The Island of Molokai shimmers in the distance off Maui's shores, a world apart from each other. A slower pace takes over and one is greeted by friendly people who enjoy sharing their history and tales of when people lived off the land and sea, not leaving the shores of their homes. The rugged terrain is sparsely developed and the landscape is reminiscent of ancient Hawaii. Molokai was home to a former leprosy (Hansen's disease) colony where tour guides tell heartbreaking stories of people banished from their homeland due to contracting the once incurable disease. The worst cases were sent to Kalaupapa and were confined to their dying day. Families were split apart, spouses unable to be with each other and some children torn from their parents arms are tales from this area.

The location on the island was chosen since it was impossible to leave. In the 1850's, ships would drop anchor in the harbor and the ill would be placed in rafts headed for shore. Some made it to land, some didn't. In 1873, Father Damien, a Catholic Priest, arrived and there are many stories about him and his love for the residents of Kalaupapa.

The Molokai Princess, a 100 foot yacht that cruises at more than 20 miles an hour, takes 75 minutes to get to the island.

The guided van tour stops at Kalaupapa Overlook, visits a coffee plantation and the Purdy macadamia nut farm, tours the Hawaiian fishponds and ancient religious sites. The macadamia nut farm tour is fascinating. Mr. Purdy explains how the nuts are grown and harvested with samples to taste. This tour includes a continental breakfast, tour bus, inter-island yacht transportation.

Adult           Child 4 - 12            Infant/Child 0 - 3
$ 160         $ 120                    free