Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour Including Lunch

Key Points

• Luxury boat experience with theater-style seating, arm and headrests, and spacious, comfortable seats
• Visits to four prime snorkeling locations, including Kealakekua Bay and remote areas like Pali Kaholo
• Includes a delicious plant-based breakfast and lunch, served onboard to keep energy high
• All snorkeling gear and stand-up paddleboards provided, with reef-safe mineral sunscreen included
• Tour departs from Keauhou Harbor at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 5 hours
• Highly rated with a perfect 5.0/5 based on 295 reviews, praised for crew friendliness and scenic spots

The Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour offers a lavish way to explore the underwater beauty of the Big Island. Priced at $204.84 per person, this 5-hour adventure combines comfort, stunning scenery, and excellent marine encounters. It departs from Keauhou Harbor, an area rich in Hawaiian history, and is suited for those who appreciate a relaxed, high-end experience with high-quality amenities.

The Luxury Boat and Seating Arrangements

The tour takes place on the Hula Kai, a vessel designed for comfort and style. Each guest benefits from theater-style seating with arm and headrests, making the cruise a relaxing part of the adventure. The boat’s spacious layout ensures that everyone has a prime seat, and the clean, well-maintained environment receives consistent praise from previous guests.

The crew is lifeguard-certified, emphasizing safety and professionalism. They assist with snorkel gear and are known for their friendly, respectful attitude towards varying skill levels. Such thoughtful service makes the experience accessible for snorkelers with all levels of experience, provided they are comfortable in the water.

Exploring the South Kona Coast’s Top Snorkeling Spots

This tour visits up to four distinctive snorkeling locations, weather permitting, offering a variety of underwater scenery. The itinerary features Kealakekua Bay, Pali Kaholo with Robs Reef and Turtle Rock, Puu Ohau, and the remote Pali Kaholo region.

Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument

A highlight is Kealakekua Bay, renowned as one of Hawaii’s top snorkeling sites. Its natural wind protection and remote location contribute to its clear waters and abundant marine life. The bay is also the site of the Captain Cook Monument, which you view from the boat and while snorkeling. This location is part of a marine sanctuary and underwater state park, making it a favorite among snorkelers for seeing large fish, turtles, and vibrant coral.

Pali Kaholo: Robs Reef and Turtle Rock

Located about 10 miles south of Kealakekua Bay, Pali Kaholo often features during this tour depending on weather. Robs Reef impresses with its underwater sea arches and caves, attracting lots of tropical fish and a school of Pyramid Butterflyfish, which are rarely seen in shallower waters. Turtle Rock is named after the Green Sea Turtles frequently found resting there. The vibrant contrast of coral and black sand adds visual interest to this area.

Puu Ohau and Its Historical Significance

Puu Ohau, or Red Hill, is a large volcanic cinder cone offering excellent snorkeling among reefs teeming with marine life. Its historical significance as the burial site of High Chiefess Kamaeokalani adds a cultural layer, although access depends on weather conditions. Its reefs are known for large fish and diverse coral, making it another rewarding stop.

Flexibility Based on Weather Conditions

The tour emphasizes weather dependence for its stops, ensuring safety and optimal viewing experiences. If conditions are unfavorable at one location, the captain may select an alternative site from the planned options. This flexibility helps maintain a high standard of snorkeling quality across different days.

All-Inclusive Amenities and Sustainable Practices

Included in the tour are plant-based tropical breakfast and lunch, designed to energize guests for the day. The meals are praised for their quality and flavor, appealing even to those not strictly vegan. Alongside meals, the tour provides snorkel equipment, stand-up paddleboards, and limited flotation devices, all of which are reef-safe mineral sunscreen to protect Hawaii’s marine environment.

Guests also enjoy fresh water showers and access to two restrooms onboard, enhancing comfort during the trip. The small group size—a maximum of 40 travelers—keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should have moderate physical fitness and be able to swim independently with prior snorkeling experience. All guests must be 7 years or older, and children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour does not permit full-face snorkel masks, aligning with safety standards.

While accessible to many, the tour’s duration and water activity suggest that guests comfortable in the water and with moderate mobility will have the best experience.

Meeting Point, Timing, and Booking Details

The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am at 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street in Kailua-Kona. From booking to departure, average advance notice is about 35 days, reflecting strong demand. The experience includes a mobile ticket for convenience.

Guests should plan their transportation to the meeting point, as transportation is not included. The tour’s duration is approximately 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing that fits well into a Big Island itinerary.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The combination of luxury amenities, delicious plant-based meals, and multiple prime snorkeling sites distinguishes this tour from more basic options. The focus on comfort, environmental sustainability, and scenic exploration appeals to travelers seeking a high-quality, hassle-free experience.

The positive reviews, with a perfect rating of 5.0/5, highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew, beautiful snorkeling spots, and excellent food. Many comments emphasize the comfortable boat seating and the variety of marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, turtles, and abundant tropical fish.

Final Thoughts on the Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded, high-end snorkeling experience on the Big Island. The luxury boat, premium amenities, and diverse snorkeling locations create a memorable day. The included gourmet plant-based meals are an added bonus, ensuring guests stay energized while enjoying Hawaii’s marine beauty.

While weather can influence the itinerary, the safety and quality of snorkeling are prioritized, making this a reliable choice for those seeking comfort, scenic diversity, and excellent service. Suitable for those with some swimming experience and a taste for relaxed luxury, this tour delivers a premium look at the Kona Coast’s underwater wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 7 years and older can participate, but they should be comfortable in the water and have prior snorkeling experience. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests need only bring themselves, a swimsuit, and a towel. The tour provides reef-safe mineral sunscreen, snorkel gear, stand-up paddleboards, and limited flotation devices.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather dependent. If conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund. The captain will select the best snorkeling spots based on the weather.

How early should I book?
Booking about 35 days in advance is typical, reflecting high demand. Early reservation helps secure a prime seat and preferred date.

Are meals included?
Yes, plant-based breakfast and lunch are included, praised for their quality. No additional food or drinks are necessary unless you wish to purchase from the onboard bar, which is not included.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, guests are responsible for arriving at 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street in Kailua-Kona for the 9:00 am departure.