Overview
We cruise from Keauhou harbor out into crystal clear blue waters. While the boat is underway, the crew will point out interesting features along the Kona coastline, which is rich in Hawaiian history. South Kona has a bevy of historically significant Hawaiian Heritage sites, full of mana (spiritual power). Staying close to the Kona coast as we travel south towards Kealakekua Bay, we watch closely for any interesting marine life.
We may stop the boat to enjoy the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) putting on a show. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins rest close to shore during the day and will sometimes interact with the boat, bow-riding and playing in our wake.
After a brief show from the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback whales, and whatever else of interest is found along our way, we arrive at the world-famous Kealakekua Bay, the site of the Captain James Cook monument.
After snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay for about an hour and a half, we start heading back to the harbor.
Itinerary
Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, the site of the Captain Cook Monument on The Big Island of Hawaii, in a small-group experience.
Kealakekua Bay is a protected marine sanctuary, boasting arguably the best snorkeling in the entire state of Hawaii.
Due to the state's environmental protections, Kealakekua Bay boasts an abundance of marine life that includes Nai'a (Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins), Caluiflower Coral, Yellow Tang fish, pencil urchin, and dozens of other marine species that call the bay home.
Your tour will include a maximim of 12 passengers, which is a more private experience than the "cattle boats" in Kona that carry 100 passengers or more.
By being part of a smaller group, it's quicker for the group to enter and exit the boat, which allows for more time snorkeling on the beautiful coral reef.
On our way to and from Kealakekua Bay, our Captain and crew will point out historically and culturally significant areas of the Kona coast.
We often see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and humpback whales (during the winter) on this tour!
What's Included
Inclusions
- Island sourced pineapple and chips
- Bottled water
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
- Nonalcoholic refreshments
Exclusions
- Bring your own towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and waterproof camera
- Hotel pick-up and drop off
- Meals
Meeting & Logistics
Meet us near the boat ramp at Keauhou Harbor.
Meeting Point
Hawaii
Special Instructions
Please arrive at Keauhou Harbor 15 minutes prior to your scheduled time of departure. Keauhou Harbor is located at 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740. At the time of departure, we will guide you to the boat ramp, where Pueo Kai 2, our 27' Force Marine, will be waiting. We recommend you apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding the boat. We also recommend bringing a towel, hat, and sunglasses. A ticket is required for all passengers, regardless of passenger age or whether they will be entering the water. Our boat is certified by the US Coast Guard for 12 passengers, and we can not exceed this limit. The minimum age for this tour is three years old.
Photos
Small-Group Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay in Captain Cook, Big Island Photos
View more images from this activity before choosing your date.
Additional Info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Must be able to swim without the assistance of a floatation device.
- Maximum weight of 280 pounds per traveler.
- Children 7 and older are welcome on the tour if they can comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean.
- Our boat is certified by the US Coast Guard for 12 passengers, and we can not exceed this limit.
- For safety purposes, if you can not comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean, we ask that you purchase a ticket to ride along on the boat, but not enter the water.
- Not recommended for travelers with neck problems
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
