Big Island: Kona Afternoon Dolphin Watch & Snorkel

Situated on Hawaii’s Big Island, the Kona Afternoon Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Departing from the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, this 2-hour excursion offers the chance to witness wild dolphins in their natural habitat and explore the vibrant underwater world through snorkeling. With an experienced guide leading the way, participants can expect a well-informed and engaging journey amidst the island’s stunning natural beauty. But the real question remains – what secrets might these crystal-clear waters hold?

Key Points

1. 2-hour Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour that offers the opportunity to observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat and go snorkeling with sea turtles and vibrant marine life.

2. Experienced English and Japanese-speaking guides, snorkeling equipment, and amenities like snacks, water, and juice provided during the tour.

3. Flexible "reserve now, pay later" option and full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience.

4. Specialized speedboat (KIBOU) designed for optimal dolphin watching and snorkeling, with an emphasis on close interactions with diverse marine life.

5. Seasonal whale watching opportunities from December to March, in addition to sightings of pan-tropical spotted dolphins and bottlenose dolphins.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour offers a 2-hour experience, priced from $120.00 per person.

The tour features a knowledgeable guide available in English and Japanese. Guests can fully cancel their booking for a full refund if done 24 hours in advance.

The tour also offers a flexible "reserve now, pay later" option. Aboard a specially designed speedboat (KIBOU), participants can watch wild dolphins, snorkel with sea turtles, and potentially spot seasonal whales.

Snorkeling equipment, including prescription goggles, is provided, along with snacks, water, and juice. Alcohol consumption is permitted after the snorkeling portion.

Experience Highlights

On the Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour, guests can watch wild dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkel with sea turtles, vibrant fish, and coral reefs.

The tour also offers seasonal whale watching from December to March. Guests will ride on a specially designed speedboat called KIBOU, which provides a thrilling experience.

The tour is optimized to maximize marine life interactions, and guests can expect to encounter pan-tropical spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and humpback whales.

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, a floating party mat, bathroom onboard, and snacks, water, and juice.

Itinerary Details

Guests depart from the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, Slip A-17 to embark on the Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour.

The excursion begins with dolphin watching, where guests may encounter pan-tropical spotted dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and even humpback whales during the seasonal whale watching period from December to March.

Following the dolphin sightings, the tour moves to pristine snorkeling spots to explore the vibrant marine life, including sea turtles and colorful coral reefs.

The experience is optimized to maximize opportunities for close interactions with the diverse array of marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Included Amenities

The Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience.

The Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the experience.

Snorkeling equipment, including prescription goggles, is provided. Guests can relax on the floating party mat and use the onboard bathroom.

Snacks, water, and juice are complimentary, and guests can bring their own alcohol (no glass containers). Optional wetsuit rentals are available.

Transportation to and from the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, Slip A-17 is included, ensuring a seamless start and end to the adventure.

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Preparation and Restrictions

Travelers should bring a towel and sunscreen for the Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour. Glass objects are prohibited on the tour.

Participants should take sea sickness medication an hour before the tour start time. The tour allows alcohol consumption, but only after the snorkeling portion.

The speedboat, KIBOU, is specially designed for an optimal marine life experience. The tour has reasonable preparation requirements and a few restrictions to ensure the safety and enjoyment of the participants.

Departure Location

The Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour departs from the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, Slip A-17. This convenient location offers easy access to the prime dolphin and snorkeling spots.

The departure point features:

1. Ample parking for tour guests

2. Restroom facilities nearby

3. Close proximity to the KIBOU speedboat for a smooth transition

4. Scenic views of the harbor and surrounding coastline

Guests should arrive at the designated slip a few minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a seamless start to their adventure.

Seasonal Highlights

Although the Kona Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour runs year-round, certain seasonal highlights make it an especially captivating experience.

From December through March, guests can spot majestic humpback whales as they migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters. These awe-inspiring encounters are a unique addition to the typical dolphin watching and snorkeling activities.

Plus, the cooler winter months often yield clearer water, enhancing the vibrant colors of the coral reefs and marine life.

Regardless of the season, the tour promises an unforgettable opportunity to witness the wonders of Hawaii’s underwater world.

Boat and Safety Details

The tour is conducted aboard the KIBOU, a specially designed speedboat that provides an exhilarating ride. This vessel is optimized for the tour, offering:

1. Ample seating and stability for comfortable dolphin watching and snorkeling

2. Onboard bathroom for convenience

3. Floating party mat for relaxation between activities

4. Snorkeling equipment, including prescription goggles, for a seamless experience

For safety, guests are advised to take sea sickness medication beforehand and avoid bringing glass objects.

Alcohol consumption is permitted after snorkeling. The tour prioritizes responsibly interacting with marine life to preserve the pristine environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

If you need to reschedule, you can cancel your booking 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now and pay later option available for added flexibility.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear Instead of Renting?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkel gear instead of renting. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but allows guests to use their own gear if preferred. This can save you the rental fee.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Requirement for the Tour?

There’s no minimum age, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour doesn’t have a maximum age, but participants should be able to swim and snorkel comfortably.

Do I Need to Be an Experienced Swimmer to Participate?

No, participants don’t need to be experienced swimmers. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, and the staff is trained to assist those who are less comfortable in the water. Beginners are welcome to join the dolphin watch and snorkeling activities.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible. It requires guests to board a boat and traverse uneven terrain to access the snorkeling spots. Alternative tours may be available for guests with mobility restrictions.

The Sum Up

The Kona Afternoon Dolphin Watch & Snorkel tour offers an unforgettable experience in Hawaii’s stunning natural setting. Guests can expect to spot wild dolphins, snorkel amidst vibrant marine life, and enjoy complimentary refreshments, all led by a knowledgeable guide. With a convenient departure location and a focus on safety, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an exciting and informative adventure on the Big Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: