Big Island: Kona Super Raft Sunset Cruise

Discover the Kona Super Raft Sunset Cruise for an Unforgettable Evening

The Big Island: Kona Super Raft Sunset Cruise offers a unique way to enjoy the stunning Kona coast. Priced at $130 per person and lasting just 2.5 hours, this tour combines luxury and adventure on a super raft with a scenic sunset sail. It departs from the Body Glove Cruises location in Kailua Kona, making it easily accessible for visitors staying nearby. The tour is designed for those who appreciate panoramic views, marine wildlife, and good food, all within a relatively short experience that captures the essence of an Hawaiian evening.

This cruise stands out for its comfortable and innovative super raft, its three delicious dinner choices, and the insightful crew that shares stories about the area. While it caters best to those over 5 years old due to safety considerations, it offers an intimate experience with the option to reserve and pay later, providing flexibility for travelers.

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Key Points

• Luxury super raft offers a stable, fun platform for viewing the coast.
• Sunset views provide vibrant colors over the Big Island.
• Three dinner options include Kalua Pork, Spicy Ahi Poke, and Vegan Curry.
• Marine sightings like dolphins, whales, stingrays, and parrots are common.
• Meet at Ilima Court Shopping Center with free parking, 30 minutes before departure.
• No hotel pickup included, so plan to arrive at the meeting point.

Departure from Kailua Kona and Meeting Arrangements

The tour departs from the Kailua Kona area at the Body Glove Cruises Retail Store, located at 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy. at the Ilima Court Shopping Center. Check-in occurs 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, with free parking available at the meeting spot. The Kona Explorer leaves from the left side of Kailua Kona Pier, which is within walking distance from the shopping center. Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, travelers should plan their transportation accordingly.

The Unique Super Raft Experience

Unlike traditional boats, the super raft used for this cruise provides a stable and spacious platform ideal for sightseeing and photography. Its luxury features enhance comfort during the scenic sail along the coast. The vessel’s design guarantees smooth sailing, even in breezier conditions, making it suitable for a relaxing yet exciting experience. The crew’s knowledgeable commentary adds depth, explaining local landmarks and marine life, with opportunities for guests to ask questions.

Sunset Views and Photo Opportunities

The main highlight of this cruise is the spectacular sunset over the Kona coast. As the sun dips, the sky fills with vibrant oranges, pinks, and purples, offering excellent photo opportunities. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras to capture this fleeting moment. The panoramic views allow you to see the Big Island’s coastline, with some areas of interest explained by the crew to deepen your appreciation.

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Marine Wildlife Encounters on the Water

While sailing, there’s a good chance to spot dolphins, which are notably seen during the cruise. Whales, stingrays, and parrots are also mentioned as marine life encounters, adding to the excitement of the evening. The crew’s expertise helps guests understand the marine environment and identify different species, making the cruise educational as well as scenic.

Dinner Options: Catering to Different Tastes

Each cruise includes a delicious dinner, with three choices to suit various preferences:

• Kalua Pork & Rice Bowl: Features succulent Kalua Pork served over hapa rice, accompanied by lomi tomato. This option offers a smoky, tangy flavor profile.
• Spicy Ahi Poke Bowl: Showcases fresh cubes of spicy ahi tuna, mixed with creamy kimchi aioli, and served with sesame seaweed salad and furikake rice for a flavorful experience.
• Vegan Curry & Rice Bowl: Combines tender vegetables, aromatic spices, and protein-rich legumes in a coconut curry over fluffy rice, providing a satisfying plant-based meal.

The crew contacts guests ahead of time to confirm their lunch selection, ensuring a smooth experience onboard.

Who Should Consider This Cruise

This tour is ideal for adults and older children over 5 years old, given safety considerations. It suits those who enjoy scenic water views, marine life, and good food in a relaxed setting. Since the tour is generally available in the afternoon, it offers a flexible option for early evening relaxation. As it doesn’t include hotel transportation, visitors should be prepared to arrive at the meeting point on their own.

Experience Quality: Knowledgeable Guides and Personal Service

The crew members are praised for being extremely knowledgeable and fun, sharing insights on the local landmarks and marine wildlife. The captain’s leadership and the friendly, informative crew greatly enhance the experience. One review highlights the ability to see dolphins and other marine animals, making the trip feel special and memorable.

Additional Activities and Similar Tours

While this cruise focuses on sunset views and marine encounters, several similar experiences are available, such as night manta ray adventures, snorkel tours, and dinner cruises to other parts of the Big Island. These alternatives can offer different types of water-based adventures, but the Kona Super Raft Sunset Cruise stands out for its comfortable vessel, scenic beauty, and quality meal.

Practical Tips for Guests

Guests are advised to arrive 30 minutes early to avoid missing the departure. Since hotel pickup is not included, plan to drive or arrange transport to the meeting point at Ilima Court Shopping Center. Bringing a camera is highly recommended to capture the spectacular sunset and marine wildlife. The tour duration of 2.5 hours makes it a perfect late-afternoon or early-evening activity that fits well into a broader Hawaiian itinerary.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Relaxing Evening on the Water

The Big Island: Kona Super Raft Sunset Cruise offers a unique and scenic experience that combines comfortable sailing, marine wildlife viewing, and delicious local cuisine. Its luxury super raft ensures a smooth ride and great photo opportunities, especially during sunset. The knowledgeable crew elevates the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

This tour is especially well-suited for adults and families with children over 5, looking for a relaxing yet engaging water adventure. While it lacks hotel transportation, its meet-up location is convenient, and the flexible booking options make it easy to plan. Overall, it delivers value for the price, with a small group atmosphere and personalized service making it a highlight of any Big Island visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum age requirement for this cruise?
Yes, it is not suitable for children under 5 years old due to safety considerations.

What is included in the price?
The price includes the sunset cruise on a super raft and a dinner of your choice.

Are hotel pickups available?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Guests meet at the Ilima Court Shopping Center.

What are the dinner options?
Guests can choose from Kalua Pork & Rice Bowl, Spicy Ahi Poke Bowl, or Vegan Curry & Rice Bowl.

When should I arrive for the tour?
Guests should check in and arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if cancellation occurs up to 24 hours before the tour.

What marine animals might I see?
Common sightings include dolphins, whales, stingrays, and parrots.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera and sun protection, and wear comfortable clothing suitable for water outings.

Is this tour available in the evening?
This tour is usually available in the afternoon, with the main highlight being the sunset.

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