I know I've been on those tours where the instructors seem like they just punching the clock, reading a script and going through the motions to collect a paycheck but, Kayak Kauai and our amazing instructors, Jay & T, we're NOT THAT!!!. These guys ensued we were cared for, engaged and safe for the duration of our entire trip! From arriving at the Harbor and introductions, to finishing up and send offs, they were thoughtful, professional and knowledgeable! We started with a kayak launch in Hanalei Bay and a safely briefing. Then we had a VERY relaxing paddle up the Hanalei river, to the dolphin restaurant. All the while getting great facts and information. They were also great about answering our somewhat off topic questions. Upon reaching the restaurant, we turned around and leisurely paddled back to Hanalei Bay. All the while both our guides were assessing our kayaking skills and abilities for our second leg. We headed out into Hanalei Bay, with Jay at the front and T at the back and all of us feeling very comfortable with them constantly instructing us and giving us pointers. When we rounded the cape the wind picked up, but we persevered and made it to hideaway Beach. It was THE BEST SNORKELING WE HAD IN OUR ENTIRE 9 DAY TRIP!!! Half a dozen sea turtles, hundreds of fish and so much fun!!! We we had a little over an hour to relax and have lunch that was provided, sandwiches, chips, cookie, fresh cut pineapple and both water or local juice drinks. Once we relaxed, snorkeled and swam, we jumped back into our kayaks and had the COOLEST water launch back into the water! With the wind at our back, the trip home was very easy. We even road a couple of waves with the kayaks back into the river landing. One of the best parts of the trip were talking with two very authentic local guides that made the trip so enjoyable we will NEVER go anywhere else for kayaking in Kauai and will most certainly ask for Jay and T by name! The trip with kids from 6 to 16 with us, we felt both relaxed and challenged on this trip. They have set the GOLD STANDARD and we'll most certainly be coming back to Kayak Kauai again for their other excursions!!! Do yourself a favor and give them a call!