How to have breakfast on ‘The White Lotus’ yacht Mia Via in Hawaii
The Vida Mia starring in Season 1 of ‘The White Lotus’ — Photo courtesy of Vida Mia LLC
The HBO Original comedy-drama series “The White Lotus” has introduced fans to the lush landscapes of Hawaii in Season 1, Italy in Season 2, and now Thailand in Season 3. In the wake of each season, these filming locations see a swell of visitors seeking a slice of paradise — minus the plot twists.
While many fans flock to the real-life resorts that doubled as the fictional hotel, Lotus lovers in Hawaii can embark on a dreamy cruise aboard the historic Vida Mia. This fully renovated commercial wooden yacht was featured in several Season 1 scenes, transporting guests of the posh beachfront resort. (In real life, that resort is the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, voted among the 10 best waterfront resorts in the U.S.)
Operating out of the Ala Wai small boat harbor in Waikiki, the Vida Mia offers private charters, including snorkel activities with catered meals, sunset cruises with live music, weddings, and custom cruises with overnight stays. In partnership with Oceanside Bakery and Honolulu Coffee Company, Vida Mia also offers the ultimate coffee and breakfast cruise.
Breakfast of champions on the Vida Mia — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini
The Vida Mia morning breakfast cruise departs the marina at 7 a.m. Stepping onto the yacht, guests immediately get a sense of tranquility and morning calm.
“I think what makes this cruise really special is that there are no other boats out on the ocean so early,” says Vida Mia owner Brynn Rovito. “It’s all very quiet, and there’s no water traffic. It’s lovely to be able to appreciate the beautiful sunrise and see the island from a different vantage point.”
The history of Vida Mia
Vida Mia’s fully restored and cozy interior — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini
As Hawaii’s only commercial wooden yacht, the Vida Mia (which means “My Life” in Spanish) is a classic, 61-foot sailing vessel that was built in the 1920s. It’s been completely refurbished inside and out and brought back to its original elegance. This luxury cruise experience is unique, as it blends vintage yachting with modern comforts, featuring an exquisite boat with a stunning teakwood interior that includes a kitchen, living space, bathrooms, and two bedrooms.
Those who are seeking an exclusive, upscale activity on the water will appreciate a relaxing cruise aboard this century-old boat that invites guests to take a step back in time and enjoy the breathtaking views of Waikiki and majestic Diamond Head.
Vida Mia during a sunrise Coffee Cruise — Photo courtesy of Marla Cimini
The Vida Mia yacht has quite a storied past. It was commandeered by the U.S. Coast Guard in San Francisco Bay during WWII. A number of celebrities, including Elizabeth Taylor and Louis Vuitton, used the yacht as a mode of transportation between the Hawaiian Islands. Eventually, the Vida Mia was docked on Maui and left unused for years. The boat’s eventual restoration spanned several years. Rovito was involved with some of the restoration and says the yacht features many original and newly rebuilt parts.
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Post-cruise coffee adventure
In addition to enjoying this sunrise coffee cruise, visitors to Oahu should head over to the nearby Honolulu Coffee Experience Center. This stunning café features a beautifully designed interior and a vintage 1940s Probat coffee roaster as its centerpiece. It’s 12 feet high (with pipes soaring through the ceiling) and was imported from Germany. In addition to a full menu of coffee, teas, pastries, and light bites, the Honolulu Coffee Experience Center offers a self-guided tour showcasing the history of coffee in the islands.
