Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Snorkeling with manta rays on the Big Island of Hawaii offers a rare, captivating adventure that combines stunning sea life with the magic of night-time waters. Priced at $94 per person, this 2 hour 30 minute tour takes place at Keauhou Bay Harbor, departing with Hang Loose Boat Tours. The tour is highly praised, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on nearly 5,000 reviews, and 96% of participants recommend it. To book, most guests reserve their spots about 27 days in advance, making this a popular choice for those seeking a memorable ocean experience.

The tour is designed for those comfortable in the water, with all necessary snorkeling equipment provided, along with flotation devices and wetsuit tops for added comfort. During the night snorkel, guests get a close-up view of gentle manta rays swimming beneath. The experience also includes light refreshments and snacks onboard, creating a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the sunset in Kona before entering the water. If manta rays aren’t spotted on the scheduled night, the company offers a free return trip, emphasizing their confidence in a successful encounter.

Key Points

• Price: $94 per person, with light refreshments included
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes from start to finish
• Location: Starts at Keauhou Bay Harbor on the Big Island of Hawaii
• Experience: Snorkel in the dark with professional guides leading the way
• Highlights: Sunset viewing in Kona prior to snorkel, close-up encounters with manta rays
• Safety: Requires good swimming ability and comfort in water; floatation devices and wetsuits available

The Starting Point at Keauhou Bay Harbor

The tour begins at Hang Loose Boat Tours, located at 74-381 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona. Guests meet their guide here before the boat departs into the evening. The facility is well-regarded, and the boat trip to the snorkeling site typically takes about 30 minutes each way, offering scenic views of Kona’s coastline at sunset. The harbor setting provides a straightforward start, but guests should be prepared for a possible wait if arriving early or during busy periods.

This convenient meeting point makes it easy for travelers staying in Kona to access the tour without additional transportation arrangements. The tour ends back at the same pickup point, making logistics simple and clear.

Sunset in Kona Before the Night Snorkel

One of the tour’s highlights is the sunset view in Kona, a peaceful prelude to the underwater adventure. Guests have time onboard to relax, take photos, and enjoy light refreshments before donning snorkel gear. Watching the sunset over the water creates a picturesque setting, setting the mood for the night ahead.

The combination of a beautiful Kona sunset and the anticipation of seeing manta rays creates a calm yet exciting atmosphere. The guides keep guests informed about what to expect, adding to the overall enjoyment of the early evening.

Snorkeling with Manta Rays: The Water Experience

The core of this tour is the nighttime snorkeling with manta rays, which is described as both serene and breathtaking. Once in the water, snorkelers are guided to the manta feeding area where gentle manta rays glide gracefully beneath and around them. Guides like Ula and Jordan are praised for their expertise, helping guests find the best spots and ensuring safety throughout.

The floating platform, equipped with blue lights that attract plankton, draws the manta rays closer. Swimmers often get within inches of these majestic creatures, with reports of rays bumping arms or even touching snorkelers. The 45-minute underwater period is intense but manageable for those comfortable in the water, with flotation devices available for added confidence.

All-Inclusive Equipment and Comfort Features

Guests do not need to bring their own snorkeling gear, as all equipment is provided. This includes snorkel masks, fins, wetsuit tops, and floatation devices. The wetsuit tops are jacket-style, helping to keep warm in the cooler night waters. For those who prefer, flotation devices assist in maintaining buoyancy during the experience.

For participants worried about water comfort, the wetsuit tops and flotation aids make the experience accessible even for less confident swimmers. The guides are attentive, often checking masks and gear, and are known for their helpfulness and friendliness.

Food, Drinks,, and the Boat Atmosphere

While in the boat, guests can enjoy light snacks and bottled water. The onboard atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with guides sharing interesting facts about manta rays and the marine environment. The small group size of up to 48 travelers fosters an intimate setting, but reviews suggest that the experience can get crowded at times, especially at peak times.

The snacks and refreshments contribute to a cozy, social vibe after snorkelers return to the boat, making the event not only an aquatic adventure but also a social occasion.

What Happens if Manta Rays Stay Away?

A key feature of this tour is its guarantee: if no manta rays are sighted, guests are offered a complimentary repeat trip. This policy reflects the confidence of Hang Loose Boat Tours in providing a successful manta encounter, which most reviews confirm occurs regularly.

In rare cases when weather or other conditions prevent sightings, the tour can be canceled or rescheduled. Guests are advised to check the weather forecast, as the tour is subject to favorable conditions for safety and visibility.

Physical Requirements and Safety Precautions

Participation requires good swimming ability and comfort being in open water. Guests must be fit and healthy and able to climb a short ladder back onto the boat. The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with back or neck injuries within the last three years.

The guides emphasize safety and responsible snorkeling, and the company reserves the right to refuse service to anyone exhibiting signs of intoxication. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is suitable for children aged 2 and up, with some upper age restrictions.

Physical and Mental Preparation Tips

Given the cooler night waters, travelers are encouraged to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket and a towel for afterward. Motion sickness can occur due to the boat ride; guests are advised to consider Dramamine or similar medication, especially if prone to seasickness.

Comfort in the water is essential for an optimal experience, and guides are available to assist non-swimmers with Ride Along options. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness and swimming experience.

Guides and Their Expertise

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attentiveness. Ula and Jordan, in particular, receive glowing reviews for making the experience fun and reassuring. Their ability to locate manta rays and explain the marine environment enhances the overall value of the tour.

They also cater well to families, making adjustments for children and ensuring everyone feels safe and engaged. This personal approach is one of the reasons why the tour earns such high ratings.

Group Size and Overall Atmosphere

While the maximum group size is 48 travelers, reviews indicate that crowding can occur, especially at busy times. Some guests express a preference for smaller groups, but most find that the guides manage the group well and do not detract from the experience.

The nighttime boat ride and snorkeling atmosphere are described as peaceful and almost magical, with many reviewers calling it a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in case of weather issues or change of plans. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the full amount is non-refundable.

This policy encourages booking early while maintaining options for last-minute changes. The tour is dependent on good weather, and cancellations due to poor conditions will result in a full refund or alternative date.

Morally of a Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

The Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel presents an unmatched opportunity to observe sea creatures like manta rays in their natural habitat, illuminated only by the glow of lights. The combination of scenic sunset, friendly guides, and close encounters makes this tour a highlight for many visiting Kona.

The safety protocols, equipment quality, and professional guides contribute to a smooth, enjoyable experience. However, it is essential to have water confidence and plan for possible motion sickness.

This tour offers a compelling mix of adventure and awe, perfect for anyone eager to see Hawaii’s marine life up close in a safe, guided environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need swimming experience for this tour?
Yes, previous swimming and snorkeling experience are required to participate in the water activity.

What if I don’t see manta rays on my night?
The company offers a complimentary return trip if manta rays are not sighted during the excursion.

Is the equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear, wetsuit tops, and flotation devices are included in the tour.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 2 years old can join, but must meet physical and water comfort requirements.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring a towel, clothes for changing, and a sweatshirt or light jacket. Motion sickness medication is recommended if prone to seasickness.

How long is the boat ride to the snorkeling site?
The boat ride typically lasts about 30 minutes each way.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 48 travelers per trip.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the activity depends on favorable weather conditions. Cancellations due to weather will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

What makes this tour different from others?
Unique features include guided night snorkeling, close-up manta encounters, and a sunset view in Kona before the water adventure.

This Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel stands out for its professional guides, high safety standards, and the chance to see manta rays in their natural environment at night. It’s an experience that combines scenic beauty, marine wonder, and a peaceful night at sea, making it well worth the $94 investment for those ready for an aquatic adventure in Hawaii.