Wake Up With the Whales Cruise from Anaeho’omalu Bay

Imagine waking up early to greet the dawn and setting out on the water with the anticipation of seeing whales breaching nearby. That’s exactly what the Wake Up With the Whales Cruise promises, and from the dozens of glowing reviews, it seems to deliver in spades. This 1.5-hour morning adventure on the Big Island’s Kohala Coast is favored by travelers for its friendly guides, stable catamaran, and, of course, the chance to see and hear Hawaii’s famous humpback whales.

We love that this cruise is designed to be accessible and fun—no long hours or strenuous activity here—and that it guarantees whale sightings, or you get to go again for free. Also, its location within the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary means you’re right where the action is, with less travel time and calmer waters in the morning. The only potential hiccup? The check-in location can be tricky to find, especially if you rely solely on Google Maps. But, with a little advance planning, that’s easily manageable.

This tour is perfect for families, whale enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a genuine encounter with nature’s gentle giants. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty—what makes this cruise stand out, and what you should know before booking.

Key Points

• Guaranteed whale sightings: Or you can cruise again for free, making it a risk-free experience.
• Expert naturalists onboard: Guides like Kai and Dave are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Calm morning waters: Early departures often mean smoother sailing and better viewing conditions.
• Interactive whale listening: Underwater hydrophones allow you to hear whale songs, a highlight for many.
• Comfortable, stable boat: The spacious catamaran provides great vantage points and mobility.
• All-inclusive snacks and drinks: Expect soft drinks, granola bars, and complimentary beers and wines.

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Departure and Check-in

The cruise departs bright and early at 8:00 am from Anaeho’omalu Beach—a location that many reviewers found convenient, especially if staying at nearby resorts like the Fairmont Orchid. The check-in instructions seem straightforward but beware: Google Maps doesn’t recognize the exact bay address, so guests are advised to follow detailed directions sent via email or contact the operator directly.

Once you arrive, you’ll board a sturdy, comfortable catamaran designed for stability—an important feature considering the ocean conditions. The boat’s spacious deck allows easy movement, so you’re free to find the best vantage point for photos or simply enjoy the scenery.

The Cruise Itself

Shortly after departure, the real magic begins. As the boat glides into the Whale Sanctuary waters, you’ll be greeted with engaging commentary from marine naturalists—not just guides, but passionate storytellers who bring the ocean and its inhabitants alive. Expect to learn about humpback whales, their migration patterns, and behaviors, with guides like DJ or Kai often praised for their friendliness and expertise.

The highlight is undoubtedly hearing the whale songs through an underwater hydrophone. Many reviewers describe this as a surreal, almost cinematic experience, with some noting that they could distinctly hear the whales’ blows, clicks, and haunting melodies. One guest shared, “With the microphone below the water to hear them, it was absolutely awesome,” and many said it added a magical, almost personal touch to the tour.

Whale Sightings and Encounters

According to reviews, whale sightings are virtually guaranteed. Guests often see 15-20 whales in a single trip, with some reports of breaching, fins, and flukes in the air. As one reviewer put it, “The show of breaching and fins in the air was absolutely incredible!” The early morning timing is generally the most favorable, with calmer waters and more active whales often making an appearance.

What sets this tour apart is the attention to visibility and accessibility. Guests have mentioned that they could get close—some as near as 10-20 feet—to the whales, thanks to the guides’ expertise in locating them. The boat’s mobility allows passengers to move around and find good angles, which is especially appreciated by keen photographers.

Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The onboard experience is relaxed and enjoyable. Snacks include crunchy granola bars and soft drinks, and there’s a selection of wines and beers—perfect for unwinding while watching whales and listening to their songs. Several reviewers highlighted the friendly, attentive crew, often mentioning guides like DJ and Kai by name, praising their knowledge, enthusiasm, and personable nature.

Returning and Post-Trip

The cruise concludes back at the starting point, typically around 9:30 am, leaving plenty of time to explore more of the Big Island or relax for the day. If, for some reason, whales aren’t spotted, the “see or cruise again free” guarantee provides peace of mind. Many guests have appreciated this policy, describing it as a sign of confidence and integrity on the part of Ocean Sports.

The Value for Money

At $125 per person, this tour offers a solid value for those eager to see whales in their natural habitat, especially considering the inclusive snacks, drinks, and expert commentary. The guarantee of whale sightings or another trip is a rare perk that adds peace of mind, particularly for first-timers or travelers with limited time.

Compared to longer or more expensive options, this cruise strikes a balance between quality and affordability. Travelers who value a comfortable, educational experience with high success rates for whale sightings will find this to be a worthwhile investment.

Authenticity and Unique Experiences

Many reviews mention the sound of whale songs as a standout feature, which is not always included in standard whale-watching tours. Having guides like Kai or Dave, who are described as knowledgeable and personable, enhances the realness of the experience. Their storytelling and interaction make the tour educational and fun, especially for children or those new to whale watching.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: Departing at 8:00 am during calm waters makes for a more enjoyable, smoother ride, and increases chances of whale sightings.
• Group Size: With a maximum of 49 travelers, the boat feels spacious without being crowded.
• Accessibility: The check-in location requires some attention to detail, but detailed directions and staff support make it manageable.
• Weather Dependency: Like all ocean excursions, the tour depends on good weather; cancellations are possible but will be fully refunded or rescheduled.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing morning adventure. The guarantee of seeing whales, combined with the friendly guides and incredible sound experience, makes it suitable even for first-time whale watchers. It also appeals to photographers wanting clear vantage points and those who enjoy a comfortable, well-organized boat.

Travelers with a moderate budget looking for authentic, educational, and fun encounters with nature will find this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for early risers who want the calmest waters and best chances of witnessing Hawaii’s legendary humpbacks.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The cruise departs at 8:00 am, making it an ideal early morning activity to catch calmer waters and active whales.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at Anaeho’omalu Beach, but be aware that the bay doesn’t have a formal address, so follow the provided directions carefully. Most guests find it helpful to verify the location with the tour operator.

Is the whale sighting guaranteed?
Yes. If you don’t see a whale, you can cruise again for free until you do, which provides reassurance, especially for first-timers.

What’s included in the price?
Snacks, soft drinks, beers, and wines are all included, along with live commentary from knowledgeable naturalists.

Is the boat accessible and comfortable?
Absolutely. The boat is described as spacious, stable, and designed for easy movement, especially important in ocean conditions.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

What about weather cancellations?
Tours require good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
The average booking window is about 30 days ahead, which helps secure your spot and ensures availability for this popular tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re eager to see Hawaii’s humpback whales in a setting that combines comfort, education, and guaranteed sightings, this cruise is a top pick. The friendly guides, spectacular whale sounds, and calm morning waters make it a memorable way to start the day. It’s a fantastic choice whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as a couple seeking a serene, nature-filled experience.

The value proposition is compelling when you consider all the inclusions and the guarantee. Plus, the opportunity to learn about whales from passionate naturalists adds depth that many standard tours lack. Just remember to confirm your meeting location in advance, and you’ll be all set for an unforgettable morning with the whales.

In essence, this cruise is best for those who want a well-rounded, authentic whale-watching experience that combines comfort, education, and a touch of magic—early morning, bright-eyed, and ready for some whale songs.