Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour
Departs from Kailua-Kona at 10am
We cruise along the beautiful and rugged Kona coastline to one of the best snorkeling destinations in all of Hawaii – Captain Cook Monument in historic Kealakekua Bay.
This bay boasts the best snorkeling of all the islands, due to its protection from ocean swells, 80 degree warm waters, 100’ visibility waters and a beautiful coral reef and myriads of colorful tropical fish. Kealakekua Bay is also a spinner dolphin habitat where these playful residents are seen on over half our excursions. We also see spinner dolphins where we exit either Honokohau or Keauhou harbors. Giant green sea turtles are seen while at dock preparing to get underway. We will also look for flying fish and Humpback whales (December to March) as we cruise the Kona coast.
Cruising the Kona coast:
You will enjoy riding in one of our RHIB or Catamaran vessels that has space for bringing a small towel and bag. These fast moving boats are 25-35′ and you will feel the excitement as the boat passes over the waves making for a fast and safe ride. We may spot Hawaiian spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales (Winter), flying fish or turtles on our cruise! It’s different every day and we’ll share with you our love of the Kona coast. Cruising along the flanks of Mauna Loa, we’ll also see lava tubes, sea caves and lava cliffs. Our cruise also passes Hulihee Palace, the Holua Sled at Keauhou, and the End of the World Cliff Jumping site. The scenery is remarkable and the ocean always has a way of impressing us.
After the exciting boat ride to the bay, you will enter the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay for snorkeling in 80 degree warm and clear ocean water. You’ll love swimming above coral reefs and tropical fish in an underwater world with 100′ visibility! It’s like swimming in an aquarium!!
You will appreciate our quality snorkel gear (mask, snorkel and fins), and having available infant, child or adult lifejackets. Pool noodles are available to relax while drifting over coral gardens and tropical fish below. An introduction to snorkeling safety and snorkeling tips will be reviewed with guests prior to entering the water. Those new to snorkeling can request crew to review snorkeling basics too. For those electing not to snorkel, the vistas from the boat of the bay are spectacular! Surrounding the bay are 600′-1000′ shear cliffs, cobalt blue and emerald green water, sea caves, lava tubes and beautiful white tailed tropic birds floating near the cliff edges – so be sure to bring your camera or phone for capturing the sights.
Snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument:
You’ll snorkel an hour+ near Captain Cook Monument, one of Hawaii’s very best snorkeling spots. Experience fascinating sea life including:
- Myriads of colorful Tropical fish
- Vibrant Coral reef and amazing underwater terrain
- Hawaiian spinner dolphins and bottlenose dolphins
- Green Sea Turtles
- Humpback whales (seasonal)
- Manta Ray and Eagle Rays
Also, see where the famous explorer Captain James Cook of the English Royal Navy first arrived in Hawaii. Visit the site of historic Ka`awaloa village and home to Hawaiian Royalty.
No snorkeling Experience Necessary – Beginning snorkelers and Children are welcome. Flotation provided includes buoyant pool noodles and if requested, swim lifejackets or waist floats. Trips depart at 10am for a 3.5 hour excursion.
Whats included:
What’s not included:
You should bring small towels, long sleeve t-shirt or sunblock, a hat and sunglasses.
Itinerary
- Night before the cruise – check your email/texts for meeting location updates and directions. Trips all leave from Kailua- Kona, but from different harbors within town. We’ll keep you informed where to meet us.
- Arrive 30 minutes prior to departure time: Use nearby public restrooms prior to departure. Meet the captain and crew and check-in for your trip.
- Board vessel for captains orientation and depart at 10am for coastal cruise and snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument.
- Arrive at beautiful and historic 1.5 mile wide Kealakekua Bay for snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument. Dolphin watching occurs in the bay on 50% of our trips. See dramatic 1000’ cliffs and emerald green coral gardens.
- Return to boat for drinks, snacks and warming up in the warm 85 degree Kona sun.
- Pack up the gear, pull up the ladder and say goodbye to
Kealakekua Bay for the day. Return to dock.
Featured Highlights
This adventure includes a fast boat ride passing dramatic Mauna Loa Mountain, lava cliffs, sea caves, lava tubes, beautiful green and cobalt blue ocean waters. Sightings of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, flying fish, humpback whales, manta rays and giant sea turtles. Snorkeling in warm, 100’ visibility, emerald green ocean water above coral gardens and myriads of colorful tropical fish. Finally, see where the famous and first western explorer – James Cook first arrived in Hawaii. You will travel close to the site of historic Ka`awaloa village and the home of Hawaiian Royalty.
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