The Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the graceful movements of these majestic creatures. With a maximum of 6 passengers, the small group size ensures an intimate experience as participants snorkel alongside the manta rays, drawn to the boat’s light board by the plankton they feed on. Boasting overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour provides all the necessary equipment and a certified guide to lead the way. But the true allure lies in the awe-inspiring encounter with these massive, serene giants in their natural habitat.
Key Points
- This exclusive manta ray night snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, accommodates a maximum of 6 passengers for an intimate, up-close encounter with these majestic marine animals.
- The tour includes snorkeling equipment, a certified guide, and gratuities, providing a hassle-free experience for guests to witness the manta rays’ breathtaking movements.
- Located near the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, the tour requires basic swimming and snorkeling skills, and is not suitable for those with certain medical conditions or back problems.
- With its 5.0 rating and over 200 glowing reviews, this tour is a must-do activity for visitors to the Big Island, known for its vibrant manta ray sightings.
- Early reservation is highly recommended, as the tour’s small group size and popularity result in limited availability.
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Overview
This Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii offers a unique and thrilling encounter with these majestic creatures, accommodating a maximum of 6 passengers for an intimate and personalized experience.
The Big Island of Hawaii is renowned for its vibrant night-time manta ray encounters, and this ultra-small-group tour takes guests out on the water to witness the mesmerizing sight.
The boat’s light board attracts the manta rays, creating a glow in the water and enhancing the overall experience.
With 218 glowing reviews, this tour is a must-do activity for those visiting the Big Island, providing an unforgettable opportunity to get up close and personal with these gentle giants of the sea.
Inclusions
The Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona includes the use of snorkeling equipment and a shorty wetsuit to keep guests comfortable during the experience. Plus, a certified in-water guide/lifeguard accompanies the small group, ensuring their safety and providing expert guidance throughout the tour. Gratuities are also included, so guests can fully enjoy the awe-inspiring encounter with these majestic marine creatures without worrying about additional costs.
| Inclusions | ||
|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling Equipment | Shorty Wetsuit | Certified In-Water Guide/Lifeguard |
| Gratuities | No Private Transportation | – |
This ultra-small-group tour, limited to just 6 snorkelers, offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the captivating manta ray night dance in the waters off the Big Island of Hawaii.
Meeting and Pickup
Guests meet at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor for the Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona.
From Highway 19, they’ll need to turn west toward the ocean on Kealakehe Parkway, take the first right turn to enter the north side of the harbor, and follow the road around to a large dirt parking lot near the Public Restroom Pavilion.
This is the designated meeting point for the tour. Once everyone has arrived, the staff will provide further instructions and escort the group to the boat launch area.
Guests should plan to arrive with enough time to park and get ready for the start of the excursion.
Tour Details
Upon booking, guests receive confirmation of their Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and it’s recommended for those without back problems, pregnant travelers, or individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. Basic swimming skills and previous snorkeling experience are required, as guests must be able to independently climb a boat ladder and converse in English.
While lifejackets are available upon request, there’s no guarantee of manta ray sightings, though a rebooking option is offered if none are seen during the excursion.
The small-group tour is limited to just 6 snorkelers, and the boat’s light board attracts the majestic manta rays, making for an unforgettable night experience in the waters of Hawaii’s Big Island.
Reviews
Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the small group size, knowledgeable staff, and amazing manta ray encounters that make this Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour in Kailua-Kona a must-do Big Island experience. With a 5.0 rating based on 218 reviews, this ultra-small-group tour has impressed travelers who rave about the magical experience of swimming alongside these gentle giants.
| Review Highlights | Standout Quotes |
|---|---|
| Small group size | "The small group size was perfect and allowed us to get up close with the mantas." |
| Knowledgeable staff | "The guides were incredibly knowledgeable and made the experience unforgettable." |
| Manta ray sightings | "Seeing the mantas glide effortlessly through the illuminated water was breathtaking." |
Manta Ray Encounter
The true highlight of this Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour is the opportunity to swim alongside these gentle, mesmerizing creatures as they glide effortlessly through the illuminated waters.
Drawn to the boat’s light board, the manta rays feed on the plankton that congregate around the glow, allowing snorkelers to observe their graceful movements up close.
As the manta rays sweep through the water, their wing-like fins propel them forward with a hypnotizing rhythm.
Seeing these massive yet serene animals in their natural habitat is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Snorkelers can expect to be in awe of the manta rays’ size, agility, and sheer beauty as they dance beneath the surface.
Booking and Availability
This Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour books up quickly, so travelers should reserve their spots well in advance. With a maximum group size of just 6 snorkelers, availability is limited. Guests can confirm their booking at the time of purchase and will receive all necessary details leading up to the tour.
The tour departs from the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, and guests will need to provide their own transportation to the meeting point. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s located near public transportation.
Certain medical conditions and back problems may make the tour unsuitable, so guests should review the requirements carefully before booking. This intimate manta ray encounter is a sought-after Big Island experience, so early reservation is highly recommended.
Preparing for the Tour
To ensure a seamless manta ray snorkeling experience, guests should meticulously prepare for the tour by familiarizing themselves with the necessary equipment and safety protocols. The tour provides snorkeling gear, including a shorty wetsuit, to keep guests comfortable in the cool ocean waters. However, guests are encouraged to pack any personal items they may need, such as towels, water, and snacks. Plus, the tour requires basic swimming skills and previous snorkeling experience, so guests should assess their abilities beforehand. By being well-prepared, guests can maximize their chances of encountering these majestic marine creatures and creating unforgettable memories.
| Equipment Provided | Personal Items to Pack | Safety Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Snorkeling Gear | Towels | Basic Swimming Skills |
| Shorty Wetsuit | Water & Snacks | Previous Snorkeling Experience |
| – | – | Ability to Climb Boat Ladder |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?
Yes, guests are allowed to bring their own snorkel gear. However, the tour provides high-quality rental equipment, including a shorty wetsuit, which is included in the tour price. Using the provided gear ensures a comfortable and safe snorkeling experience.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?
The tour doesn’t have a specific minimum age requirement. However, participants must be able to swim independently and follow instructions. Children are welcome, but their safety and enjoyment depend on their swimming abilities.
Can I Request a Particular Seating Position?
While guests cannot request specific seating positions, the small group size ensures everyone has an excellent view. The tour’s certified guides aim to provide each passenger with the best possible experience during the manta ray snorkel.
How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?
The tour typically lasts around 2 to 3 hours. It includes the boat ride, time spent observing the manta rays, and transportation back to the starting location. The duration may vary depending on the weather conditions and the sighting activity of the manta rays.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour company provides complimentary use of snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and a certified guide, but doesn’t allow outside food or beverages to be brought aboard the boat.
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Recap
The Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
With a maximum of 6 passengers, the small group size ensures an unparalleled and intimate experience, allowing you to witness the graceful movements of the manta rays as they feed on plankton.
Featuring overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour provides snorkeling equipment, a certified guide, and an awe-inspiring encounter with the massive, serene manta rays.
