Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Exploring the stunning Kealakekua Bay on a deluxe sail and snorkel adventure is an absolute must for any visitor to the Big Island. We’ll venture out on a 50-foot catamaran and immerse ourselves in the vibrant marine life, from schools of tropical fish to majestic sea turtles. But the true highlight lies in the opportunity to discover the historical significance of the Captain Cook Monument and the area’s captivating lava formations. With a delicious breakfast and lunch included, this excursion promises an unforgettable day on the water.

This experience made our article of Big Island of Hawaii’s 13 Top Cruises And Boat Tours.

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Key Points

A half-day excursion that offers snorkeling among diverse marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins, in Kealakekua Bay.
Comfortable sailing experience aboard a 50-foot catamaran, with a continental breakfast and delicious lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Guided tour with insights into the bay’s history and ecology, as well as panoramic views of the coastline and Kona mountains.
Snorkeling equipment, including reef-safe sunscreen, provided, with safety monitored by the crew and no full-face masks allowed.
High recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior.

Overview of the Deluxe Sail & Snorkel Experience

The Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument offers a captivating half-day excursion, allowing us to explore the top snorkeling sites in Kealakekua Bay.

With a maximum of 44 travelers, this tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide all the necessary equipment, including snorkeling gear and reef-safe sunscreen.

We’ll enjoy a continental breakfast and a delicious lunch as we sail on the 50-foot catamaran Hoku Nui.

The tour’s 98% recommendation rate and Badge of Excellence speak to its quality and the incredible marine life we’ll witness at the Captain Cook Monument and Red Hill underwater lava formations.

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Highlights of the Kealakekua Bay Tour

As we embark on this deluxe sail and snorkel adventure, the stunning Kealakekua Bay promises to unveil its captivating natural wonders.

We’ll explore the iconic Captain Cook Monument and marvel at the vibrant underwater lava formations of Red Hill.

The highlights of this tour include:

Snorkeling among a diverse array of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and perhaps even dolphins
Enjoying a continental breakfast and a delicious lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients
Sailing aboard a comfortable 50-foot catamaran with a knowledgeable crew dedicated to ensuring our safety and enjoyment
Gaining insights into the bay’s rich history and ecology from our expert guides
Capturing breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the majestic Kona mountains.

Detailed Schedule and Logistics

Before embarking on this deluxe sail and snorkel adventure, we’ll want to ensure we’ve all the necessary details squared away.

The meeting point is Keauhou Bay, where we’ll check in at 8:15 AM. Promptly at 8:30 AM, the 50-foot catamaran Hoku Nui, with its distinctive blue sail bag, will depart.

Our tour includes a continental breakfast, sandwiches, snacks, and beverages. The boat will return at 1:00 PM.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior. With a focus on safety, the crew will provide snorkeling equipment and monitor us in the water, though full-face masks aren’t allowed.

Delectable Breakfast, Lunch, and Refreshments

A continental breakfast awaits us as we board the boat, offering a variety of delectable options to fuel our adventure. We can indulge in:

Freshly baked pastries and muffins
A selection of seasonal fruits
Hearty sandwiches with deli meats and cheeses
Refreshing juices and sodas
Aromatic coffee and tea

As we sail, a tasty lunch is served, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and vegetarian-friendly options.

Snacks and beverages, including alcoholic choices for an additional charge, are available throughout the excursion to keep us energized and hydrated.

With these delightful culinary offerings, we’re sure to have an unforgettable dining experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of Kealakekua Bay.

Snorkeling Equipment and Safety Considerations

The crew provides us with all the necessary snorkeling equipment to explore the vibrant underwater world of Kealakekua Bay.

We’re given high-quality mask, snorkel, and fins that fit comfortably. To ensure our safety, they explain why full-face masks aren’t permitted – they can restrict air flow and visibility.

The crew closely monitors us in the water, ready to assist if needed. We appreciate their focus on our wellbeing as we discover the colorful marine life and stunning lava formations below the surface.

With their guidance, we feel confident and secure as we snorkel in this beautiful protected bay.

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Highly Recommended by Travelers

Over 430 travelers have reviewed this Deluxe Sail & Snorkel tour, and a remarkable 98% of them enthusiastically recommend it. Guests praise the crew’s knowledge, attentiveness, and safety focus.

The tour’s strong reputation is further bolstered by:

4.9-star average rating based on hundreds of reviews
Positive comments on food quality, snorkeling experiences, and overall organization
Many guests expressing interest in repeating the tour, highlighting enjoyable marine life sightings and beautiful locations
A prestigious "Badge of Excellence" from the tour provider
Confidence in the tour’s safety protocols and equipment provided

This high level of traveler satisfaction suggests an exceptional Deluxe Sail & Snorkel experience.

Exploring the Captain Cook Monument

Nestled within the tranquil waters of Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument stands as a testament to the intriguing history of this region.

As we approach the monument, we’re struck by its imposing presence rising from the sea.

Diving beneath the surface, we’re treated to a unique underwater perspective, with the monument’s base visible through the crystal-clear waters.

Here, we can explore the vibrant marine life that thrives in this protected area, from schools of tropical fish to the occasional sea turtle.

This opportunity to connect with both the historical and natural wonders of Kealakekua Bay is truly remarkable.

Unforgettable Underwater Lava Formations

Departing the Captain Cook Monument, we now turn our attention to the stunning underwater lava formations at Red Hill.

This diverse underwater landscape offers an incredible snorkeling experience:

Vibrant coral gardens teeming with tropical fish
Unique, sculptural lava rock formations to explore
Visibility reaching up to 100 feet on calm days
Chances to spot sea turtles, dolphins, and other marine life
An otherworldly, almost alien environment to discover

Our knowledgeable guides will point out the highlights and help us maximize our time in this remarkable natural wonder.

With safety as the top priority, we’re sure to have an unforgettable snorkeling adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?

We offer several discounts and packages for this tour. For example, we have group rates for parties of 4 or more, and combo packages that include other nearby attractions. Be sure to check our website or ask our staff about any current promotions.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

You’re welcome to bring your own snorkeling equipment, but we recommend using the provided gear as it’s high-quality and ensures a safe, comfortable experience. The crew will be happy to assist you with setting it up.

Is There a Place to Store My Personal Belongings During the Tour?

Yes, we have secure storage space on board the boat where you can leave your personal belongings during the tour. Your valuables will be safe and accessible throughout the excursion.

How Do I Ensure My Camera/Phone Is Protected While Snorkeling?

We recommend bringing a waterproof case or bag to protect your camera and phone while snorkeling. This will keep your devices safe and allow you to capture stunning underwater photos and videos during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?

We couldn’t find any options to extend the tour duration or add additional activities. However, the half-day cruise already covers the top snorkeling sites, so it seems like a well-rounded experience as-is. Let us know if you need any other information!

The Sum Up

The Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument is a must-do excursion for anyone visiting Kealakekua Bay. With a high recommendation rate, we’ll enjoy snorkeling among vibrant marine life, savor fresh local cuisine, and explore the historic Captain Cook Monument. It’s an unforgettable day of adventure and discovery that shouldn’t be missed.