Kawaihae Whale Watch

Kawaihae Whale Watch offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales on the Big Island of Hawaii. Departing from Waimea, the tour takes adventurers aboard the spacious catamaran "Kohola," ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride. Guests can expect to see these magnificent creatures breach and socialize, guided by the knowledgeable crew. With convenient departure times and a free second tour if no whales are spotted, this all-inclusive experience promises an unforgettable encounter with the gentle giants of the Pacific. What sets this tour apart from the rest?

Key Points

• Kawaihae Whale Watch tour located on the Big Island of Hawaii, offering convenient midday and late afternoon departure times.
• Tour vessel "Kohola" is a powerful catamaran with spacious seating, shade cover, onboard restroom, and complimentary refreshments.
• Highlights include whale sightings and close encounters, with opportunities to observe humpback whales breaching and socializing.
• Knowledgeable crew provides insights into whale behaviors and migratory patterns, ensuring an exceptional whale watching experience.
• Positive traveler experiences, including memorable encounters with mothers and calves, and a free second tour if no whales are seen.

Location and Accessibility

The Kawaihae Whale Watch tour is located on the Big Island of Hawaii, USA. This convenient meeting point is situated at 61-3527 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743.

The tour departs from this location, with departure times available both midday and late afternoon. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants are welcome and can sit on laps. Service animals are also allowed.

Guests are advised to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cooler weather. The tour’s accessible location and flexible scheduling make it an appealing option for whale watching enthusiasts.

Vessel and Comfort

A powerful catamaran named "Kohola" serves as the vessel for the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour.

This fast powerboat provides optimal comfort for up to 6 travelers. The vessel’s catamaran design ensures a smooth and stable ride, allowing passengers to enjoy close encounters with whales in comfort.

Key features of the Kohola include:

1. Spacious seating area
2. Shade cover to protect from sun
3. Onboard restroom for convenience
4. Access to complimentary refreshments

The Kawaihae Whale Watch tour offers an exceptional whale watching experience, thanks to the reliable and comfortable Kohola catamaran.

Tour Details and Inclusions

Convenient departure times are available for the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour, with midday and late afternoon options to accommodate various schedules.

Included in the tour price are complimentary non-alcoholic beverages – soda, juice, and water. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are also covered, as are gratuities for the crew.

The meeting point is 61-3527 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, USA, and the tour ends back at the same location.

With a focus on convenience and all-inclusive pricing, the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour give you a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for its guests.

Whale Sightings and Activities

Whale sightings and close encounters with these majestic creatures are the highlights of the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour. Passengers have the opportunity to observe humpback whales breaching, slapping their fins, and socializing in their natural habitat.

The knowledgeable crew provides insights into the whales’ behaviors and migratory patterns. Travelers can expect to witness:

1. Mothers and their calves swimming together
2. Whales breaching the water’s surface
3. Spectacular views of the Kohala Coast
4. Educational commentary from the experienced guides

The fast-moving powerboat, "Kohola", ensures an optimal viewing experience, allowing guests to get up close and personal with these awe-inspiring marine mammals.

Recommendations and Preparation

Although the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience, travelers should come prepared to make the most of their whale-watching adventure.

Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is recommended to protect against the sun’s rays. A light jacket is also advisable for cooler weather. Binoculars can enhance the viewing experience, allowing guests to better observe the whales’ behaviors.

It’s important to keep in mind that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Customer Reviews and Highlights

Many travelers who’ve embarked on the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour have shared their positive experiences. Reviewers often highlight memorable close encounters with mothers and their calves, praising the knowledgeable guides who provide insightful information.

The beautiful weather and comfortable boat have also been noted as key highlights. Some notable reviews mention:

1. "The crew was fantastic, and we got to see whales on multiple occasions up close."
2. "The views of the Kohala Coast were breathtaking, and the informative commentary added to the experience."
3. "Despite not seeing whales on our first attempt, the company was gracious in offering a second tour free of charge."
4. "The small group size and powerful catamaran made for an optimal whale watching experience."

Booking Information and Cancellation Policy

The Kawaihae Whale Watch tour offers pricing from $186.24 per person.

Reservations can be made to secure your spot while staying flexible, with confirmation received at booking.

The tour features a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing travelers with the option to adjust their plans as needed.

Guests can expect a well-organized and responsive booking process, allowing them to focus on their upcoming whale watching adventure along the Kohala Coast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is not permitted on the tour. The vessel provides complimentary soda, juice, and water for passengers, which are included in the tour price.

Is There a Restroom Available on the Boat?

Yes, the boat has a restroom available for passengers’ convenience during the Kawaihae Whale Watch tour. This ensures a comfortable experience as you observe whales along the scenic Kohala Coast.

Do They Offer Any Additional Excursions or Activities?

The tour doesn’t offer any additional excursions or activities besides the whale watching experience. The focus is solely on providing close encounters with whales during the peak season from December to April.

What Should I Do if I Get Seasick During the Tour?

If you get seasick during the tour, let the crew know right away. They can provide seasickness medication or motion sickness bands to help alleviate your discomfort. Don’t hesitate to speak up – the crew is there to ensure you have an enjoyable experience.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age, but infants must sit on laps. There’s also no maximum age, though the tour may not be suitable for some travelers with mobility issues. The tour operator can provide guidance on the appropriate age range.

The Sum Up

Kawaihae Whale Watch offers an exceptional opportunity to witness the breathtaking sight of humpback whales in their natural habitat. With a spacious and comfortable catamaran, informative crew, and convenient booking options, this all-inclusive tour promises an unforgettable experience for visitors to the Big Island. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable adventure, Kawaihae Whale Watch is an adventure not to be missed.