Small Group, Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure!

Embark on an unforgettable small group adventure to snorkel with manta rays off the Kona coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. This thrilling experience offers a maximum of 13 travelers the chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With a friendly crew providing guidance, guests can expect close encounters and lasting memories. The short boat ride takes visitors to a prime manta ray viewing location, where they’ll have the opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close.

Key Points

• Small-group manta ray snorkeling tour off the Big Island of Hawaii, with a maximum of 13 participants.
• Boat ride to a prime manta ray viewing location, allowing observation of the creatures in their natural habitat.
• Snorkeling experience guided by a professional crew, with underwater dive lights attracting the manta rays.
• Limited group size ensures a personalized experience, though the tour is not wheelchair accessible.
• Positive reviews highlight close encounters with manta rays and a friendly crew, while some guests encountered booking issues.

Tour Overview

The Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure is a small-group tour that takes travelers on a short boat ride to a prime manta ray hangout spot off the Big Island of Hawaii.

The tour has 35 reviews with a 94% recommendation rate from travelers. It’s priced from $99.00 per person and limits the group size to 13 travelers for a small-group experience.

The meeting point is located at 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA. Guests must have basic swimming skills and previous snorkeling experience, as well as the ability to climb a boat ladder independently.

Highlights of the Experience

According to the provided information, the main highlights of the Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure include a short boat ride to a prime manta ray hangout spot, where travelers can observe the magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The experience features snorkeling in open water with wildlife, under the supervision of a professional crew. Guests have the opportunity to witness manta rays attracted by underwater dive lights, though basic swimming skills and previous snorkeling experience are required. Plus, the small-group size, limited to 13 travelers, ensures a more personalized and intimate experience.

Safety and Accessibility Considerations

Safety and accessibility are important considerations for the Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

It’s also not recommended for travelers with back problems, pregnant individuals, or those with serious medical conditions. However, life jackets are available upon request.

Guests must be able to climb a boat ladder independently. Confirmation and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience provide flexibility.

While the tour may not suit all travelers, the organizers prioritize safety to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for participants who meet the physical requirements.

Guest Feedback and Ratings

What do guests have to say about the Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure? Positive reviews highlight the close encounters with manta rays, friendly crew, and enjoyable boat ride. Guests praised the "fun atmosphere" and seeing "multiple manta rays". However, some cited issues with crew interactions, equipment availability, and booking problems. To summarize the feedback:

What’s Included and Meeting Point

The Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure includes the use of snorkeling equipment and wetsuits.

Participants meet at the designated location, 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA. From there, they’ll embark on a short boat ride to a prime manta ray hangout spot.

The small-group experience is limited to 13 travelers, ensuring a personalized and intimate encounter with these majestic creatures. Guests must have basic swimming skills and previous snorkeling experience to participate.

The adventure returns to the original meeting point at the end of the excursion.

Local Tips and Advice

Guests are advised to book the Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure early in their vacation to allow for the possibility of rescheduling if manta rays aren’t sighted on the initial trip.

The waters around Kona can be rough, so guests should consider seasickness remedies before the tour. The boat ride to the manta ray viewing site is short, but guests may still experience some motion on the water.

While snorkeling equipment and wetsuits are provided, guests should bring their own fins if preferred.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Travelers receive confirmation at the time of booking for the Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure. The experience allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. This provides guests with flexibility in their travel plans.

The tour operator emphasizes the importance of advance bookings, as the group size is limited to 13 travelers for an intimate experience. Guests are advised to book early in their vacation to have the option of rescheduling if manta rays aren’t spotted during the initial attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Depart?

The tour departure time is not specified in the provided information. The tour details do not include the specific departure time, so the answer cannot be determined from the given knowledge.

How Long Is the Boat Ride to the Manta Ray Site?

The boat ride to the manta ray site is short, taking just a few minutes to reach the prime location where the manta rays congregate. This allows for ample time to observe the manta rays in their natural habitat.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Guests can bring their own snorkeling equipment, but it’s not required. The tour provides snorkeling gear and wetsuits for use during the experience. Bringing personal equipment is an option, though the provided gear is included in the tour price.

Is Underwater Photography Allowed?

Underwater photography is typically allowed on snorkel tours, but guests should check with the tour operator beforehand. Some tours may have restrictions or require additional fees for using cameras underwater to protect the marine environment and wildlife.

What Should I Bring With Me on the Tour?

For any snorkeling tour, it’s recommended to bring a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and any medications you may need. Guests should also wear comfortable, water-friendly clothing and consider bringing a waterproof camera to capture the experience.

The Sum Up

The Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. With a small group size, personalized attention, and a crew dedicated to safety, guests can expect an exhilarating and memorable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, this adventure promises close encounters and lasting memories of Hawaii’s underwater wonders.