Luxury Hawaiian Sea Turtle, Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel

Discover the Luxury Hawaiian Sea Turtle, Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel Tour

This 4-hour luxury yacht trip along the Kona Coast offers an intimate way to explore the Big Island’s marine life and waterscapes. Priced at $506.94 per person, this tour is recommended by 95% of travelers and is often booked 53 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour is led by Hawaii Nautical, a certified Dolphin Smart supplier, ensuring responsible viewing of wild dolphins and marine creatures.

The adventure combines snorkeling at top sites, sailing on a luxurious vessel, and delighting in included lunch and unlimited refreshments. With a small group cap of 6 guests, the experience emphasizes comfort, personalization, and a chance to see dolphins, turtles, and whales in their natural habitat. This tour suits travelers who appreciate high-end vessels, intimate group sizes, and quality marine encounters.

Key Points

• Luxury yacht experience with private changing rooms, fresh-water showers, and in-cabin restrooms
• Snorkel at prime locations like Pawai Bay or Makalawena, with gear and prescription masks provided
• Includes a gourmet lunch, with picnic or Japanese Bento options, plus unlimited refreshments
• Small group setting capped at 6 guests for a personalized experience
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, turtles, and sometimes whales, in accordance with Dolphin SMART guidelines
• Departure from Honokohau Harbor at 9:00 am, with a flexible schedule based on conditions

Starting Point at Honokohau Harbor for a Seamless Departure

The tour begins at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, where check-in occurs at the Hawaii Nautical dock. The meeting point is easy to find, and the vessel departs promptly at 9:00 am. The boat is a luxurious cruising vessel equipped with private changing areas and fresh-water showers, promising comfort throughout the trip.

Most travelers find this start time ideal for enjoying the morning at sea and maximizing daylight hours for marine activities. The harbor’s location offers quick access to top snorkeling spots and marine wildlife sightings.

The Yacht: A Premium Vessel for a Comfortable Voyage

The high-end yacht used on this tour features private changing rooms, fresh-water showers, and in-cabin restrooms, ensuring convenience and privacy. The vessel’s design emphasizes luxury, with ample space for a small group of up to 6 guests, allowing for attentive service from crew members.

This vessel is noted for its excellent condition and beautiful appearance, making the trip feel exclusive and relaxed. The crew’s professionalism and friendliness shine through, enhancing the overall experience.

Snorkeling at Pawai Bay and Makalawena

The tour’s snorkeling stops are carefully chosen for their stunning underwater features and marine life. Pawai Bay offers swim-throughs, caves, and arches, providing an exciting environment for snorkelers. Makalawena, often accessible only by boat or rugged off-road vehicles, is a secluded, pristine area perfect for exploring in calmer waters.

Guests receive snorkel gear, inflatable vests, and prescription masks to ensure comfort and safety. The crew is attentive, helping guests get the most from each snorkeling session, and the sites are known for colorful fish, sea turtles, and occasional dolphin sightings.

The Lunch: Gourmet Options and Marine Observations

After snorkeling, passengers enjoy an included lunch featuring picnic-style or Japanese Bento options. The lunch is presented as a delicious meal served on deck, complemented by unlimited refreshments, including beverages of choice.

During mealtime, the likelihood of spotting marine life such as dolphins, turtles, and sometimes whales increases, as they often swim nearby. This al fresco lunch setting offers a relaxed environment to appreciate the ocean’s beauty while enjoying tasty food.

Wildlife Encounters: Dolphins, Turtles, and Whales

This tour emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing under the guidance of a certified Dolphin Smart operator. Dolphins are frequently observed, especially during sailing, while sea turtles are common at snorkeling sites.

Certain days may also offer whale sightings, particularly in season. The tour’s approach minimizes disturbance, complying with guidelines that help preserve natural behaviors like migration, breeding, and feeding.

The Small Group Advantage for a Personalized Experience

Limited to 6 guests, this tour ensures personalized attention from the crew. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to ask questions, receive tailored assistance, and enjoy a quieter, more intimate marine adventure.

This setup also offers flexibility in choosing snorkeling sites based on conditions and guest requests, providing a bespoke experience that larger tours can’t match.

Expert Crew and Excellent Service

Many reviews highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew, with guides like Cindy, Gretchen, Nicole, Brooke, and Liz receiving praise for their hospitality. Their warm demeanor and professional expertise turn the trip into a memorable outing.

Guests often mention the outstanding service, with crew members making sure everyone feels comfortable and safe. The crew’s responsiveness and enthusiasm significantly contribute to the tour’s high ratings.

Food and Refreshments: Quality and Variety

The lunch options are well-liked, with vegetarian options available upon request. The snack displays and refreshments are described as sweet and acceptable, with drinks flowing freely throughout the trip.

The small breakfast spread in the morning caters to early risers, and the beverages include a range of choices, making the entire experience feel luxurious and relaxing.

Weather Cancellations and Booking Flexibility

The tour operates on a full refund cancellation policy, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. If weather conditions are poor, the tour is canceled, and travelers are offered a reschedule or full refund.

This flexible policy ensures peace of mind when planning, especially during seasons with unpredictable weather.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $506.94 per person, this tour provides luxury amenities, small group intimacy, and high-quality marine encounters. Most bookings are made about 53 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among those seeking a premium ocean experience.

Travelers should consider transportation to the Honokohau Harbor, as it is not included, and plan accordingly for a smooth start to the day.

Who Should Book This Tour

This luxury experience is ideal for those who value personalized service, comfortable vessels, and intimate group sizes. It suits adults aged 21 and over, especially couples and small groups seeking a refined day at sea. Families with older children may also enjoy this, provided they can handle snorkeling and boat activities.

The tour’s emphasis on wildlife conservation and responsible viewing will appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Luxury Hawaiian Sea Turtle, Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel

This small-group luxury yacht tour offers a balanced mix of snorkeling, wildlife viewing, sailing, and gourmet dining. Its high ratings, dedicated crew, and premium amenities make it a top choice for travelers looking for a relaxed, upscale marine adventure on the Big Island.

While it comes at a premium price, the intimate setting, beautiful vessels, and priority marine viewing justify the cost for those seeking a more refined ocean experience. It’s especially suited for guests who appreciate luxury and personalized service in a natural setting abundant with marine life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to Honokohau Harbor included? No, transportation is not included; travelers need to arrange their own to and from the meeting point.

What is the maximum group size? The tour is limited to 6 guests for a more private experience.

What meals are offered? The tour includes picnic-style or Japanese Bento lunch options, with vegetarian choices available upon request.

Are drinks included? Yes, there are unlimited refreshments available onboard.

Can I see whales on this tour? Sightings of whales are possible during the season, along with dolphins and turtles.

What wildlife might I encounter? You can expect to see dolphins, sea turtles, and sometimes whales.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners? Yes, all snorkeling gear is provided, including prescription masks; crew assistance enhances safety and enjoyment.

What should I bring? Guests should bring sun protection and personal necessities, as transportation is not included.

Can I make this a private charter? Yes, by purchasing all 6 tickets, you can have the entire vessel for a completely private experience.

What weather conditions affect the tour? The tour depends on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a full refund or reschedule is offered.