Big Island Evening Snorkeling with Manta Rays Near Kailua-Kona
by Iruka Hawaii Dolphin
Overview
This tour focuses on the natural behavior of Giant Oceanic Manta Rays near Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. The outing lasts about two hours and takes place at sunset. Participants cruise by boat to the main snorkeling site known for manta ray activity. After arriving at the snorkeling spot, guests swim with the manta rays using provided snorkeling gear. Once the snorkeling session is complete, the boat returns to the harbor while passengers can relax and enjoy hot cocoa. The tour includes use of snorkeling equipment, air conditioning on the vehicle to and from the harbor, and complimentary GoPro photos taken by the crew. Wet suits are not included but can be rented on board for a fee. Pick-up service is available for select hotels at an additional cost. Guests driving themselves should plan to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
What's included
What's not included
Itinerary
Manta Ray Snorkel Site
The tour begins with a cruise to the manta ray area, where guests may spot marine animals such as dolphins and, during the November to March whale season, humpback whales. Upon arrival, participants swim to a large floating light raft and hold on throughout the snorkel. The underwater lights on the raft attract plankton, which mantas feed on, causing them to swim close underneath. Guests remain on the raft without free diving, and crew members assist and ensure comfort. If a guest returns to the boat during the snorkel, they remain onboard for the rest of the excursion. After snorkeling, guests are offered a light snack along with tea and hot cocoa while cruising back under the stars. BYOB is permitted after swimming, but glass bottles are prohibited. Those susceptible to motion sickness should take medication one hour before departure. If no manta rays appear, guests may join another tour night free of charge. Private manta ray charters are available.
120 min
Meeting point
Iruka Hawaii Dolphin & Manta Tours Slip A-17 Honokohau Small Boat Harbor 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy Kailua-Kona HI 96740 USA Please meet us at the Iruka Hawaii booth located at Slip A-17 at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor for check-in.
End point
Iruka Hawaii Dolphin & Manta Tours Slip A-17 Honokohau Small Boat Harbor 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy Kailua-Kona HI 96740 USA Please meet us at the Iruka Hawaii booth located at Slip A-17 at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor for check-in. Check-in starts 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time.
Languages
Cancellation policy
- Cancel at least 24 hours before start for a full refund.
Additional info
More things to do in Big Island of Hawaii
- Big Island of Hawaii Volcano Adventure: Hilo Sightseeing with Optional Helicopter Tour
- Big Island of Hawaii Hands-On Hawaiian Imu Cooking and Cultural Dining Experience
- Kona Coast Catamaran Sunset Sail on the Spirit of Aloha
- Big Island Hawaii Admission to Voyagers of the Pacific Luau with Dinner
- Small-Group Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay in Captain Cook, Big Island
- Night Snorkeling with Manta Rays on the South Kona Coast