From Hawaii: Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Experience with BBQ

Discover the vibrant underwater world of Hawaii on this eco-certified snorkeling cruise departing from Kailua-Kona. Priced at $195 per person for a 4.5-hour adventure, this tour combines marine wildlife encounters, dolphin watching, and a delicious BBQ lunch. With complimentary snorkeling gear and activities suitable for all ages, it promises a well-rounded, eco-conscious experience.

While the tour offers plenty of family-friendly features and stunning coastal views, it is best suited for those wanting a relaxed, educational day on the water with ample time for snorkeling and onboard amenities. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable crew, delicious food, and comfortable facilities, making it an excellent choice for sea lovers and families alike.

Key Points

• Eco-certified tour exploring protected marine sanctuaries 10 miles down the Kona coast
• Includes 2 hours of snorkeling and dolphin watching opportunities
• Delicious BBQ lunch served mid-trip, with complimentary non-alcoholic drinks
• Family-friendly amenities include paddleboards, floatation devices, waterslides, and a high dive
• Accessible for wheelchair users with a specially designed boarding ramp and portable extensions
• Suitable for all ages, with kids’ activities, and options for beginners with safety briefings and gear

You can check availability for your dates here:

Kona’s Protected Marine Sanctuaries and Snorkel Locations

This tour takes you 10 miles along the Kona coastline to reach the Red Hill marine sanctuary, a protected area home to over 600 species of ocean wildlife. The waters in this reef are calm, clear, and perfect for observing a variety of marine life.

The snorkel spot is specially selected for its health and conservation status, offering a glimpse into Hawaii’s vibrant underwater ecosystem. All gear, including prescription masks, is provided, making snorkeling accessible whether you’re a novice or experienced swimmer. The crew offers a brief safety and technique introduction, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the water.

Onboard Comforts and Family-Friendly Activities

This vessel features a large shaded cabin with cushioned seating, restrooms, and freshwater showers—ideal for relaxing between water activities. For entertainment, the boat offers a 20-foot waterslide and a 15-foot-high dive, which entertain kids and adventurous adults alike.

Floatation devices, including noodles, vests, and inner tubes, are available at no extra cost, supporting those new to snorkeling or just wanting to relax on the water. The floating relaxation station provides an ideal spot for unwinding, while the crew can bring drinks directly to you, making the experience laid-back and personalized.

Dolphin Watching and Marine Wildlife Encounters

The tour’s dolphin watching component is a highlight, with the captain actively searching for pods swimming nearby. The crew is attentive and quick to guide the group to sightings, adding a dynamic element to the trip. Aside from dolphins, expect to see a variety of reef fish and other marine creatures, depending on the day’s conditions.

This experience emphasizes eco-friendliness and wildlife respect, ensuring your encounters are sustainable and non-intrusive. The friendly crew’s knowledge about marine life enhances the appreciation for Hawaii’s rich oceanic environment.

Food, Drinks, and Onboard Dining Experience

A light breakfast of tropical fruits, pastries, bagels, juices, teas, and Kona coffee kicks off the trip. After snorkeling, a barbecue lunch is served, featuring hearty and satisfying options that cater to various tastes.

Throughout the cruise, complimentary non-alcoholic drinks are available, including juices and water. For those interested in alcoholic beverages, a full-service premium cash bar offers plenty of options, including local brews, liquors, and mixers. The crew’s attentive service ensures you’re well-hydrated and fed, making this a true feast at sea.

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Accessibility and Practical Tips

This cruise is 100% wheelchair accessible, with a specialized boarding ramp and portable extensions accommodating manual, electric, and scooter-bound wheelchairs. Boarding begins at 7:30 AM, with departure at 8:00 AM, so punctuality is essential as refunds are not granted for late arrivals.

Guests should bring a towel, waterproof camera, and sunscreen (reef-safe recommended). The boat’s facilities and crew support both beginners and experienced snorkelers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience regardless of skill level.

Crew and Guide Expertise

The crew, led by lifeguard-trained staff, is consistently praised for their professionalism, friendly demeanor, and knowledge of marine environments. Many reviews highlight how helpful and attentive they are—ready to assist with gear, safety, or just sharing information about the ocean.

Many guests mention the crew’s effort to create a fun, safe, and inclusive atmosphere, especially for families or those with special needs. This attentive service contributes significantly to the tour’s high 4.8-star rating.

Timing, Pacing, and Overall Experience

This 4.5-hour morning tour offers a balanced schedule that allows ample snorkel time—around 2 hours—plus opportunities for dolphin sightings and relaxing onboard activities. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of opportunities for photo-taking, floating, or simply enjoying the scenery.

The onboard amenities, including paddleboards and a waterslide, add extra fun, especially for children. The delicious food, friendly atmosphere, and beautiful coastal views make this a memorable outing for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Final Thoughts on the Kona Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Tour

This tour stands out for its focus on marine conservation and family-friendly features, making it a great choice for those who want to explore Hawaii’s underwater world responsibly. The delicious BBQ lunch, comfortable facilities, and highly praised crew contribute to a well-rounded experience.

The $195 price point includes a solid 2 hours of snorkeling, dolphin watching, and access to various water toys and activities. While the experience is mostly suitable for those looking for a relaxed day on the water, the inclusion of waterslides and high dives keeps it exciting for kids and adventure seekers.

In summary, this tour offers excellent value, expert guides, and a conservation-minded approach that resonates with eco-conscious travelers. It’s an enjoyable and informative way to spend part of a Hawaiian vacation, especially for those seeking a family-friendly, scenic, and active experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $195 fee covers snorkeling gear, breakfast, lunch, non-alcoholic drinks, waterproof sunscreen, and activities like paddleboarding, watersliding, and high diving.

How long is the snorkeling time?
Snorkeling lasts approximately 2 hours, providing plenty of opportunity to explore the underwater world comfortably.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly with kids’ activities, floatation devices, and a waterslide. It’s praised for accommodating all ages and abilities.

What dietary options are available?
The tour provides a hearty BBQ lunch, with plenty of options to satisfy different tastes. Guests should notify guides if they have specific dietary restrictions.

How accessible is the tour for wheelchair users?
The tour is 100% wheelchair accessible, with a specialized boarding ramp and portable extensions to accommodate all wheelchairs.

When does the tour depart?
Boarding begins at 7:30 AM, with the cruise departing promptly at 8:00 AM. Punctuality is important as refunds are not issued for late arrivals.

Are alcoholic drinks included?
No, alcohol is available for purchase at the full-service cash bar. Non-alcoholic drinks are complimentary throughout the trip.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests are advised to bring a towel, waterproof camera, and sunscreen. Reef-safe sunscreen is recommended to protect Hawaii’s marine environment.

Is the snorkeling location guaranteed to have good marine life?
The designated reef is known for its diverse marine species, but sightings can vary depending on conditions. The crew works hard to find the best spots and sightings.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The reserve now & pay later option adds flexibility to your planning.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, this is an eco-certified tour that emphasizes marine conservation and responsible wildlife viewing practices.

This Kona snorkeling cruise offers a satisfying blend of adventure, comfort, and conservation—perfect for those wanting to experience Hawaii’s underwater beauty responsibly and enjoyably.

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