Big Island: Morning Snorkel Sail to Captain Cooks Monument

Set out on a captivating adventure with the Morning Snorkel Sail to Captain Cook’s Monument on the Big Island. This 4.5-hour excursion delivers a chance to learn about the vibrant waters of Kealakekua Bay, where you’ll discover unique underwater lava formations and potentially spot majestic Hawaiian humpback whales. With a continental breakfast, lunch, and all necessary equipment provided, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts seeking to uncover the hidden gems of the Big Island.

This experience made our article of 12 Exceptional Cruises And Boat Tours In Island Of Hawaii.

Key Points

• A 4.5-hour morning snorkel sail that takes visitors to Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument, with the opportunity to see marine life and potentially humpback whales.
• Snorkeling activities include exploring vibrant coral reefs and unique underwater lava formations in the Marine Sanctuary.
• The tour includes a continental breakfast, lunch, and all necessary snorkeling equipment, with educational commentary from knowledgeable guides.
• Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.
• The tour departs from Keauhou Bay at 8:30 am, with an estimated return around 1 pm, and has an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 38 reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The Big Island: Morning Snorkel Sail to Captain Cook’s Monument is a 4.5-hour activity that allows visitors to explore the waters around the Big Island.

Priced from $179.15 per person, this excursion includes snorkeling with colorful marine life and the chance to spot Hawaiian humpback whales during the December to April season.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

With the option to reserve now and pay later, this activity provides a convenient way to experience the natural wonders of Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook’s Monument.

Experience Highlights

This snorkeling adventure offers the opportunity to witness colorful schools of fish and pods of spinner dolphins in the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay.

The unique underwater lava formations provide a captivating backdrop for the experience. Participants may also have the chance to see Hawaiian Humpback Whales, depending on the season (December to April).

The knowledgeable guides provide educational insights into the rich history and significance of this area.

The experience highlights include:

• Snorkeling with vibrant marine life

• Exploring unique underwater lava formations

• Potential sightings of Hawaiian Humpback Whales

• Educational commentary on Hawaiian history

• Opportunity to visit the Marine Sanctuary

Itinerary Details

Hoku Nui sets sail from Keauhou Bay at 8:30 am, embarking on the approximately 50-minute journey to Kealakekua Bay. Once there, guests will enjoy around 45 minutes of snorkeling at each location, including the Marine Sanctuary. Depending on conditions, the tour may also stop at "Red Hill" for additional snorkeling opportunities.

| Itinerary Details | |

| — | — |

| Departure | 8:30 am from Keauhou Bay |

| Sailing Time | Approx. 50 minutes to Kealakekua Bay |

| Snorkeling | Around 45 minutes at each location |

| Additional Site | Possible stop at "Red Hill" |

The tour is estimated to return to Keauhou Bay by 1 pm.

Included Amenities

The tour provides a continental breakfast and lunch for participants.

A continental breakfast and lunch are provided for all participants on the tour.

Beverages include tea, coffee, water, juice, and soda.

Snorkeling equipment such as masks, fins, snorkels, life jackets, and floatation noodles are also included.

Fish identification cards are available for purchase.

Plus, gratuities are covered, eliminating any out-of-pocket expenses for the participants.

• Continental breakfast and lunch

• Beverage selection

• Snorkeling equipment

• Fish identification cards

• Gratuities included

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Participant Information

Participants are asked to check-in 15 minutes prior to the 8:30 am departure at the Keauhou Bay Pier.

Guests should bring their swimwear, towel, and underwater camera.

Unfortunately, this activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

The tour has an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 38 reviews, with high praise for the guides, transportation, and value for money.

Snorkeling With Colorful Marine Life

Snorkeling enthusiasts can expect to encounter a vibrant underwater world teeming with colorful marine life during this excursion.

The experience offers the opportunity to:

• Observe schools of tropical fish in a variety of shapes, sizes, and brilliant hues

• Spot pod of spinner dolphins gracefully gliding through the crystal-clear waters

• Admire the unique lava formations and geological wonders of the seafloor

• Discover diverse coral communities and their intricate ecosystems

• Potentially catch glimpses of Hawaiian humpback whales during the seasonal migration (December – April)

This snorkeling adventure promises an immersive and captivating exploration of the Big Island’s aquatic marvels.

Discovering Unique Underwater Lava Formations

As participants venture into the depths of Kealakekua Bay, they’ll be treated to a captivating display of unique underwater lava formations.

The vibrant reds, oranges, and blacks of the cooled volcanic rock create a stunning visual landscape beneath the surface. Divers and snorkelers can explore the intricate textures and shapes, from smooth flowing forms to jagged edges and overhangs.

These lava structures provide a fascinating glimpse into the island’s geological history and offer a one-of-a-kind snorkeling experience. Underwater explorers will be amazed by the captivating display of nature’s artistry.

Potential Sightings of Hawaiian Humpback Whales

Though the tour takes place primarily in the warmer months, visitors may be fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of the majestic Hawaiian humpback whales during their annual migration, which typically runs from December through April.

The tour may provide opportunities to observe these magnificent creatures:

• Witnessing the whales’ impressive breaching as they leap out of the water

• Watching the whales’ distinctive blows as they surface to breathe

• Listening to the whales’ haunting songs echoing across the bay

• Seeing pods of whales swimming gracefully through the crystal-clear waters

• Observing the whales’ playful behaviors, such as tail slapping and fin waving

Ask Away

Are There Any Age or Swimming Ability Restrictions for Participants?

The activity doesn’t have any age or swimming ability restrictions. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. Participants should be able to swim and get in and out of the boat on their own.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Gear or Is It Provided?

Snorkeling equipment, including masks, fins, snorkels, life jackets, and floatation noodles, is provided on the tour. Participants don’t need to bring their own gear, but they’re welcome to use their own if they prefer.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Activity?

The maximum group size is not explicitly stated. However, the activity includes snorkeling equipment and provides amenities like breakfast and lunch, suggesting it can accommodate a reasonable number of participants. The exact group size is likely dependent on availability.

Is the Boat Accessible for Those With Limited Mobility?

The boat is not suitable for wheelchair users. It does not have provisions for accessible entry or mobility within the vessel. Passengers with limited mobility may find it challenging to board and move around on the boat.

Can We Purchase Additional Food or Beverage Options Onboard?

Additional food and beverage options are available to purchase onboard. The tour provides continental breakfast and lunch, but participants can buy extra snacks, beer, wine, or cocktails during the sail if desired.

Final Words

Set out on a captivating snorkel adventure to Captain Cook’s Monument on the Big Island. Marvel at the vibrant marine life and intriguing underwater lava formations, and if you’re lucky, spot majestic Hawaiian humpback whales. With a continental breakfast, lunch, and all necessary equipment provided, this 4.5-hour tour offers an immersive experience exploring the beauty of Kealakekua Bay.

You can check availability for your dates here: