Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure in Kona Waikoloa. From December to April, travelers can witness the majestic North Pacific humpback whales up close on an intimate tour with a maximum of 17 guests. Boasting breathtaking coastal views and complimentary refreshments, this tour guarantees sightings or offers a free return trip – making it a truly remarkable experience. With knowledgeable staff to guide you, prepare to be amazed by the incredible behaviors of these gentle giants.

Key Points

Whale Watching Tour: Whales Guaranteed in Kona Waikoloa - Key Points

  • Guaranteed sightings of humpback whales and their calves during peak migration season from December to April in Kona, Hawaii.
  • Free return on tours if no whales are spotted, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Small group size of up to 17 travelers for an intimate whale watching experience along the Kona-Kohala coastline.
  • Convenient meeting point at A-Bay Beach Park and departure from Anaehoomalu Bay, Waikoloa Beach Resort.
  • Flexible pricing options, including family packages and discounts for seniors and military/students, with a free cancellation policy.

Location and Season

Whale Watching Tour: Whales Guaranteed in Kona Waikoloa - Location and Season

The whale watching tour takes place on the Big Island of Hawaii, USA, which is a prime location for spotting North Pacific humpback whales during their annual migration.

The tour operates from December to April, corresponding with the whales’ northbound journey. Guests are virtually guaranteed to see these majestic marine mammals and their calves as they breach, spout, and engage in other awe-inspiring behaviors along the Kona-Kohala coastline.

Departure times are scheduled throughout the day, providing flexibility for travelers to choose the most convenient option.

Tour Highlights

Whale Watching Tour: Whales Guaranteed in Kona Waikoloa - Tour Highlights

Guests aboard the whale watching tour can expect a range of exciting features.

Sightings of magnificent humpback whales and their calves are guaranteed. Should no whales be spotted, guests can return free of charge.

The tour showcases the Kona-Kohala coastline’s breathtaking views. Multiple departure times are available throughout the day, providing flexibility.

With a maximum of 17 travelers per tour, the experience offers an intimate, personalized adventure.

From bottled water and refreshments to exceptional staff knowledge, the tour aims to deliver a memorable whale watching excursion.

Meeting and Departure Details

To begin the tour, guests are instructed to use GPS to find the parking lot at A-Bay Beach Park, then walk towards the check-in banner near the coconut trees.

The meeting point is located at 69-1081 Kuualii Pl, Waikoloa Village, HI 96738, USA. From there, the tour departs from Anaehoomalu Bay, Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Guests will need to follow the directions and look for the check-in banner to begin their whale watching adventure.

With multiple departure times available throughout the day, travelers have the flexibility to choose a time that suits their schedule.

Inclusions and Additional Information

The tour package includes bottled water, soda, and juice. Gratuity is suggested for the crew. Confirmation is received at the time of booking. This tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and the maximum number of travelers per tour is 17.

Additional Information
Wheelchair Accessibility Not accessible
Service Animals Allowed
Infant Seating Must sit on laps
Maximum Travelers 17 per tour

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Whale Watching Tour: Whales Guaranteed in Kona Waikoloa - Customer Reviews and Feedback

Based on 93 reviews, the whale watching tour in Kona Waikoloa has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5.

Guests praise the knowledgeable and friendly staff, as well as the excellent whale sightings and memorable experiences. They also appreciate the smooth boat ride and complimentary refreshments.

However, some visitors report encountering rough waters and inadequate whale sightings. There are also mixed experiences with the boat types and crowding.

Pricing and Booking Options

The whale watching tour in Kona Waikoloa starts from $116.32 per person. Booking options include reserving now and paying later, ensuring the lowest price guarantee. To view the full pricing details, check out the table below:

Pricing Options Price per Person
Adult Ticket $116.32
Child Ticket $93.06
Family Package $418.75
Senior Discount $104.69
Military/Student $110.50

Guests can book the tour conveniently online and take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.

Whale Sighting Guarantee

Whale Watching Tour: Whales Guaranteed in Kona Waikoloa - Whale Sighting Guarantee

What sets this whale watching tour apart is the whale sighting guarantee. If no whales are spotted during the excursion, guests can return free of charge on a future tour. This promise ensures that visitors have the best chance of encountering these majestic marine giants:

  • Humpback whales are regularly sighted during their annual migration, from December to April.

  • Calves and their mothers are often spotted, providing heartwarming moments.

  • Multiple departure times throughout the day mean flexibility to find the ideal viewing conditions.

  • A team of experienced, knowledgeable guides enhance the overall experience.

Kona-Kohala Coastal Views

Along With the thrilling whale sightings, the Kona-Kohala coastal views offer a breathtaking backdrop for the whale watching excursion.

As the boat glides along the Pacific, guests are treated to a panoramic vista of rugged volcanic cliffs, pristine white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

The lush, verdant landscape is punctuated by towering palm trees and ancient lava flows, creating a dramatic natural setting.

This picturesque coastline is nothing short of mesmerizing, complementing the awe-inspiring experience of witnessing the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks, though bottled water, soda, and juice are provided. Guests can enjoy their personal snacks and refreshments during the whale watching experience.

How Do I Identify Different Whale Species?

To identify different whale species, guests can look for distinct physical features like the humpback whale’s long white fins and the gray whale’s mottled skin and lack of a dorsal fin. Experienced guides can also point out unique behaviors.

What Should I Wear to Stay Comfortable on the Boat?

Dress in layers and wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. Bring a light jacket or windbreaker to stay warm on the boat. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended to protect against the sun’s glare and Hawaii’s bright rays.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no specific restrictions on photography during the tour. Guests are encouraged to take photos of the whales and scenery, but should be mindful of not disturbing the wildlife or other passengers.

How Reliable Is the Whale Sighting Guarantee?

The whale sighting guarantee is highly reliable, with the tour provider offering a free return trip if no whales are spotted. Guests overwhelmingly report excellent whale sightings, though some experience mixed results due to factors like weather conditions.

Recap

The Whale Watching Tour in Kona Waikoloa offers a thrilling and guaranteed whale-watching experience from December to April. With breathtaking coastal views, knowledgeable staff, and complimentary refreshments, this intimate tour ensures a memorable adventure. And if no whales are spotted, travelers can enjoy a free return trip, making it a truly unforgettable experience.