Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour from Kona

Experience the Magic of Big Island’s Manta Rays at Night

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour from Kona offers a unique chance to see gentle manta rays up close in their natural habitat. Priced at $160.50 per person, this 1 hour and 30 minutes tour departs from Kailua-Kona and takes you just five minutes off the Big Island’s west coast. It’s an experience that combines thrilling wildlife viewing with comfort, as the tour includes snorkel equipment, wetsuits, and hot drinks. This tour is highly recommended, with 92% of reviewers giving it a thumbs-up, and a solid 4.7 out of 5 based on 241 reviews.

What makes this adventure stand out is the opportunity to witness multiple manta rays feeding on plankton under bright vessel lights, with some animals coming astonishingly close. While parking and locating the right boat can be tricky, arriving early helps ensure a smooth start. This tour suits anyone with moderate physical fitness and some snorkeling experience, as it emphasizes safety and ease of viewing in dark waters.

Key Points

• 1.5-hour night snorkel tour focusing on manta rays’ feeding activity
• Led by knowledgeable guides who explain the behavior and safety tips
• Use of dive lights attracts manta rays and illuminates their feeding grounds
• Includes snorkel gear, wetsuits, and hot drinks like soup, bread, and hot chocolate
• Limited to a maximum of 26 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience
• Book about 34 days in advance for a spot on this popular tour

Departing from Kailua-Kona at the Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides

The tour begins at 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street in Kailua-Kona, where Kona Sunrise Charters hosts this nighttime aquatic adventure. Though the meeting point is straightforward, parking may be limited, so arriving early is advisable. The tour departs in the evening, with four different times available, accommodating various schedules.

The check-in process is streamlined with a mobile ticket system, and confirmation is received at the time of booking. The crew is prepared to handle a maximum of 26 travelers, making the experience more personalized and less crowded.

The Unique Appeal of Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays

Unlike daytime sightings, the feeding activity of mantas peaks at night, adding a special thrill to this tour. Using safe dive lights attracts plankton to the water’s surface, which in turn draws the large manta rays, some with wingspans exceeding 15 feet. The guides are skilled at explaining these behaviors, ensuring everyone understands the animals’ gentle nature—mantas have no teeth, stingers, or barbs—making close encounters safe for swimmers.

The lighting setup on the vessel enhances visibility, allowing snorkelers to see manta rays dance and feed beneath them. This lighting also helps in spotting the mantas easily, even in dark waters. The experience is considered super cool, especially with multiple mantas coming right up close and personal.

Smooth and Safe Snorkeling Equipment and Instruction

All participants receive snorkel gear, including full wetsuits to stay warm in the cool night water. The guides provide detailed instructions, ensuring everyone is comfortable before entering the water. The safety measures are clear, and the gentle nature of mantas makes this a safe activity for those with some snorkeling experience.

Because full face snorkel masks are not permitted on the vessel, guests should be comfortable with standard snorkel setups. The moderate physical fitness level required means that most snorkelers with basic skills can enjoy this tour without difficulty.

Post-Snorkel Comforts: Warm Soup, Bread, and Hot Drinks

After the underwater adventure, the crew offers warm homemade soup, bread rolls, and hot drinks, including hot chocolate. This cozy refreshment break is a hit among participants, providing a relaxing way to recount the sights and share the highlights of the night.

The warm drinks and comforting food add to the experience, especially considering the cool night air and water temperatures. The crew’s hospitality and attention to detail make the end of this tour feel like a genuine treat.

The Crew: Experienced and Helpful Guides

Reviews highlight the top-notch crew and excellent guides, including Captain Tim Mitchell. The staff is praised for being helpful, informative, and friendly, contributing significantly to the overall satisfaction. Their expertise ensures that guests feel safe and well-informed throughout the tour.

The guides’ ability to explain manta behaviors and answer questions enhances the educational value of the experience. Their professionalism and warm attitude create a supportive environment for both novices and experienced snorkelers.

Observing Multiple Mantas During the Tour

One of the most praised aspects is the chance to see multiple manta rays—with some reports mentioning as many as eight different mantas during a single tour. The visual spectacle of these majestic creatures swimming around and even coming right up close is described as amazing and life-changing.

Participants are often amazed by how curious and gentle the mantas are, making this a memorable encounter that feels almost surreal. The dancing mantas and their feeding frenzy create a dynamic, captivating underwater scene.

Tour Flexibility and Booking Tips

The tour offers four time slots, providing flexibility for different schedules. Since it’s booked on average 34 days in advance, securing a spot early is recommended due to its popularity. The full refund policy for cancellations 24 hours or more in advance offers peace of mind for planning.

Guests should note that non-swimmers, beginners, or those without snorkeling experience might find this activity challenging. It’s best suited for individuals with some comfort in the water and moderate physical fitness.

Comparing Similar Tours on Big Island

This tour stands out for its focus on nighttime manta ray viewing and inclusive amenities. Similar experiences, like sunset manta snorkels or daytime sightseeing, may not offer the same level of close-up encounters or the same comforts.

However, the sunset options often attract similar crowds, and some tours may feature different routes or amenities. Still, the high safety standards, friendly guides, and excellent visibility make this tour a top choice for those eager to see manta rays in their natural environment.

The Overall Value and Suitability

At $160.50, the tour offers a great mix of adventure, education, and comfort. The small group size and expert guidance ensure a personalized experience that emphasizes safety and wildlife viewing. It is particularly suitable for adventurous snorkelers and those interested in marine life encounters.

While parking can be a minor challenge, arriving early helps mitigate this issue. The included snorkel gear, wetsuits, warm drinks, and a knowledgeable crew make this tour a well-rounded and worthwhile choice for a night spent with magnificent manta rays.

Kona’s Most Recommended Night Manta Tour

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel from Kona consistently earns high praise for its close-up sightings, friendly guides, and warm hospitality. It’s an activity that leaves many with unforgettable memories of the Big Island’s underwater wonder. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious traveler, this tour offers a safe, comfortable, and extraordinary way to experience Hawaii’s marine life.

Boldly, this adventure is suited for those seeking a species-specific wildlife encounter that’s both exciting and educational. Expect to be amazed by the dancing manta rays and the night sky above, making it a highlight of any Big Island visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes snorkel equipment, wetsuits, and instruction, plus warm homemade soup, bread rolls, and hot drinks.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from 78-7130 Kaleiopapa Street in Kailua-Kona.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, it’s not recommended for non-swimmers or those without snorkeling experience.

What is the best time to book?
Since the tour is popular, it’s best to book about 34 days in advance to secure a spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel 24 hours in advance.

Are there age restrictions?
Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring?
Guests should arrive prepared with basic snorkeling gear, and arrive early for parking.

Is there a dress code or special equipment needed?
Wetsuits are provided, and full face masks are not permitted on the vessel.

What can I expect after the snorkeling?
Enjoy hot drinks and warm food as you relive the experience with fellow snorkelers.

How many manta rays are typically seen?
Many tours report seeing multiple mantas, with some seeing up to eight during a single outing.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The close encounters with multiple manta rays and the expert guides, combined with the comfortable amenities, make this a top-rated choice for night snorkeling in Kona.