Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel and Sail

Discover the Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Sail Adventure on Big Island

The Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel and Sail offers an engaging 3.5-hour experience that combines sailing along the Kona coast with exceptional snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, home to the famous Captain Cook Monument. Priced at $189 per person, this tour is ideal for those eager to explore marine life, enjoy scenic views, and learn about Hawaiian history—all in a comfortably small group capped at 38 travelers.

Departing from KONASTYLE Hawaii’s meeting point in Kailua-Kona, the tour emphasizes a friendly, professional crew, including a captain known for humor and attentiveness. The tour is suitable for guests with moderate physical fitness, and children over 5 are welcome but must stay on the boat if under 5 years old. Including all snorkel equipment, reef-safe sunscreen, lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages, this trip offers a well-rounded, relaxing day on the ocean.

While the tour’s full experience underscores its high ratings and glowing reviews, it’s best suited for those comfortable swimming and seeking a combination of marine adventure and cultural storytelling. The trip’s only potential consideration: alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, and towels are not included, so plan accordingly.

Key Points

• Price of $189 per person for a 3.5-hour coastal sail and snorkel adventure
• Includes all snorkel equipment, reef-safe sunscreen, and lunch with deli sandwiches, pasta salad, and chips
• Stops at the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay, renowned for clear waters and vibrant marine life
• Sailing along the Kona coast offers scenic views and unique landmarks only visible from the water
• Limited to 38 guests, ensuring a less crowded, more personal experience
• Suitable for swimmers with moderate fitness, children over 5, and those interested in Hawaiian history and marine ecosystems

Starting Point and Trip Logistics

The tour departs at 12:30 pm from KONASTYLE Hawaii, located at 75-5660 Palani Rd Ste C8, Kailua-Kona. Guests are advised to check in 30 minutes prior to departure, allowing time for parking validation at the nearby Courtyard Marriott King Kamehameha Hotel for $13. The boat returns to the same meeting point after the trip concludes, making for straightforward logistics.

Because the tour includes time in the water, guests must know how to swim without assistance; guests unable to swim are directed to stay on the vessel, with no refund if they choose not to participate in snorkeling. The tour is also suitable for those with moderate physical fitness but may not be ideal for individuals with mobility limitations.

Highlights of Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument

The main stop in Kealakekua Bay features snorkeling in marine sanctuary waters known for their abundance of tropical fish, coral structures, and warm water temperatures. The Captain Cook Monument is the focal point of this stop, visible only from the water, and provides a striking backdrop for photos and a chance to see the bay’s marine environment up close.

This area is particularly praised for its crystal-clear water, which makes the snorkeling especially rewarding. The crew shares stories and insights about the historical significance of Captain Cook and the surrounding landmarks as the boat sails to and from the bay.

The Boat and Crew: Safety, Comfort, and Expertise

The vessel used for this tour is a well-maintained catamaran, praised for its cleanliness and organized setup. The crew is often described as friendly, helpful, and highly knowledgeable, with several reviews highlighting Captain Dan’s humor and leadership. The crew’s attentiveness extends to providing detailed instructions for snorkeling, ensuring guests feel comfortable and safe.

The small group size enhances the experience, making it less crowded during snorkeling and allowing for more personalized attention. The crew’s Hawaiian traditions knowledge adds depth to the journey, making the cultural stops more meaningful.

The Lunch and Beverage Offerings

After snorkeling, guests enjoy a deli-style lunch featuring fresh sandwiches, pasta salad, and chips. All non-alcoholic drinks are included, and the crew offers beer, wine, or spirits for purchase if guests wish to continue relaxing with a drink.

While towels are not provided, the included reef-safe sunscreen helps protect your skin while in the water. The food quality is consistently praised as delicious and satisfying, adding to the overall value of this tour.

Sights and Landmarks Visible from the Water

During the sailing portions of the trip, the crew points out scenic spots and unique landmarks only visible from the ocean. These include notable coastline features and private cultural sites, enriching the experience beyond the snorkeling.

The scenic sailing offers opportunities for photography and simply soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the Kona coast. The combination of sailing, sightseeing, and marine exploration makes this tour well-rounded.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Guests should be comfortable swimming and have moderate physical fitness to fully enjoy the snorkeling experience. Children under 5 are not permitted in the water but can stay on the boat under adult supervision. The boat’s design and crew instructions aim to maximize safety, though guests with mobility limitations should consider this before booking.

The tour does not include towels, so travelers are advised to bring their own if desired. Weather conditions can influence the experience, but the tour offers full refunds or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.

Why This Tour Excels in Reviews

Multiple reviews praise the friendly crew, well-kept vessel, and stunning marine environment. The small group setting ensures a less crowded snorkeling experience, which many find enhances their enjoyment.

In particular, travelers highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of the crew, including Captain Dan’s humor, as key contributors to a fun and informative trip. The quality of the snorkeling, combined with the unique cultural and scenic stops, makes this tour a favorite among repeat visitors.

Limitations and Considerations

The tour does not include alcoholic beverages, which are available for purchase, so guests should plan accordingly. Towels are not provided, so bringing a personal towel is recommended.

Plus, guests must know how to swim to participate in the water activities, which is explicitly emphasized for safety reasons. The maximum group size of 38 helps maintain a relaxed atmosphere but could still be busy during peak times.

Ideal Audience for the Kealakekua Snorkel and Sail

This experience is perfect for families with older children, couples, and group travelers seeking an active yet comfortable day on the water. The mix of snorkeling, sailing, scenic views, and cultural storytelling appeals to a broad range of interests.

Those who appreciate friendly crews, delicious food, and stunning marine environments will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking for a well-organized, enjoyable activity that showcases Hawaii’s natural beauty and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $189 per person.

How long is the trip?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from 75-5660 Palani Rd Ste C8, Kailua-Kona at 12:30 pm.

What is included in the price?
All snorkel equipment, reef-safe sunscreen, lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages are included. Fees and taxes are covered too.

Are alcoholic drinks available?
Yes, beer, wine, and spirits are available for purchase during the trip.

Is snorkeling suitable for everyone?
Guests must know how to swim without assistance, and children over 5 are welcome. Those not comfortable swimming are not allowed in the water.

What should I bring?
Travelers should bring towels if desired, as they are not provided. It’s also wise to wear sun protection and bring any personal dietary restrictions in advance.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 38 guests can participate in this tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the trip are non-refundable.

Who operates the tour?
This experience is provided by Kona Style.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
Guests should have moderate physical fitness and be able to comfortably board and disembark the vessel.