Wake Up With the Whales Cruise

The Wake Up With the Whales Cruise along the Kohala Coast offers travelers a unique opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales up close. Departing from the Kawaihae Harbor, this captivating excursion aboard a comfortable catamaran allows guests to observe the whales’ behavior and listen to their songs through hydrophones. With an expert naturalist on board to provide insightful commentary, the cruise promises a memorable and educational experience. Whether you’re a seasoned whale enthusiast or a first-time observer, this cruise could be the perfect way to learn about the wonders of the marine world.

Key Points

• Captivating whale watching excursion along the Kohala Coast, offering the chance to observe majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.
• Comfortable and stable catamaran with onboard naturalist providing expert commentary and the opportunity to listen to whales’ songs via hydrophones.
• Variety of light refreshments, beers, wines, and soft drinks available to enhance the overall cruise experience.
• Convenient departure from Anaehoomalu Beach with seamless check-in and accessibility for travelers of all abilities.
• Guaranteed whale sightings with a free return option, ensuring a memorable and immersive encounter with these magnificent marine creatures.

Overview of the Cruise

The Wake Up With the Whales Cruise provides passengers with the opportunity to embark on a captivating journey in search of the majestic humpback whales that migrate through the waters off the Kohala Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island.

Aboard a comfortable and stable catamaran, guests will cruise along the scenic coastline while an onboard naturalist provides expert commentary on the whales’ behavior and habitat. Passengers can listen to the whales’ songs through underwater hydrophones and enjoy light refreshments, beers, wines, and soft drinks throughout the excursion.

The cruise guarantees sightings of humpback whales, and if none are seen, guests can take the tour again for free. This unforgettable experience allows travelers to enjoy the wonders of Hawaii’s marine life.

Whale Watching Experience

Passengers embark on a captivating journey in search of the majestic humpback whales that migrate through the waters off the Kohala Coast, with an onboard naturalist providing expert commentary on the whales’ behavior and habitat.

As the comfortable and stable catamaran cruises along, passengers have the opportunity to listen to the whales’ enchanting songs through underwater hydrophones. They’ll marvel at the whales’ powerful movements and graceful breaches, capturing awe-inspiring moments on camera.

The cruise guarantees sightings, so if a whale isn’t spotted, guests can return for another excursion at no additional cost. With refreshments and a welcoming atmosphere, this whale watching experience offers an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent marine creatures.

Onboard Catamaran and Amenities

A comfortable and stable catamaran carries guests along the Kohala Coast, offering a smooth sailing experience. Onboard, an expert naturalist provides live commentary, sharing insights about the whales and their annual migration. Travelers can enjoy a selection of light refreshments, beers, wines, and soft drinks as they keep their eyes peeled for breaching humpbacks.

The catamaran’s design ensures a stable and comfortable ride, allowing guests to focus on spotting whales without being distracted by rough waters.

The onboard amenities, including drinks and snacks, enhance the overall experience, making it easy for guests to relax and enjoy the natural wonders around them.

The expert naturalist’s commentary adds depth to the experience, providing valuable information that helps guests better understand the whales and their behavior.

Expert Naturalist Commentary

An onboard naturalist enhances the whale watching experience with insightful commentary, sharing expert knowledge about the humpbacks and their annual migration through the waters off Hawaii’s Kohala Coast.

As the catamaran cruises along, the naturalist points out the whales’ behaviors and characteristics, from their massive size and powerful blows to their acrobatic breaching and mysterious songs.

Guests gain a deeper appreciation for these majestic creatures, learning about their biology, social dynamics, and the challenges they face during their long journeys.

The naturalist’s expertise brings the whales’ world to life, creating a more immersive and educational experience for everyone on board.

Underwater Hydrophone Listening

One of the highlights of the Wake Up With the Whales Cruise is the opportunity to listen to the whales’ mystifying songs through underwater hydrophones.

As the catamaran glides across the waters, guests can don provided headphones and hear the captivating, multi-octave vocalizations of the humpbacks, offering a unique window into their complex communication and social behavior.

The whale songs, which can be heard for miles, are believed to serve various purposes, such as:

• Attracting mates
• Maintaining contact with other whales
• Asserting social status within the pod

This chance to eavesdrop on the whales’ underwater world is a truly memorable and insightful experience for all participants.

Refreshment and Beverage Offerings

During the cruise, guests can enjoy a selection of light refreshments, including beers, wines, and soft drinks, all of which are included in the tour price. The onboard refreshments are designed to keep travelers hydrated and satisfied throughout the excursion.

Whether you prefer a crisp beer, a glass of wine, or a refreshing soda, you’ll have plenty of options to quench your thirst. The cruise also provides snacks to fuel your whale-watching adventure.

With these complimentary refreshments, you can focus on spotting the majestic humpback whales without worrying about bringing your own drinks and snacks. It’s a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty of Hawaii’s waters.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The Wake Up With the Whales Cruise departs from Anaehoomalu Beach, where guests check in at the Ocean Sports Beach Hut at Anaehoomalu Bay to begin their whale-watching adventure.

The cruise ends back at the same meeting point, providing a convenient and seamless experience.

Guests have the opportunity to explore the beautiful Kohala Coast as they search for humpback whales on their annual migration.

The meeting point is easily accessible, allowing for a stress-free start to the excursion.

The return to the original location simplifies the end of the trip, ensuring a smooth conclusion.

The convenient meeting and pickup details prioritize your’ experience, making the whale-watching cruise a hassle-free and enjoyable activity.

Policies and Accessibility

The cruise’s policies ensure a seamless and inclusive experience, accommodating a wide range of guests with various needs.

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and children must be accompanied by an adult. The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.

Infant seats are available, making it suitable for families. Guests with no heart problems or other serious medical conditions are welcome to participate.

The cruise aims to be inclusive, catering to travelers of all abilities and ensuring everyone can enjoy the whale-watching experience. These policies reflect the cruise’s commitment to providing a safe and accessible adventure for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Based on the information provided, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The cruise includes light refreshments, beers, wines, and soft drinks, but guests are welcome to bring additional items if desired.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

The cruise does not have a stated minimum age requirement for children. However, infants and young children should be accompanied by an adult, as the tour’s suitability may depend on the child’s age and ability to participate safely.

What Happens if the Weather Is Poor on the Scheduled Day?

If the weather is poor on the scheduled day, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled. Customers are usually notified of any changes and can reschedule or receive a refund if the tour can’t be completed.

Can I Take Pictures or Videos During the Cruise?

Guests are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the cruise. The cruise operator encourages capturing the whales and scenery, though they advise guests to be respectful and not disturb the wildlife. Specific guidelines may be provided on the day of the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Cruise?

Yes, there’s typically an option to extend the cruise duration. Customers can often choose to upgrade to a longer excursion, such as a 2-hour tour instead of the standard 1-hour trip, for an additional fee.

Recap

The Wake Up With the Whales Cruise provides an immersive and educational whale watching experience along the Kohala Coast. Travelers aboard a comfortable catamaran can observe majestic humpback whales, listen to their songs through hydrophones, and enjoy light refreshments, all while learning from an expert naturalist.

With guaranteed whale sightings and a free return option, this is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting the Big Island.