Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

The Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument offers an engaging way to explore the Kona coastline on the Big Island of Hawaii. Priced at $136.19 per person, this 3-hour tour departs from Keauhou Bay at 1:45 pm and takes you to the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, home to the famous Captain Cook Monument. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 673 reviews, and 98% recommending this experience, it clearly appeals to those seeking a combination of scenic sailing, marine life encounters, and Hawaiian cultural moments.

This tour is ideal for anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, especially if you value guided snorkeling with equipment provided, snacks, and the chance to see dolphins and whales. A key strength is the friendly, attentive crew praised for their professionalism and safety focus. The only consideration might be group size, capped at 44 travelers, which ensures a more personal experience.

Key Points

• 3-hour afternoon tour departing from Keauhou Bay at 1:45 pm
• Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, near the Captain Cook Monument
• Includes snorkeling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, snacks, and filtered water
• Opportunity to see whales, dolphins, and vibrant marine life (depending on the season)
• Crew praised for friendliness, knowledge, and safety with helpful instructions
• Alcoholic beverages available for purchase onboard

Scenic Sailing Along the Kona Coast with Wildlife Encounters

The tour begins at Keauhou Bay, where the catamaran departs for a scenic sail along the Kona coastline. During the roughly three hours, you will enjoy beautiful views of ancient lava flows and lush cliffs that define the Hawaii landscape. The boat is well-maintained, with friendly staff making sure everyone feels comfortable.

As you glide over the water, the crew often slows the boat to allow for wildlife viewing. Several reviews mention seeing breaching whales and spinner dolphins, providing memorable moments even before reaching the snorkel sites. The balmy breeze and the sea spray make for a refreshing and peaceful journey.

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve

The highlight of this experience is the snorkeling stop at the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve. This protected area is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. The Captain Cook Monument, situated within the bay, is the focal point for underwater exploration.

For about one hour, snorkelers can observe colorful schools of fish, living coral, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat. The guided commentary provides insights into the flora and fauna of the bay, enriching the experience and making it suitable for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. The equipment—masks, fins, snorkels, and flotation noodles—is included, and reef-safe sunscreen helps protect the delicate ecosystem.

The Captain Cook Monument and Its Underwater World

The Captain Cook Monument is accessible directly from the boat or by swimming to the underwater surroundings. This historic site is set in a marine sanctuary, where waters are pristine and teeming with marine biodiversity. The guides often discuss the area’s ocean ecosystem, adding depth to the underwater adventure.

Visitors frequently mention the vivid fish and coral formations, making snorkeling here a vivid, colorful experience. The calm, protected waters make it an inviting spot for first-time snorkelers or those looking for a relaxing swim amidst Hawaii’s natural beauty.

Onboard Amenities and Cultural Highlights

The boat features light snacks such as chips, fruit, and beverages, providing energy for the afternoon. The snacks are enough to keep everyone satisfied without feeling overly full. Plus, the crew offers reef-safe sunscreen and filtered water—small touches that show care for both guest comfort and environmental responsibility.

An especially praised aspect is the pre-swim Hawaiian song and ceremony. This moment offers a cultural touchstone, connecting guests with the local traditions and adding a spiritual dimension to the trip.

Safety and Comfort for All Travelers

Safety is a top priority on this tour, with the crew praised for their attentiveness and patience, especially for first-time snorkelers or those with less swimming experience. The floatation noodles and clear instructions help reduce anxiety and encourage everyone to enjoy the water confidently.

A few reviews mention space on the boat, noting that the spacious bathroom enhances comfort. The group size, with a cap at 44 people, ensures a personalized experience and avoids overcrowding at the snorkel sites.

Wildlife Encounters: Whales, Dolphins, and More

A notable feature of this tour is the possibility of wildlife sightings. During the months when humpback whales migrate, guests often see whale breaches and tail slaps on the way to or from the bay. Dolphins are frequently seen, with spinner dolphins sometimes spinning through the air over the boat.

One review specifically mentions a baby whale and mother splashing near the port, which the crew slows the boat to respect. These unpredictable wildlife moments add a special touch to the experience, making each trip unique.

The Crew’s Expertise and Friendly Service

The crew members are consistently highlighted for their knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism. They provide helpful instructions for snorkeling, especially for beginners, and answer questions thoroughly. Their positive attitude and attentiveness ensure guests feel safe and cared for throughout.

Some reviews mention captain Ro and her musical and cultural contributions, like singing and conducting Hawaiian offerings, which enrich the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Participants

Guests are advised to use reef-safe sunscreen—which the boat provides—to protect Hawaii’s coral reefs. Bringing towels is recommended, as it’s not provided onboard. Gratuities are customary but not included in the price; tipping is appreciated for excellent service.

The meeting point at Keauhou Bay is accessible, and most travelers can participate unless there are specific health or mobility concerns. The tour requires good weather for optimal enjoyment, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

The Overall Value and Experience

This tour offers a good balance of sailing, snorkeling, and culture at a fair price. The reviews consistently praise the friendly crew, quality snorkel gear, and the spectacular marine sights—particularly the whales and dolphins.

The opportunity to see the Captain Cook Monument in its marine sanctuary setting, combined with the comfortable boat, makes this a worthwhile choice for both first-timers and seasoned snorkelers.

Final Thoughts on the Afternoon Sail & Snorkel Tour

For those looking for a well-rounded afternoon adventure on the Big Island, this Sea Paradise tour provides stunning coastal vistas, marine life encounters, and cultural moments like Hawaiian chants. The 3-hour duration keeps it accessible without feeling rushed, and the high guest ratings reflect consistent satisfaction.

The limited group size enhances the experience, and the friendly crew go above and beyond to ensure safety and fun. The only potential downside is that alcoholic drinks are additional cost and not included, but the snacks and refreshments onboard are perfectly adequate.

The Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument offers a memorable and value-rich way to enjoy Hawaii’s oceanic wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 1:45 pm and returning to Keauhou Bay.

What is included in the price?
Guests receive snorkeling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, snacks such as chips and fruit, filtered water, and guided snorkeling near the Captain Cook Monument.

Are there any age or physical restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for beginners, thanks to the helpful crew and floatation devices. Specific restrictions are not detailed, but most people should be able to enjoy this experience.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, depending on the season, guests often see humpback whales, including breaching or tail slapping, during the sail to and from the bay.

Is there an opportunity for cultural learning?
Yes, the crew conducts a Hawaiian song and ceremony before entering the water, offering a cultural moment that many guests find meaningful.

What should I bring?
Bring towels, reef-safe sunscreen (although provided), and possibly cash or card if you wish to purchase alcoholic beverages onboard.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather dependent, and cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 44 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated for excellent service.

How do I book?
The tour is typically booked 22 days in advance and features a mobile ticket for convenience.

Where exactly do I meet?
The meeting point is at Keauhou Bay, Kahaluu-Keauhou, HI 96740.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is operated by Sea Paradise, contactable at +18083222500 or via [email protected].