Big Island: Kona Whale Watching Tour

The Big Island’s Kona Whale Watching Tour offers an unforgettable 3-hour adventure for nature enthusiasts. This seasonal tour runs from November to April, showcasing the majestic humpback whale migration. Guests embark on a 2-hour catamaran ride along the picturesque coastline, enjoying complimentary snacks and drinks while catching glimpses of potential mother-calf pairs. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this highly-rated experience promises a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the whales’ captivating behavior up close. Wondering what else this tour has in store? Let’s dive in and explore the details.

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Key Points

A 3-hour whale watching tour on a catamaran, priced from $103.66 per person and available from November to April during the humpback whale migration season.
Opportunity to see majestic humpback whales, including potential sightings of mother-calf pairs, along with scenic views of the Big Island’s coastline.
Tour led by a live English-speaking guide and includes complimentary snacks and drinks, providing a unique perspective of Hawaii from the water.
Free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option available, with various start times for booking convenience.
Departure from Honokohau Harbor, located 3.5 miles north of Kailua Kona town, with clear directions for easy access and a crew member to greet guests.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Kona Whale Watching Tour provides a 3-hour experience, with a 2-hour catamaran ride along the Big Island’s coast.

Priced from $103.66 per person, the tour is likely to sell out, especially during the seasonal November-April window when humpback whales migrate to Hawaii.

Led by a live English-speaking guide, the tour offers the chance to see majestic whales, including mothers and babies, while also enjoying scenic coastal views.

Advance reservations are recommended, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

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Experience Highlights

Travelers can look forward to seeing majestic humpback whales during the Kona Whale Watching Tour. The 2-hour catamaran ride offers scenic views of the Big Island’s coastline, providing a unique perspective of Hawaii. Guests may spot mothers and their calves as they migrate to warmer waters. The tour also includes complimentary snacks and drinks to enjoy while taking in the sights.

| Key Highlights | What You’ll See | Inclusions |

| — | — | — |

| Humpback Whales | Scenic Big Island Views | Snacks and Drinks |

| Mother-Calf Pairs | Unique Hawaiian Coastline | Live Tour Guide |

| Seasonal Migration | Panoramic Perspectives | Free Cancellation |

Booking Information

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

They can also opt for the reserve now & pay later option if needed.

Booking availability is provided for various start times, allowing guests to choose the most convenient time.

The Kona Whale Watching Tour is a popular activity, so it’s recommended to reserve in advance as it’s likely to sell out, especially during the whale watching season from November to April.

Meeting Point and Directions

The Kona Whale Watching Tour departs from Honokohau Harbor, located 4.5 miles south of the Kona Airport and 3.5 miles north of Kailua Kona town.

To reach the meeting point, enter Honokohau Harbor and take the second right. A crew member will be waiting in front of the restrooms to greet you.

The tour’s convenient location provides easy access, allowing you to focus on the whale watching experience rather than navigation.

With clear directions, you can arrive at the harbor relaxed and ready to embark on this unforgettable tour.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

A total of 35 reviews have been left for the Kona Whale Watching Tour, resulting in an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

The tour guide and transportation received particularly high praise, with 4.8/5 ratings for both.

Customers highlighted the tour as a "once in a lifetime experience" and a "fantastic experience, worth every penny."

Key highlights from the reviews include:

"Great crew, informative, and attentive." – Cheryl
"Fantastic experience, worth every penny." – Sandra
"Once in a lifetime experience." – Pedro

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Whale Watching Etiquette

While the Kona Whale Watching Tour offers an awe-inspiring encounter with these majestic creatures, it’s crucial to observe proper whale watching etiquette to ensure the safety and well-being of both the whales and the tour participants.

Maintain a respectful distance from the whales and avoid sudden movements or loud noises that could startle them. Never attempt to touch or feed the whales.

If mothers and calves are spotted, give them extra space and don’t approach too closely.

Respect the instructions of the tour guide, who’s trained to provide a safe and responsible whale watching experience.

What to Bring

When packing for the Kona Whale Watching Tour, visitors should bring a few essential items to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. The tour often includes a 2-hour catamaran ride, so visitors should pack the following:

Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the island sun
Light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes
A camera or binoculars to capture the whales and scenic views

Plus, the tour provides snacks and drinks, but bringing a reusable water bottle is always a good idea.

With these items in tow, guests can fully enjoy the magic of the Kona whale watching adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the frequently asked questions about the Kona Whale Watching Tour? Passengers often wonder about the best time to spot whales, what to wear, and whether food and drinks are included. The tour operates during the whale watching season from November to April when humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off Hawaii’s Kona coast. Guests should dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are provided onboard the catamaran. The 2-hour tour departs from Honokohau Harbor, located just a short drive from Kona. Reserving your spot in advance is recommended, as tours can sell out quickly.

| FAQ | Answer |

| — | — |

| When is the best time to see whales? | November – April |

| What should I wear? | Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes |

| Are food and drinks included? | Yes, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are provided |

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Children Allowed on the Tour?

Children are allowed on the tour. The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, so families with children can participate in the whale watching experience. However, it’s recommended that parents consider their child’s interest and ability to enjoy the 3-hour excursion.

How Likely Are We to See Whales?

According to the tour overview, you’re likely to see majestic humpback whales during the seasonal tour period from November to April. The guides are experienced in spotting the whales, including mothers and their calves.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages on the tour. However, the tour operator provides complimentary snacks and drinks, so bringing your own may not be necessary. Check with the company for any restrictions on outside food and drinks.

Is the Boat Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat is wheelchair accessible. Guests with mobility challenges can easily board the catamaran and enjoy the whale watching tour. The tour operator provides assistance to ensure a comfortable and inclusive experience for all passengers.

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

Gratuity is not included in the tour price. Customers are expected to tip the guide and crew at their discretion based on the quality of service provided during the 3-hour whale watching experience.

The Sum Up

The Kona Whale Watching Tour on the Big Island promises a breathtaking 3-hour experience. Guests can witness majestic humpback whales during their seasonal migration from November to April. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers complimentary snacks and drinks, stunning coastal views, and a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure. With high ratings, this tour is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the Big Island.