Kailua-Kona: Manta Ray Night Snorkel SMALL GROUP

Experience the Unique Charm of Kailua-Kona’s Manta Ray Night Snorkel

The Kailua-Kona: Manta Ray Night Snorkel SMALL GROUP offers an exceptional chance to observe majestic manta rays up close in their natural environment. This 2-hour tour departs from Honokohau Harbor and is led by the experienced Captain Kris Henry. With a provider rating of 4.8, this tour provides a well-organized, intimate experience perfect for those seeking a memorable aquatic adventure.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of a sunset boat ride and the opportunity to snorkel at night amidst the glow of underwater lights that attract plankton and, consequently, the feeding manta rays. It’s an ideal activity for those comfortable with snorkeling and eager to witness these gentle giants in warm Hawaiian waters. Its small-group format ensures a more personalized and less crowded experience.

One important consideration is that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, or those over 264 lbs (120 kg). The meeting point at Honokohau Harbor is straightforward to find, with clear directions and free parking, making the logistics hassle-free. This tour blends nature, adventure, and education into an authentic Kona experience.

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Key Points

• 2-hour small-group tour led by Captain Kris Henry with a provider rating of 4.8
• Snorkel with manta rays during a guided night swim off the coast of Kailua-Kona
• Enjoy a sunset boat ride before slipping into the water to see feeding manta rays
• Attraction: manta rays with wingspans over 20 feet and weighing upward of 1,000 pounds
• Meeting point at Honokohau Harbor, with free parking and clear directions
• Age and health restrictions apply, making it suitable for most but not all travelers

Starting from Honokohau Harbor: Easy and Convenient Access

The tour begins at Honokohau Harbor, a well-known departure point for ocean excursions on the Big Island. After turning onto the harbor road, travelers are instructed to take their first right turn, pass the sign “The Yard”, and arrive at a large gravel parking lot where parking is free. This area features a brown roofed pavilion with bathrooms, conveniently located between the two boat ramps.

The departure times vary by season, so travelers should check availability and arrive 15 minutes prior to departure. The straightforward access makes this tour especially appealing for visitors unfamiliar with the area or those preferring hassle-free logistics.

Sunset and Boat Ride: Setting the Scene for Manta Encounters

The experience begins with a relaxing boat ride out into the waters off Kailua-Kona, where travelers can enjoy the spectacle of the setting sun. As the sky dims, the boat’s underwater lights are turned on, attracting plankton and creating a natural feeding ground for the manta rays.

This sunset phase sets a tranquil, almost mystical ambiance, preparing snorkelers for the main event. The boat ride itself is an essential part of the experience, offering scenic views and an opportunity to learn about the local marine environment from the live guide.

The Night Snorkel: Up Close with the Gentle Giants

After the sunset, travelers slip into the warm Hawaiian waters for approximately 30 to 45 minutes of snorkeling with the feeding manta rays. These graceful creatures glide effortlessly through the water, wingspan over 20 feet, weighing more than 1,000 pounds. Their feeding behavior is guided by the lights, which attract plankton, making it an active and mesmerizing encounter.

The guided nature of the tour helps participants learn about manta ray behavior and adaptations. This part of the tour appeals especially to those comfortable with snorkeling and looking for a true close-up experience in natural habitat.

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The Guide and Group Size: Personalized Attention

Led by Captain Kris Henry, the tour benefits from a small-group setting, ensuring more personalized guidance. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, providing educational insights about manta ray ecology and safety tips. The small-group format aides in maintaining a calm, intimate environment, which is ideal for appreciating the majestic movements of the rays.

Since the group size is limited, participants can expect a more relaxed and interactive environment, with ample opportunity to ask questions or seek guidance during the snorkeling.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point at Honokohau Harbor is easy to find with specific directions: after turning onto the harbor road, take the first right, pass “The Yard,” and look for the large gravel parking lot with free parking. The pavilion with bathrooms provides comfort and convenience before departure.

Travelers should arrive at least 15 minutes early and be prepared for seasonal departure times. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart issues, or those over 120 kg (264 lbs), due to physical demands and safety considerations.

Cost, Flexibility, and Cancellation Policy

This tour offers flexible booking options, such as reserve now, pay later. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for spontaneous or uncertain plans. The price reflects the value of a small-group, guided experience that combines scenic boat rides and close encounters with manta rays.

Comparing to Similar Experiences

This specific tour is comparable to others in the Kailua-Kona area, with similar night manta ray adventures available. Many options emphasize a guided experience with a focus on education and safety, but this tour’s small-group size and the expert guidance of Kris Henry set it apart.

Potential participants should review similar offerings to confirm the best fit for their preferences. The links provided show a variety of night and daytime snorkel tours, but this particular experience is distinguished by its intimate scale and combination of sunset and snorkel.

Final Words: Who Will Appreciate This Tour

The Kailua-Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel is ideal for adventurous snorkelers eager for an intimate encounter with graceful manta rays in warm Hawaiian waters. The small-group setting, combined with expert guidance, makes it especially suitable for those who prefer a personalized experience.

It offers a beautiful blend of sunset scenery, ocean adventure, and wildlife observation. While it has some physical restrictions, most snorkeling enthusiasts will find this tour both exciting and rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for this manta ray snorkel tour?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or those over 264 lbs (120 kg). No specific age restrictions are mentioned, but participants should be comfortable with snorkeling in open water.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should arrive 15 minutes early and are advised to bring sunscreen, a towel, and waterproof camera if desired. The tour provides guidance and equipment for snorkeling.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This offers flexibility if your travel plans shift unexpectedly.

How long is the snorkeling experience?
The snorkel with manta rays lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, providing ample time to observe these gentle creatures up close.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its small-group format, led by Captain Kris Henry, and the combination of sunset boat ride with night snorkeling make this a personalized and scenic experience for wildlife lovers.

Is the tour accessible for everyone?
The tour has specific restrictions, including for pregnant women, those with heart problems, and larger individuals. Travelers should assess their comfort and physical ability before booking.

Where exactly does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Honokohau Harbor, with clear directions to the large gravel parking lot near the pavilion.

How can I find out about departure times?
Departure times vary by season, so it’s best to check availability when booking. Arrive 15 minutes early to ensure smooth boarding.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Participants should be comfortable with snorkeling in open water; non-swimmers may not find this experience suitable unless they are confident in their ability to snorkel with gear.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby