Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran from Kailua-Kona

Discover the Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch aboard a luxury catamaran departing from Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. Priced at $189.19 per person, this 4.5-hour cruise offers a combination of marine exploration, family-friendly activities, and gourmet meals. With a high rating of 5.0 based on 772 reviews and a 94% recommendation rate, this tour is highly regarded for its friendly crew, well-organized schedule, and stunning wildlife sightings. It is a popular choice, often booked 44 days in advance, making it a well-established option for visitors seeking a luxurious ocean adventure.

The tour includes all snorkeling gear, breakfast, lunch, and access to water toys like a waterslide and high jump platform. It departs from 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy at 8:00 am and does not include alcohol but offers a premium cash bar for drinks. Guests should bring their own towels and transportation to the meeting point. This experience suits those looking for a well-rounded, activity-rich day on the water with excellent value for families, couples, and marine wildlife enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Luxury catamaran cruise lasting approximately 4 hours 30 minutes from Kailua-Kona.
• All-inclusive package with breakfast, lunch, beverages, and snorkeling gear.
• Excellent chance of dolphin sightings and marine mammal encounters.
• Features water toys, including a 20-foot waterslide and 15-foot jump platform.
• Wheelchair accessible, with water showers, restrooms, and shade onboard.
• Does not include alcohol, which is available for purchase, and snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay is not part of this tour.

A Luxurious Start at Kailua-Kona Pier

The journey begins at Kailua Kona Pier, where guests check in 30 minutes before the scheduled **8:00 am departure. The check-in takes place at the Retail Store at 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy. The boat departs from this central location, with free parking nearby, just a short walk from the pier.

Since transportation is guest-arranged, arriving early helps ensure a smooth start to the day. The group size is limited to 85 travelers, maintaining a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere onboard. The modern, spacious vessel provides a comfortable environment to relax before and after the water activities.

Cruising Along Kona’s Gold Coast for Wildlife and Views

The cruise takes you along Kona’s Gold Coast, where you enjoy panoramic vistas and the chance to see dolphins or other marine mammals. The crew’s reputation for friendly and helpful service shines during this part of the trip, with guides explaining the marine environment and pointing out wildlife.

During the approximately two hours of snorkeling time, you’ll visit a site in the Red Hill area, though snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay is not included. The crew supplies sanitized masks, snorkels, and fins, ensuring safety and hygiene. The water is typically calm, making it suitable for all experience levels, though those prone to seasickness should consider the ocean conditions.

Snorkeling Experience with Body Glove Cruises

Once at the snorkel site, you’ll enjoy around two hours of water time. The site offers a chance to observe hundreds of fish and possibly see other marine life. The snorkeling equipment is provided, and reef-safe sunscreen helps protect the delicate coral environment.

The guides are praised for their patience and helpfulness, especially for guests who are newer to snorkeling. Since the site is in the Red Hill area, it may not be as reef-rich as Kealakekua Bay, but the crew makes the water experience enjoyable with plenty of fish and marine activity.

Onboard Dining: Breakfast, Lunch, and Refreshments

A continental-style breakfast with items like blueberry muffins is served before departure. The lunch menu features tasty burgers and is BBQ-style, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their meal at leisure during the cruise.

All beverages, including non-alcoholic drinks, are included in the price, and the premium cash bar offers a variety of cocktails and drinks for purchase. The boat’s amenities, such as freshwater showers, restrooms, and shade, make the onboard experience comfortable, especially during the warmer months.

Fun Activities and Water Toys for Everyone

The vessel boasts a 20-foot waterslide and a 15-foot high jump platform, providing plenty of fun for guests of all ages. Water toys are plentiful, and the crew is attentive to safety and fun. Paddleboards are also available, and guests can enjoy a float or use noodles to relax in the water.

The boat’s large size and cleanliness contribute to a comfortable experience, with restrooms and shaded areas ensuring all guests remain comfortable during their time on deck.

Marine Wildlife Encounters and Seaside Views

The main highlight remains the chance to see dolphins and potentially other marine mammals. The boat’s route through protected sanctuaries increases the likelihood of wildlife sightings, which are often praised as magical moments.

Guides are known for their knowledgeable explanations and friendly demeanor, making the experience informative and enjoyable. Wildlife spotting can include dolphins, whales, and sometimes even double rainbows, as some reviews mention.

Accessibility and Comfort Onboard

The vessel is 100% wheelchair accessible, ensuring that guests with mobility challenges can fully enjoy the trip. The boat provides water showers, restrooms, and shade, enhancing comfort throughout the cruise.

Guests are advised to bring their own towels and transportation to the pier, as hotel pick-up services are not available. The group size and well-maintained facilities contribute to a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

Customer Experience and Crew Service

The crew receives high praise for being friendly, helpful, and attentive. Many reviews mention the delicious meals and the generous portions served onboard. The captain and staff are lauded for their professionalism and ability to accommodate guests’ needs, including those who may feel seasick.

The quick responsiveness and safety-minded approach create confidence in the overall experience, making it suitable for families, first-time snorkelers, and wildlife watchers.

Considerations and Limitations

While the cruise offers excellent wildlife sightings and fun water activities, it does not snorkel in Kealakekua Bay, which is often favored for its vibrant reefs. Seasickness can affect some guests, especially in rougher ocean conditions, so those with sensitivity should plan accordingly.

Alcoholic beverages are not included in the initial price but are available for purchase at the cash bar. Guests must bring their own towels and arrive early for check-in to ensure a smooth start.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

The Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch offers a luxurious, all-inclusive experience on the water with plenty of activities and wildlife encounters. The high-quality facilities, friendly crew, and delicious meals make it a standout choice for families, couples, and marine life enthusiasts seeking a well-organized, enjoyable day on the ocean.

While it may not include snorkeling in the most renowned reefs like Kealakekua Bay, its comfortable vessel, diverse water activities, and predictable wildlife sightings make it a dependable option for a memorable Hawaiian excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly with activities suitable for children, including water toys, paddleboarding, and a waterslide. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring for the trip?
Guests should bring towels, sunscreen (reef-safe recommended), and transportation to the pier. Swimsuits are necessary for water activities.

Are drinks included in the price?
Non-alcoholic drinks and breakfast and lunch are included. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the cash bar.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before departure are non-refundable.

Is the vessel accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat is 100% wheelchair accessible, with facilities like water showers, restrooms, and shaded areas.

Where exactly does the tour start?
The tour departs from 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy in Kailua-Kona, with check-in 30 minutes prior to departure at the retail store.

Does the tour include snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay?
No, the snorkeling takes place in the Red Hill area, not in Kealakekua Bay.

What wildlife might I see?
There is an excellent chance of dolphin sightings, along with possible encounters with other marine mammals and marine life.

How long is the snorkeling session?
Snorkeling lasts about two hours, allowing ample time to explore the underwater environment.

Is there a dress code?
Guests should wear swimsuits and bring sunscreen. It’s advisable to wear comfortable clothing that can get wet and bring a hat for sun protection.

Will I see whales during this tour?
While whales are sometimes seen, sightings are not guaranteed, but dolphins are often spotted along the route.