Observe the gentle giants of the sea in their natural habitat as a whale expert educates and entertains you. Also keep an eye out for other types of whales, dolphins, and the diverse marine life that populate the clear waters off of the Kona Coast.
The spacious 2-story, 65' catamaran includes 3 restrooms, plenty of comfortable seating and shade, and snacks, island juice, sodas, Kona coffee, and tea, along with a full service cash bar. In the unlikely event no whales are seen, you can go again for free!
Please note this cruise only runs during whale season, from December to usually the end of March. For other months, please consider our dolphin watch cruise; although it also includes snorkeling/swimming, this is optional and adults can book the lower child price if not going in the water. During whale season, there is also usually whale watching on the dolphin & snorkel cruise if you want a longer boat trip with more activities & amenities but less focused on finding and observing whales.
WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS OPTION OVER OTHERS
Customer Rating:
5 out of 5 stars
Also rated on:
Big Island Revealed Guidebook:
Good boats, crew, and location make this a good deal, and we recommend it wholeheartedly.
Frommer's Guidebook:
Very Highly Recommended.
An adventurous cruise at a reasonable price.
The boat may proactively approach 100 yards from a whale, per federal law. However, the boat may then turn off the engine and the whale may get closer to the boat on its own, which is often the case.
Yes, there is a specialized boarding ramp that makes the boat 100% wheelchair accessible. If you require handicapped parking, there are two stalls located in the cul-de-sac in front of the Kailua Pier, but come early as they are used frequently. Please make a note at checkout if you are interested in reserved handicapped pier parking if you will have your handicapped placard.
The bigger the boat, the more stable it is. The vessel is 65′ in length with a 30′ beam and the largest boat of its kind on the Kona Coast. It’s a totally different experience than being on a smaller boat or a raft. If you know you are prone to sea sickness, it is recommended you take Bonine or Dramamine the night before and one several hours before your cruise. Please read directions to see that you are able to take this medication. It is also available onboard, but it is best to have it in your system prior to boarding. Also offered are complimentary Ginger pills and a Ginger drink which are great for motion sickness and are all natural. You are more likely to feel better on the lower deck of the vessel as there is less pitch. If you have a choice of days, you could consider the surf forecast.