Exploring the captivating waters off Kona’s coast, the Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour offers an unforgettable encounter with Hawaii’s mesmerizing marine life. Guests can witness the graceful movements of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins and, during the seasonal migration, the awe-inspiring Humpback Whales. With informative narration and complimentary amenities, this 2.5-hour adventure promises an immersive experience amidst Kona’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a captivating adventure, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour dolphin and whale watching tour along Kona’s coastline, priced at $107.63 per person.
- Opportunities to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback Whales (seasonal), sea turtles, monk seals, and manta rays.
- Narrated cruise with insights on history, geology, and marine life, and access to onboard binoculars and underwater hydrophone.
- Stunning views of Kona’s rugged volcanic landscape and coastline, and observation of marine creatures’ aerial stunts and graceful movements.
- Strict health and safety restrictions, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and no restroom facilities on the boat.
Tour Overview and Highlights
This 2.5-hour dolphin and whale watching tour provides the opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Kona’s coastline.
Priced from $107.63 per person, the tour offers the chance to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback Whales (seasonal), sea turtles, monk seals, and manta rays.
Spot majestic Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback Whales, sea turtles, monk seals, and manta rays on this $107.63 per person tour.
Guests can listen to whale songs via an underwater hydrophone and explore sea caves, arches, and lava tubes. The captain’s narration and interactive program share insights on the area’s history, geology, and wildlife.
Onboard binoculars allow for closer views of the marine creatures. Complimentary island juices and bottled water are provided, though no meals or snacks.
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Wildlife and Scenic Experience
The dolphin and whale watching tour offers a chance to witness the aerial stunts of dolphins and breaching whales along Kona’s breathtaking coastline.
The narrated cruise provides insights on the region’s history, geology, and diverse marine life. Guests may spot Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback Whales (seasonal), sea turtles, monk seals, and manta rays.
The tour offers a captivating wildlife and scenic experience:
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Opportunities to observe the graceful movements and acrobatic displays of dolphins and whales.
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Insights into the ecology and behavior of the marine creatures through the captain’s knowledgeable narration.
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Stunning views of Kona’s rugged volcanic landscape and coastline.
Inclusions and Amenities
The tour includes captain narration and the use of onboard binoculars to provide guests with closer views of the marine life.
Complimentary island juices and bottled water are offered, though no meals or snacks are provided.
Gratuity and transportation to the meeting point aren’t included in the tour price. Guests are responsible for their own transportation and should plan accordingly if using a ride-sharing service.
The tour emphasizes the natural wildlife and scenic experience, without any additional amenities beyond the core inclusions.
Meeting Point and Check-in Information
Guests check in at the Keauhou Shopping Center, located at 78-6831 Alii Drive.
From there, they’ll drive to the tour’s departure point at Keauhou Bay, 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.
Uber riders should plan their stops accordingly, as guests are responsible for their own transportation.
To participate, guests must complete an e-waiver for each person at the provided link: e-waiver link.
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Check-in at the Keauhou Shopping Center.
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Drive to the tour’s departure point at Keauhou Bay.
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Complete the required e-waiver for each guest.
Health and Safety Restrictions
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
This tour isn’t suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, wheelchair users, or individuals over 70.
Guests should bring sunglasses, hats, cameras, and sunscreen.
Pets, smoking, large bags, intoxication, vaping, alcohol, drugs, sprays, and unaccompanied minors aren’t allowed.
There are no restroom facilities on the boat.
This ensures the safety and comfort of all participants throughout the 2.5-hour excursion to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine life along Kona’s scenic coastline.
Preparing for the Tour
When planning for the dolphin and whale watching tour, guests should ensure they’ve all the necessary items.
The tour company recommends bringing a few key items to make the most of the experience:
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Sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun’s rays.
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Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and enhance marine life viewing.
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A camera or smartphone to capture the stunning scenery and potential wildlife sightings.
Guests should also dress comfortably in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable.
What to Expect During the Tour
During the 2.5-hour tour, guests can expect an interactive and educational experience led by a knowledgeable captain.
The tour offers the chance to see a variety of marine life, including Hawaiian spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), sea turtles, monk seals, and manta rays. Guests can listen to whale songs through an underwater hydrophone and explore sea caves, arches, and lava tubes along the coastline.
Onboard binoculars provide closer views of the wildlife. The captain’s narration shares insights on the history, geology, and ecology of the area, creating an immersive and informative tour.
Additional Information
The tour operator requires guests to complete an electronic waiver prior to the tour’s departure. This ensures all participants understand and agree to the safety protocols and limitations of the excursion.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including:
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Children under 5 years old
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Pregnant women
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Those with back, heart, or mobility issues
Guests should plan their transportation accordingly, as the meeting point and tour departure location are separate.
Restroom facilities aren’t available on the boat, so visitors should plan accordingly. The tour company enforces strict policies to maintain a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour?
Customers should book the tour at least 24 hours in advance to secure their spot. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, allowing flexibility in planning.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Guests are not allowed to bring their own food or drinks on the boat. The tour provides complimentary island juices and bottled water, but no meals or snacks are included in the experience.
What Should I Wear for the Tour?
The tour operator recommends wearing comfortable, layered clothing, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection like hats and sunglasses. Bringing a lightweight jacket is also advised, as the ocean breeze can be cool.
Is There an Age Limit for Children on the Tour?
The tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old. Guests of all ages are welcome, but the activity may not be appropriate for very young children due to health and safety restrictions.
Can I Take Videos and Photos During the Tour?
Yes, guests are welcome to take photos and videos during the tour. The tour includes the use of onboard binoculars to get closer views of the marine life along the coastline.
The Sum Up
The Kona: Dolphin & Whale Watching Tour offers a unique opportunity to witness Hawaii’s stunning coastal landscapes and diverse marine life. Guests can expect to see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, seasonal Humpback Whales, and other fascinating creatures, while learning about the area’s ecology and history. With complimentary drinks and onboard binoculars, this 2.5-hour adventure provides an immersive and memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.
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