Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise & Wildlife Watch With Lunch

Nestled along the stunning Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island lies the charming harbor town of Kawaihae, the starting point for an unforgettable luxury snorkel cruise and wildlife watching adventure. Guests aboard this enriching excursion can explore vibrant marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whales, while savoring a picnic lunch onboard. With top-notch equipment and attentive crew members providing in-water assistance, participants can safely enjoy the crystal-clear waters, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. But the true allure of this experience lies in the captivating blend of relaxation, education, and breathtaking scenery that awaits those who choose to embark on this remarkable journey.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Lunch Experiences In Big Island of Hawaii.

Key Points

• A guided tour to explore the marine wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island, including opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and whales.
• Includes a picnic lunch with water, soda, juice, and snacks, as well as snorkel equipment and in-water assistance for a comfortable experience.
• Departs from the meeting point at 61-3527 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, with clear directions and on-site crew support.
• Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour is not suitable for individuals with severe physical limitations or wheelchair users.
• Overwhelmingly positive reviews from guests, highlighting the educational insights, wildlife encounters, and overall quality of the cruise experience.

Overview of the Cruise

Embarking on a Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise takes visitors on an immersive journey to explore the marine wonders of Hawaii’s Big Island.

The guided tour provides a comprehensive experience, offering commentary on the local environment, opportunities to spot diverse wildlife, and the chance to swim and snorkel in the pristine waters.

Guests can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including dolphins, turtles, and even whales during the peak season from December to April.

The cruise also includes a picnic lunch, ensuring a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, education, and relaxation in the stunning natural setting of the Hawaiian coastline.

Inclusions and Amenities

The Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise provides a well-equipped experience, offering guests a picnic lunch with water, soda, and juice, as well as the necessary snorkel equipment and flotation devices for the water-based activities.

Guests can count on in-water assistance during snorkeling to ensure their safety and comfort.

The cruise also includes live tour commentary in English, providing travelers with an informative and educational experience about the marine environment and local wildlife.

Plus, snacks and bottled water are included throughout the tour, keeping guests hydrated and energized.

With these comprehensive amenities, the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise is designed to deliver a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Meeting Point and Directions

Travelers can find the meeting point for the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise at 61-3527 Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743, USA.

From Highway 19, they’ll want to bear left onto Akoni Pule Hwy270, heading north on Route 270.

Look for the green gate enclosing the port and follow the signs to the vessel ‘Kohola’ at slip S-01.

The activity concludes back at the same meeting point.

Getting to and from the departure point is straightforward, and the crew will be on-site to assist travelers.

With clear directions and a designated meeting location, guests can focus on enjoying the scenic cruise and wildlife-watching experience.

Physical Requirements

Participants should possess a moderate level of physical fitness, as the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise involves wet conditions on a fast powerboat. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

The experience requires a reasonable level of agility, as guests will be getting in and out of the boat and into the water for snorkeling. Those with mobility issues or young infants unable to sit upright may find the activity challenging.

However, the crew provides assistance during the snorkeling portion, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

It’s important to dress appropriately in swimsuits, towels, hats, and non-spray sunscreen.

Policies and Restrictions

While the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise caters to participants of moderate physical fitness, there are a few important policies and restrictions to consider.

Maximum capacity is limited to 6 travelers per tour, and the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, so children must be accompanied by an adult.

Service animals are allowed, but infants must sit on laps.

Guests are expected to dress appropriately in swimsuits, bring towels, hats, and non-spray sunscreen, as wet conditions are anticipated on the fast powerboat.

The cruise may not be suitable for those with severe physical limitations, as a moderate fitness level is required to navigate the boat and participate in snorkeling activities.

Guest Feedback

Reviewers have expressed overwhelmingly positive sentiments about the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise, praising the friendly crew, safety considerations, and informative commentary on the marine environment and Hawaiian history.

Highlights of the guest feedback include:

• The crew’s attentiveness and willingness to provide in-water assistance during snorkeling, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

• The educational value of the live tour commentary, which offered insights into the local marine life and Hawaiian cultural traditions.

• The picturesque scenery and the opportunity to spot dolphins, turtles, and whales (in season) during the cruise.

• The overall quality of the experience, with one reviewer describing it as a ‘beautiful day’ and another calling it a ‘great ocean excursion.’

Marine Environment and Wildlife

The Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise takes participants on an immersive journey through the vibrant underwater world of the Big Island’s marine habitats, offering ample opportunities to spot a diverse array of wildlife.

With the expert guidance of the knowledgeable crew, guests can expect to encounter an array of marine creatures, from playful dolphins and majestic sea turtles to, during the whale watching season, the awe-inspiring humpback whales that grace the waters.

The shallow, clear waters around Kawaihae also provide an ideal setting for snorkeling, allowing visitors to observe the intricate coral formations and vibrant schools of tropical fish that call this ecosystem home.

The cruise’s focus on education and conservation ensures guests leave with a deeper appreciation for Hawaii’s remarkable marine life.

Booking and Reservations

To book the Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise, guests can contact the tour operator directly through their website or by phone. The operator offers a range of booking options, allowing travelers to secure their spot on the excursion in advance.

Some of the available booking options include:

• Online booking through the operator’s website

• Calling the operator’s customer service number to make a reservation

• Booking through a third-party travel agency or website

• Purchasing tickets on the day of the tour, subject to availability

Guests are encouraged to book early, as the small group size of the tour and its popularity may lead to limited availability, especially during peak seasons.

The operator provides clear instructions and policies on their website to ensure a seamless booking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There Any Risk of Seasickness During the Cruise?

The fast powerboat ride may pose a moderate risk of seasickness, especially for those prone to motion sickness. However, the tour provides life jackets and in-water assistance to help manage this. Passengers should come prepared with any necessary seasickness medication or remedies.

Can We Bring Our Own Snorkeling Equipment?

Travelers can bring their own snorkeling equipment if they prefer. However, the tour provides high-quality snorkel gear and flotation devices, along with in-water assistance, so using the provided equipment is recommended for safety and convenience.

Are There Any Options for Vegetarian/Vegan Lunches?

The company offers vegetarian and vegan lunch options for guests with dietary restrictions. Travelers should indicate any special dietary needs when booking the tour to ensure the appropriate meal is provided during the snorkel cruise.

Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Children?

Children are welcome on the tour, but they must be accompanied by an adult. There is no age limit, though infants must sit on an adult’s lap. The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Can We Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Unfortunately, the tour duration cannot be extended. The standard tour length is fixed and non-negotiable. However, guests can inquire about adding additional activities or excursions before or after the main tour to enhance their experience.

Recap

The Kawaihae Luxury Snorkel Cruise & Wildlife Watch with Lunch provides an unforgettable opportunity to explore Hawaii’s stunning marine life.

Guests can enjoy the crystal-clear waters, encountering dolphins, turtles, and seasonal whales, while enjoying a picnic lunch onboard.

This enriching experience combines relaxation, education, and breathtaking scenery, making it a perfect day out for families and nature enthusiasts.