Big Kahuna Makes a Big Splash at Canalside

By Karen Fashana

Published on | Last Updated

An island escape sounds pretty good right about now. Ideally, I’d be watching the sun set over the water while I soak up some rays, with an umbrella drink in hand. The problem is…well, we all know what the problem is. So just as my Caribbean dreams begin to fade, here comes the Big Kahuna Tiki Boat to deliver on that slice of paradise.

Canalside’s newest addition to the water is run by the same family who operates some of our favorite water-based attractions – the Spirit of Buffalo, Buffalo River History Tours and (during non-COVID times) the Queen City Bike Ferry. The Hilliman family knows their way around a boat and more importantly, knows how to throw a party! Enter: The Big Kahuna Tiki Boat. The name just sounds like a party, doesn’t it? Hop aboard, close your eyes, feel the breeze and let that Marley song take you away. But don’t close your eyes too long, you don’t want to miss the view! The Big Kahuna is your floatation for fun. They offer two types of tour experiences – the Tiki Harbor Cruise and the Family Tiki Cruise. If you’re over 21, looking to kick back on the water with a few friends, listen to some Caribbean beats, all while sipping on a Hawaiian cocktail, then the Tiki Harbor Cruise is just the ticket. $23 gets you onboard for an evening of overdue fun in the fresh air.

Now if you’re looking to entertain the kids with something other than your swing set, as you’ve been doing for the last four months, sign up for the Family Tiki Cruise. It sets sail every afternoon for an hour-long cruise at 2pm. Prices are affordable for families – $16 for adults and $10 for kids. Little ones under three are free. Oh and best of all, there’s a bathroom on board (a must-have for any kid outing!) Make the most of what’s left of the summer by enjoying one of Buffalo’s best features — our waterfront.

* The Big Kahuna can hold 48 passengers onboard but will be limited to 20 to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Masks must be worn as you move about the boat.

Big Kahuna Tiki Tours | 44 Prime Street, Buffalo | (716) 796-4556 | bigkahunatikitours.com | Facebook

Karen Fashana headshot

Karen Fashana

Lifelong Buffalonian with a crazy passion for this city. My job as the Vice President of Marketing at Visit Buffalo Niagara is a match made in heaven. Go Bills!