Snorkel With Giant Manta Rays In Kailua Kona

Key Points

• Price: $82.20 per person for a 2-hour snorkeling adventure
• Location: Starts at Honokohau Small Boat Harbor in Kailua Kona, Big Island of Hawaii
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including boat ride and snorkeling time
• Highlights: Snorkel up close with giant manta rays using powerful underwater lights
• Physical Requirements: Basic swimming skills and ability to climb a boat ladder are necessary
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 18 travelers for personalized attention

Snorkel With Manta Rays Near Kona Airport or Keauhou

This tour departs from Snorkel Big Island’s designated location at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona. It offers the chance to see manta rays, some of the most captivating creatures in Hawaiian waters, in two prime spots—either near the Kona airport or further south at Keauhou—depending on where the best sightings are on that night. This flexibility is a key feature, maximizing the chances of spotting these gentle giants.

The tour runs for about 2 hours, with a 15-20 minute boat ride out to the snorkel site. The vessel used is spacious, safe, and USCG documented, ensuring comfort and security during the trip. The cost is $82.20 per person, with seats often booked 15 days in advance, reflecting high demand and popularity.

Expert Guides and Safety as Top Priorities

A Red Cross Licensed In-Water Guide and Lifeguard accompany each trip, emphasizing safety and professionalism. The team is known for attention to detail, making sure all guests feel comfortable and well-informed. They offer personalized assistance, including floatation options and help with gear, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience whether snorkeling independently or needing extra support.

The guides are also eager to share interesting facts about the manta rays and marine wildlife, enriching the encounter without overwhelming. Their friendly approach is frequently praised, with reviews highlighting how helpful and accommodating they are, especially for first-time snorkelers or those with limited experience.

What’s Included: Quality Equipment and Wetsuits

All necessary snorkel gear and wetsuits are provided, with the wetsuits designed to ensure comfort during the water activity. The use of snorkeling equipment is included in the price, making it a hassle-free experience. For added safety, guests are fitted with shorty wetsuits to help maintain warmth and buoyancy.

The tour also includes additional floatation and personal assistance if requested. The underwater lights mounted on floating custom light boards are a key feature, giving snorkelers an advantage in viewing the manta rays in their natural habitat.

Prime Viewing Locations for Manta Rays

The trip’s core focus is viewing manta rays, which are attracted to the powerful underwater lights. These lights create a plankton bloom that draws the rays close to the surface, often making for spectacular sightings. Guests can expect to see multiple rays, sometimes touching or coming very close to snorkelers, providing an experience described as magical and unforgettable.

The tour’s success hinges on manta activity, which is naturally unpredictable. The company notes that wild animals are involved, and sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, they usually are very successful in locating mantas, and repeat attempts are offered if no rays are seen during the initial trip, with a rebooking fee.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

Travelers check-in at Snorkel Big Island at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy. Arriving on time is important, with check-in potentially up to 40 minutes prior. The group size is limited to 18 travelers, creating a more intimate atmosphere and allowing guides to give personalized attention.

The tour is not suitable for those who have recently undergone surgery, have mobility or physical restrictions, or are pregnant, due to the physical demands of climbing the boat ladder and swimming independently. Service animals are permitted, and most travelers can participate, provided they meet the basic requirements.

Spectacular Views During the Boat Ride

The boat ride to and from the snorkel site is often highlighted as a beautiful experience. Travelers often comment on the sunset views and the starlit sky during the return trip, adding to the overall atmosphere. The ocean conditions can vary, and the crew prioritizes safety, especially if the weather turns poor, potentially leading to cancellations or rescheduling.

The timing of the tour influences the likelihood of manta sightings, with some reviews recommending the later tour for a better chance to see rays, as they tend to become more active at night.

The Importance of Respect and Care

The tour operator emphasizes respect for marine wildlife and the environment. They are a family-run business that takes pride in caring for land, ocean, and animals. Guests are encouraged to act responsibly, avoid upselling or disturbing the animals, and follow safety instructions to protect both themselves and the marine life.

Customer Satisfaction and Consistent Praise

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 65 reviews, this tour is highly recommended. Visitors frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, the up-close encounters with manta rays, and the value for money. The experience is described as “magical,” “incredible,” and “not to be missed.” Many praise the crew for their friendly attitude and efforts to make everyone feel safe.

A few reviews mention arriving early for check-in or the boat being a little delayed, but these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall positive experience reported.

Cancellation Policy and Weather Considerations

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled less than 24 hours prior, a full refund is not available, and any changes are not accepted. The activity is weather-dependent, and in case of poor weather, the company provides the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

This policy helps ensure safety and quality of experience, especially since good weather significantly influences the chances of manta sightings.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This snorkel with manta rays experience suits those with basic swimming skills and the ability to climb a boat ladder independently. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a guided, safe, and intimate encounter with one of Hawaii’s most iconic marine animals. The small group size and expert guides make it suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers comfortable in open water.

However, those with physical restrictions or recent surgeries should consider other options, as the activity requires standing, climbing, and swimming.

Final Thoughts on the Kailua Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour

This tour offers a straightforward, well-organized chance to witness giant manta rays in their natural environment. The combination of expert guides, excellent safety measures, and powerful underwater lights creates an experience that many describe as “magical” and “life-changing.”

While wild animal encounters always carry a level of unpredictability, the high success rate and positive reviews indicate this tour’s reliability. It offers great value at $82.20, especially considering the quality of equipment and personalized attention.

This journey is ideal for adventurous souls eager to see Hawaii’s wildlife up close, provided they meet the basic physical requirements. It’s a highlight for anyone looking to combine marine wildlife with beautiful ocean views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need previous snorkeling experience to join this tour?
Yes, previous snorkeling experience is required, along with the ability to climb a boat ladder independently.

How long is the snorkeling activity?
The total tour duration is approximately 2 hours, including boat ride and snorkeling time.

Where does the tour start?
Check-in takes place at Snorkel Big Island located at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy in Kailua Kona.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and the presence of a licensed in-water guide.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to poor weather or insufficient booking.

Are there age or physical restrictions?
The activity is not recommended for guests with mobility issues, recent surgery, or pregnancy. Service animals are allowed.

What if I don’t see manta rays?
Since manta rays are wild animals, sightings cannot be guaranteed. If you don’t see rays, you can try again on a different night for a rebooking fee.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to 18 travelers to ensure personalized attention.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children can meet the basic swimming and climbing requirements and are comfortable in open water.

What makes this tour stand out from others?
The expert guides, use of powerful underwater lights, small group size, and location flexibility contribute to its reputation for reliable manta sightings and personalized experience.