Pali Experience is looking ahead to the next wave of innovation - electric propulsion.
“We suspect that within ten years, outboard engines will go electric, and we’re eager to get onboard with that. Quiet with no fuel burn — yes, please.”
For them, sustainability isn’t a trend; it’s an ongoing pursuit. “Once you make moves in the sustainable direction, you realize how addicting it is to want to continue,” Nathaniel says.
The Na Pali Experience’s commitment to sustainability and environmentalism has contributed to a broader movement across Kaua‘i’s boating industry. Competitors are rising to meet new benchmarks, creating a circle of wins that benefit the planet, builds customer trust, and strengthens everyone’s business.
“Do it because you should want to be the very best you can be — for both your environment and your customers. You’ll have a better conscience and more pride in your product, guaranteed.”
Yonder is proud to work alongside eco-tourism experts like Nathaniel and the Na Pali Experience team. Environmental stewardship is at the heart of tourism, so supporting our community with a suite of carbon-friendly AI tools is a key focus of Yonder.
For more information on Na Pali Experience and the work they do, head to their website and say hi.
For more information on what we do, reach out to the Yonder team.
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