Kona Afternoon Dolphin Watch & Snorkel on the Big Isand

A 2-hour adventure along Hawaii’s Big Island offers an engaging mix of wildlife encounters and vibrant snorkeling. Kona Afternoon Dolphin Watch & Snorkel by Iruka Hawaii Dolphin costs $120 per person and departs from Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. This tour is perfect for those with limited time but eager to see the island’s marine life firsthand. The highlight is watching playful wild dolphins in their natural habitat, including pan-tropical spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and seasonally, humpback whales from December to March.

We like how this tour combines dolphin observation with snorkeling, making the most of a short window of time. The speedboat, KIBOU, is specially designed for wildlife encounters, offering excellent vantage points for dolphin viewing. The inclusion of snorkeling gear, snacks, water, and a floating party mat adds to the fun. A potential consideration is that transportation to the harbor is not included, so plan accordingly if you’re staying farther away.

Key Points

• Two-hour tour perfect for a quick but action-packed marine experience
• Dolphin encounters with multiple species in their natural environment
• Seasonal whale watching available from December to March
• Includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, and a floating party mat
• Meeting point at Iruka Hawaii booth in Honokohau Harbor
• No transportation included; BYO alcohol permitted (no glass)

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor

The tour begins at Iruka Hawaii Dolphin booth located at Slip A-17 in Honokohau Small Boat Harbor. Travelers should arrive prepared with sunscreen and a towel for after snorkeling. The check-in process is straightforward, and the meeting spot is easily accessible within the harbor.

Since the tour duration is just 2 hours, it fits well into a busy sightseeing day. The departure usually occurs in the afternoon, making it a great choice for a relaxing yet active part of your Big Island itinerary. Remember, transportation to the harbor is not included, so consider arranging your own transfer or arriving by rental car.

Up-close Dolphin Encounters on a Speedboat

The speedboat KIBOU is designed for wildlife observation, ensuring you’ll get great views of dolphins playing in the wild. The captain and crew are skilled at guiding you to the best spots where dolphins are known to be active. Expect to see playful dolphins performing their antics from the boat’s vantage points.

This tour offers the chance to see multiple dolphin species as they swim, jump, and socialize. The seasonal whale watching adds a special dimension if your trip falls between December and March. The boat’s design and the crew’s expertise together create an engaging and enjoyable dolphin-spotting experience.

Snorkeling Among Turtles and Vibrant Marine Life

After dolphin viewing, the tour takes you to pristine snorkeling spots along Kona’s West Coast. Here, you can look for sea turtles, along with a variety of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. The provided snorkeling equipment, with prescription goggles available, makes the activity accessible for many.

The tour’s focus on marine life means you’ll spend ample time swimming among turtles and observing live coral. The floating party mat adds a relaxed element, allowing you to rest or socialize while floating in the water. Since snorkeling gear is included, no extra equipment rental is necessary unless you want a wetsuit.

Seasonal Whale Watching Opportunities

From December to March, this tour offers the chance to spot humpback whales in season. The whales migrate through Hawaiian waters, and their presence is a bonus for tour participants. The captain keeps a keen eye out for whale sightings, adding an extra thrill during the appropriate months.

This seasonal aspect makes the tour particularly appealing for visitors traveling during winter months, although dolphin watching remains the core activity year-round. The whale watching component is a special highlight that elevates this tour beyond just dolphin and snorkeling encounters.

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Included Amenities and Practical Details

The tour includes all necessary snorkeling gear, with options for prescription goggles. The floating party mat encourages relaxation during water breaks, and the boat is equipped with a bathroom for convenience. Snacks, water, and juice are provided, ensuring hydration and energy for the entire 2-hour experience.

Alcohol is allowed BYO, but no glass containers are permitted, making it suitable for adults wanting to unwind with a drink after snorkeling. The tour emphasizes safety and comfort, with crew members helpful and knowledgeable, especially for families or first-time snorkelers.

Important Tips for a Smooth Experience

Travelers should bring a towel and sunscreen for protection. Since transportation to the harbor is not included, plan to arrive via rental car or arrange your own transfer. Sea sickness medication is recommended if you’re prone to queasiness, especially on the speedboat.

The tour operates in English and Japanese, catering to diverse visitors. It’s advisable to arrive early for check-in and be prepared for the afternoon departure. The 2-hour duration makes it manageable even for those with limited time.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Compared to other Big Island snorkeling or wildlife tours, this experience emphasizes dolphin observation on a speedboat specifically designed for the purpose. The inclusion of a floating mat and snacks enhances relaxation and enjoyment during the short trip.

Unlike longer excursions, this 2-hour tour offers a well-balanced mix of wildlife viewing and snorkeling, perfect for those who want a quick yet comprehensive marine adventure. The seasonal whale watching adds an extra dimension for winter travelers.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers short on time but eager to see marine mammals and explore underwater life. The kid-friendly features like the floating mat and helpful guides make it suitable for children who are not strong swimmers.

Travelers who appreciate expert guides, well-maintained equipment, and convenient amenities will find this tour satisfying. It’s especially appealing during the whale season and for those who prefer an up-close view of dolphins without a long day on the water.

Kona Afternoon Dolphin Watch & Snorkel: Final Thoughts

This 2-hour tour offers a balanced experience of wild dolphin sightings and vibrant snorkeling with sea turtles along the Big Island. Its focus on marine wildlife, combined with snacks and a relaxing floating mat, makes it a fun, efficient option for a quick aquatic adventure.

While transportation to the harbor is not included, the well-designed speedboat and knowledgeable crew help compensate, delivering a smooth and engaging outing. The seasonal whale watching makes this tour a versatile choice for winter visitors.

Overall, this experience provides great value for money and a memorable look at Hawaii’s unique marine life for those who enjoy active water experiences in a compact time frame.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours, usually in the afternoon.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, snacks, water, juice, and a floating party mat are included. Wetsuit rentals are not.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from Iruka Hawaii booth at Slip A-17, Honokohau Small Boat Harbor.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Yes, during December to March, the tour offers seasonal whale watching.

Is alcohol allowed during the tour?
Yes, BYO alcohol is permitted, but no glass containers.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is suitable for most participants, including children, though sea sickness medication is recommended if prone to seasickness.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling gear is provided, with prescription goggles available.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, travelers must arrange their own transportation to Honokohau Harbor.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunscreen and a towel for after snorkeling.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, the helpful guides and floating mat make it accessible for non-swimmers or less confident swimmers.

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