Big Island, Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour with Iruka Hawaii Dolphin

This 2-hour Big Island tour offers a chance to swim with manta rays just off the shores of Kailua-Kona at an accessible price of $125 per person. The adventure is suitable for a wide range of participants, including non-swimmers, thanks to the option to view manta rays from a floating mat. All snorkeling equipment is provided, and the tour features free GoPro photos to capture your experience. The departure point, located at Iruka Hawaii Dolphin in Kailua-Kona, is easy to find, making this an attractive choice for those seeking a hassle-free night activity. The duration of around 2 hours leaves plenty of time for the rest of your evening to relax or explore.

The tour has received a perfect rating of 5.0 from 283 reviews and is recommended by 97% of participants, with many emphasizing the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the spectacular manta sightings. While most guests rave about the experience, some mention that rough water conditions can affect the trip, especially during less calm seasons. This tour is a popular, well-organized, option that balances value, safety, and memorable wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Price of $125 per person covers 2 hours of manta ray snorkeling, equipment, and photos
• Departure point located at Iruka Hawaii Dolphin in Kailua-Kona
• Option to snorkel or view from a floating mat, catering to different comfort levels
• All snorkeling gear is provided, with wet suits available for rent
• Post-snorkel hot cocoa and snacks included for warming up
• Private tour options available upon request

Kona’s Easy-to-Find Departure Point

The tour begins at Iruka Hawaii Dolphin, located at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy in Kailua-Kona. The spot is straightforward to locate, reducing logistical stress. Guests are greeted promptly, and the process for check-in is efficient, with friendly staff guiding you through the gear rental if needed. The meeting point’s accessibility makes this tour suitable for travelers staying nearby or arriving by cruise ship.

Snorkeling Equipment and Wet Suit Rentals

All snorkeling gear is included in the $125 tour price, ensuring you don’t need to bring your own mask or fins. For those who prefer extra warmth, wet suits are available for rent at $10 for adults and $5 for children. While most participants dive in with provided gear, having the option to rent a wet suit is helpful on cooler evenings or for comfort-conscious guests.

Sunset Departure and Marine Conditions

The tour departs in the evening, just as the sunset begins, providing a dramatic backdrop for your manta ray encounter. The captain chooses the best snorkeling spot based on ocean conditions, aiming for clear, calm waters. However, rough seas can sometimes lead to shortened trips or conditions that feel rushed, as some reviews suggest. It’s advisable to take seasick remedies an hour prior if you’re prone to seasickness.

The Manta Ray Encounter: Close and Majestic

Once anchored, the crew guides guests to a floating mat or into the water for snorkeling. The main highlight is observing giant manta rays gliding just inches below the surface, performing barrel rolls and flips. Reports consistently mention seeing multiple rays at once, sometimes up to 7 circling simultaneously, which creates a breathtaking scene. The rays are often unbelievably close, providing up-close views of these majestic creatures. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable crew for explaining manta behaviors and personalities, enriching the experience.

The Crew’s Expertise and Friendly Service

Guides like Trevor, Tracy, Tamae, Mitch, Lena, Scott, Diego, and Ryan earn high praise for their professionalism, kindness, and dedication. Reviewers highlight the crew’s ability to educate guests about marine life and make everyone feel comfortable, including children and non-swimmers. Several mention the crew’s fun sense of humor and attention to safety, which enhances overall enjoyment.

Post-Snorkel Comfort and Refreshments

After your snorkel or float from the mat, hot cocoa and snacks are served to help warm up and relax. Water and beverages are included during the trip, with guests welcome to bring their own drinks, but glass bottles are discouraged to ensure safety. This small but appreciated touch provides a cozy end to an exhilarating wildlife encounter.

Photos and Memories: Free GoPro Clips

A highlight of this tour is the inclusion of free photos and videos captured by the crew using GoPro cameras. Guests can look forward to sharing these memories long after the trip ends, without additional cost. Several reviews mention how helpful and generous the crew is in sharing these clips, making it easier to relive the experience.

Accessibility for Non-Swimmers

One of the tour’s standout features is its accommodations for non-swimmers. These guests can view the manta rays from a floating mat rather than swimming, making the tour accessible to all comfort levels. Crew members like Scott assist nervous participants, ensuring they feel safe and engaged. This inclusive approach is a key reason many families and first-time snorkelers choose this tour.

Private and Group Booking Options

While the tour is predominantly offered as a group activity, it is also available as a private charter upon request. This flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience, especially for special occasions or larger parties. Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of 22 days of lead time due to the tour’s popularity.

The Overall Experience and Value

The combination of spectacular wildlife sightings, friendly staff, and convenient logistics makes this Kona night snorkel tour a standout. Its high rating reflects consistent satisfaction from guests, many of whom describe it as the best activity during their trip. The $125 price includes almost everything needed for the adventure, with additional options for gear rental if desired. While weather conditions can influence the trip, the overall reliability and quality of the experience** shine through.

Risks and Considerations

The main consideration for potential participants is the possibility of rough waters, which could lead to a shortened or less comfortable experience. Guests prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly. Also, as the trip departs at sunset, timing is crucial for those looking to maximize wildlife encounters, and booking well in advance is advised due to high demand.

The Best Time for Manta Rays and Wildlife

While the tour operates year-round, some reviews note the potential to see whales from November to March. The primary focus remains on manta rays, which are present in the waters during the evening hours, providing a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle for wildlife enthusiasts.

Wrapping Up the Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel

This well-reviewed tour combines easy logistics with stunning wildlife sightings and friendly guides. It is ideal for adventurers of all skill levels, including those who prefer to stay dry and simply watch from a floating mat. The hot cocoa, photos, and knowledgeable crew enhance the experience, making it worthy of its high ratings.

While weather conditions can sometimes affect the trip’s length or flow, most guests leave with unforgettable memories of manta rays performing barrel rolls just inches away. The private options and inclusive gear rental further add to its appeal. For anyone seeking a safe, fun, and awe-inspiring night activity on the Big Island, this Kona manta ray snorkel deserves serious consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 hours, with the main activity focused on snorkel or floating viewings of manta rays.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, non-swimmers can comfortably view manta rays from a floating mat, and crew members offer assistance to nervous participants.

What is included in the price?
The $125 fee includes snorkeling equipment, hot cocoa and snacks, and free GoPro photos. Wet suits are available for rent at $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, private charters are available upon request, providing a customizable experience.

What should I bring?
Guests are encouraged to bring towels to dry off after snorkeling, and additional food or drinks are welcome (no glass bottles). Seasick remedies are recommended if prone.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?
The tour is dependent on good weather; if canceled, guests are offered a reschedule or full refund. Rough seas may lead to shortened trips or adjustments for safety.

When is the best time to see manta rays?
Evening hours around sunset are ideal, and whale sightings may occur November through March.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, including children, with assistance available for younger or less confident swimmers.

How do I find the meeting point?
The meeting point is Iruka Hawaii Dolphin at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy in Kailua-Kona, with clear directions provided upon booking.

Are gratuities included?
Tipping is not included but appreciated for excellent service. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness are often highlighted as a tour’s highlight.