Whale Watch Excursion From the Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii offers a remarkable opportunity for visitors to witness the awe-inspiring migration of majestic humpback whales. The Whale Watch Excursion, led by certified naturalists, provides an immersive experience that allows guests to listen to the whales’ powerful calls and gain insights into their captivating behavior. With a focus on a peaceful and personalized encounter, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure that goes beyond the typical whale watching experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique way to explore the island’s marine life, the Whale Watch Excursion may just be the perfect addition to your Big Island itinerary.

Key Points

• The whale watch excursion is located on the Big Island of Hawaii and offers visitors the opportunity to witness majestic humpback whales.
• Certified naturalist guides provide in-depth information and insights about the whales’ behavior during the tour.
• Guests can listen to the powerful whale calls through an onboard hydrophone, enhancing the overall experience.
• The tour includes snacks, light refreshments, and optional alcoholic drinks, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
• Guests must provide their own transportation to the meeting point, but free parking is available at the Kailua Kona Pier.

Overview of the Whale Watch Excursion

The Whale Watch Excursion from the Big Island is a popular tour that allows visitors to witness the majestic humpback whales migrating from the Pacific Northwest during their annual journey.

With 224 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to see the whales in their natural habitat. Guests can listen to the whales through a hydrophone and learn about their behavior patterns from a certified naturalist guide.

The tour also avoids the typical boat traffic associated with whale watching, providing a more peaceful and immersive experience. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, this excursion is a must-do activity for anyone looking to appreciate the beauty and wonder of these magnificent creatures.

Highlights of the Whale Watching Experience

Guests on the Whale Watch Excursion can witness the majestic humpback whales migrating from the Pacific Northwest, hearing their powerful calls through an onboard hydrophone.

Certified naturalist guides provide in-depth information about the whales’ behavior patterns, offering a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures.

On top of that, the tour avoids the typical boat traffic associated with whale watching, providing a more peaceful and immersive experience for participants.

Guests can also enjoy complimentary snacks and light refreshments, as well as the option to purchase alcoholic beverages, while taking in the breathtaking views of the Big Island’s coastline.

This one-of-a-kind excursion is a must-do activity for any visitor to the Big Island of Hawaii.

Inclusions in the Tour Package

The tour package includes live commentary from onboard professionals, who provide insights into the whales’ behavior and the surrounding environment. Guests can enjoy snacks and light refreshments, as well as non-alcoholic beverages, throughout the excursion. For those interested in adult libations, alcoholic drinks are available for purchase.

Inclusions	Details
Live Commentary	From certified naturalist guides
Snacks & Beverages	Light refreshments, non-alcoholic drinks
Alcoholic Drinks	Available for purchase

The tour also covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges, and free parking is provided at the Kailua Kona Pier, where the excursion departs.

Meeting Point and Boarding Information

Guests meet at the designated location of 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA, where all cruises board 30 minutes prior to departure. This ensures a smooth and timely start to the excursion.

Guests must provide their own transportation to the Kailua Kona Pier, as hotel pick-up isn’t available.

Upon arrival, guests will need to:

• Complete a liability waiver prior to boarding
• Ensure children are accompanied by an adult
• Note that the excursion can accommodate wheelchair users and service animals
• Be aware that the maximum group size is 110 travelers

With these details in mind, guests can look forward to an unforgettable whale watching experience from the Big Island.

Accessibility and Transportation Details

This whale watch excursion offers wheelchair accessibility, allowing guests with mobility challenges to fully participate in the experience. Service animals are also welcome on board. Transportation to the Kailua Kona Pier, the departure point, is not provided, so guests must make their own arrangements to reach the meeting location.

Accessibility	Transportation
Wheelchair accessible	Guests must provide own transportation
Service animals allowed	No hotel pickup available
Surfaces are wheelchair friendly	Meeting point: 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Children must be accompanied by an adult	All cruises board 30 minutes prior to departure

Additional Information for Guests

Upon booking this excursion, guests will receive confirmation immediately. A liability waiver must be completed by all participants prior to boarding the vessel.

Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard, though gratuities for the crew aren’t included in the tour price. With a maximum capacity of 110 travelers, the whale watch cruise offers an intimate and personalized experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are permitted.

The meeting point is located near public transportation. Hotel pick-up isn’t available, so guests must provide their own transportation to the Kailua Kona Pier.

Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the duration of the tour.

Exclusions From the Tour Package

While the whale watch excursion includes a range of amenities, there are certain exclusions that guests should be aware of.

Gratuities for the crew aren’t included in the tour price, and alcoholic drinks, though available for purchase onboard, are an additional expense. Plus, guests must provide their own transportation to the Kailua Kona Pier, as hotel pick-up isn’t available.

This allows the tour operator to keep the overall cost of the excursion more affordable. Despite these exclusions, the whale watch experience still offers excellent value, with a knowledgeable guide, comfortable boat, and the chance to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Booking and Confirmation Process

Booking the whale watch excursion is a straightforward process, with confirmation received at the time of reservation. Guests can secure their spots on the tour by visiting the company’s website or calling their customer service line. The confirmation details all the important information about the tour, including the meeting location, departure time, and what to expect during the experience.

Guests must complete a liability waiver prior to boarding the vessel.

The tour accommodates wheelchair users and allows service animals.

Complimentary parking is available at the meeting point.

Children must be accompanied by an adult throughout the excursion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Duration of the Whale Watching Tour?

The excursion’s duration is not explicitly stated in the knowledge provided. However, it is common for whale watching tours to last around 2-3 hours, allowing sufficient time to spot and observe the migrating humpback whales.

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

Guests can bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks on the tour. However, the tour provides light refreshments and beverages, including alcoholic drinks available for purchase. Bringing your own alcohol is not permitted.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot Whales?

The best time of year to spot whales is typically from December to April, when humpback whales migrate from the Pacific Northwest to Hawaii’s warm waters to mate and give birth. Sightings are most common during the peak season of January to March.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement, but children must be accompanied by an adult. There is no maximum age limit, making this excursion suitable for participants of all ages. However, the activity may not be appropriate for very young children.

Can I Cancel or Reschedule My Booking if Needed?

Guests can cancel or reschedule their booking as needed, though terms may vary. It’s best to review the cancellation and rescheduling policies provided at the time of booking to understand any potential fees or restrictions.

Recap

The Whale Watch Excursion from the Big Island offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, guests can enjoy the whales’ behavior and sounds, while enjoying a peaceful experience with complimentary refreshments.

With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the Big Island, providing a chance to connect with the wonders of Hawaii’s marine life.