Set out on a captivating 3-hour snorkel cruise from Keauhou Bay to the iconic Captain Cook’s Monument. This guided adventure aboard the Catamaran HokuNui takes you to the vibrant Kealakekua Bay, where you can explore colorful reefs and encounter diverse marine life. With high-quality snorkeling gear provided and a knowledgeable crew ensuring your safety, this unforgettable experience promises stunning underwater scenery. But the real highlight? The chance to witness seasonal Hawaiian humpback whales – a sight that’ll leave you in awe.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Island Of Hawaii.

Key Points

  • The 3-hour snorkel cruise departs from Keauhou Bay and visits the vibrant Kealakekua Bay, home to colorful reefs and underwater lava formations.
  • Guests can spot seasonal sightings of Hawaiian humpback whales and pods of spinner dolphins during the guided exploration along the Kona coast.
  • High-quality snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and snorkels, is provided, and the experienced crew offers assistance during the snorkeling activities.
  • The tour includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and a live English-speaking guide, with light snacks and beverages available for purchase.
  • Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview and Pricing

From Keauhou Bay: Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cooks Monument - Activity Overview and Pricing

For this Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cook’s Monument, the activity overview and pricing details are as follows.

The tour departs from Keauhou Bay and lasts 3 hours, costing £101.90 per person. Guests can enjoy a guided catamaran tour along the Kona coast, with the opportunity to snorkel in the vibrant Kealakekua Bay.

There’s a chance to spot seasonal Hawaiian humpback whales and pods of spinner dolphins, as well as unique underwater lava formations.

The tour includes transportation, snorkeling gear, and a live English-speaking guide. Guests can also purchase light snacks, tropical juice, and cocktails during the cruise.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and guests can reserve their spot without immediate payment.

Highlights of the Experience

From Keauhou Bay: Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cooks Monument - Highlights of the Experience

The snorkel cruise offers an array of highlights that make it an enticing experience. Guests can look forward to:

  1. Guided exploration of the Kona coast aboard a comfortable catamaran.

  2. Snorkeling in the vibrant Kealakekua Bay, home to a colorful reef and diverse marine life.

  3. Seasonal sightings of majestic Hawaiian humpback whales during the winter months.

  4. Discovering unique underwater lava formations and the chance to spot playful pods of spinner dolphins.

With light snacks, tropical juice, and cocktail service available, the cruise provides a well-rounded adventure for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii’s marine ecosystem.

Snorkeling Adventure Details

From Keauhou Bay: Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cooks Monument - Snorkeling Adventure Details

Embarking on the snorkel cruise, guests enjoy the vibrant aquatic world of Kealakekua Bay.

They’ll be provided with high-quality snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, snorkels, life jackets, and floatation noodles, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience.

The knowledgeable crew will offer assistance during the snorkeling adventure, and lifeguards will be present to ensure everyone’s safety.

Guests can expect to encounter a diverse array of marine life, from colorful fish to unique underwater lava formations and possibly even pods of spinner dolphins.

With the crew’s expertise and the stunning natural beauty of the bay, this snorkel cruise promises an unforgettable adventure.

Boat and Tour Guide Information

Aboard the Catamaran HokuNui, guests embark on a guided tour led by knowledgeable, English-speaking crew members.

The tour includes:

  1. Transportation by boat to the best snorkeling spots along the Kona coast.
  2. Provision of high-quality snorkeling equipment, including masks, fins, snorkels, life jackets, and floatation noodles.
  3. Assistance from crew members during the snorkeling activity, with lifeguards on duty to ensure safety.
  4. Optional purchase of fish identification cards and SeaParadise merchandise to enhance the overall experience.

The crew’s expertise, coupled with the well-equipped vessel, ensures a seamless and enjoyable snorkeling adventure for all guests.

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What to Bring and Expectations

For the Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cook’s Monument, guests are recommended to bring a few essential items.

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat are advised to protect against the elements. Swimwear, towels, and sandals are a must for the snorkeling portion of the tour.

Visitors should also bring a camera to capture the stunning underwater scenery and marine life.

It’s important to note that full-face masks and shoes aren’t allowed on the boat.

While limited dry storage is available, guests are encouraged to pack light and leave valuables at home.

Following these recommendations will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable snorkel cruise experience.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

From Keauhou Bay: Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cooks Monument - Customer Ratings and Feedback

The Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cook’s Monument has consistently impressed customers, earning an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars based on 199 reviews.

Customers have particularly praised:

  1. The knowledgeable and helpful tour guides, who received a 4.9/5 rating.
  2. The comfortable and well-maintained transportation, with a 4.9/5 rating for the boat.
  3. The exceptional service from the crew, earning a perfect 5/5 score.
  4. The overall organization and smooth operation of the tour, rated 4.8/5.

Positive feedback highlights the crew’s attentiveness, the boat’s cleanliness, and the high-quality snorkeling equipment provided.

Many recommend the morning tours for better visibility and conditions.

Seasonal Whale Sightings

During the winter months, from December through April, guests on the Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cook’s Monument have the chance to witness the majestic presence of Hawaiian humpback whales.

These gentle giants can often be spotted breaching the surface or displaying their impressive fluke-slapping behaviors. The tour’s catamaran provides an ideal vantage point for observing the whales’ seasonal migration and socializing rituals.

While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the crew’s expertise and the cruise’s prime location increase the likelihood of encountering these awe-inspiring marine mammals.

Guests should keep their eyes peeled and cameras ready to capture the unforgettable moments of these whale encounters.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Customers can reserve their spot on the Snorkel Cruise to Captain Cook’s Monument without immediate payment, as the tour operator offers a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option.

The experience also features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.

Key details about booking and cancellation include:

  1. Reserve your spot without paying upfront.
  2. Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour.
  3. The price per person is £101.90.
  4. The 3-hour cruise departs from Keauhou Bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling equipment. However, the tour provides high-quality snorkeling gear, so it’s often more convenient to use the equipment included with the tour.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Activity?

There is no minimum age requirement for this snorkel cruise. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, and the crew provides assistance and appropriate snorkeling equipment for younger participants.

Does the Tour Offer Any Special Dietary Accommodations?

The tour doesn’t mention any special dietary accommodations, but it offers light snacks, tropical juice, and cocktail service that passengers can purchase during the cruise. Travelers with specific dietary needs should check with the operator prior to booking.

How Many People Are Typically on Each Tour?

The tours typically accommodate around 25-30 guests, providing an intimate and personalized snorkeling experience. The small group size ensures close interaction with the knowledgeable guides and a more enjoyable time on the water.

Is There an Option to Upgrade or Add-On Additional Experiences?

The activity offers no option to upgrade or add-on additional experiences. It’s a single 3-hour snorkel cruise package from Keauhou Bay to Captain Cook’s Monument, with snorkeling gear, guides, and light refreshments included in the fixed price.

Recap

This snorkel cruise offers an unforgettable adventure in Kealakekua Bay. With top-notch gear, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to spot whales, it’s a must-do for ocean lovers. The vibrant reefs and diverse marine life make this a truly captivating experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, this guided tour from Keauhou Bay to the Captain Cook Monument is sure to leave you awestruck.

You can check if your dates are available here: