Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour - 4 hour Kona Zodiac Adventure

Highlights

Zodiac tour includes snorkel equipment and flotation devices
Skim across the waves and look for spinner dolphins and sea caves
View the Captain Cook Monument in the State Historical Park

Summary

Teeming with vibrant marine life, the protected waters of Kealakekua Bay off the Kona coast make for an ideal snorkeling destination. Begin your adventure at Honokohau Marina just north of Kailua-Kona, where you’ll meet your captain and climb aboard a 24-foot (7-meter) inflatable Zodiac raft — an agile, rigid-hull vessel used by the US Coast Guard and Navy SEALs. As you cruise south along the beautiful Kona coastline, learn about the island’s fascinating history as your guide shares local facts and legends. See the Captain Cook monument, where the first European made contact with Hawaii, and keep an eye out for local marine life including spinner dolphins and humpback whales (during winter). Explore the Big Island’s volcanic history as your raft darts in and out of sea caves and past rocky lava tubes. Slip on a provided snorkeling mask and fins and plunge into the warm, clear water to swim among schools of electric-colored fish and intricate coral gardens. After approximately 1.5 hours of snorkeling, climb back aboard the raft and refuel with a fresh Hawaiian snack and beverages (or picnic-style lunch on the 10 am departure). Continue along the spectacular coastline back to the marina, where your 4- to 5-hour adventure concludes. Please note: Due to the bumpy nature of the raft ride, this tour is not recommended for those with back or neck problems, or pregnant women.

Tour info

Duration

4 hours

Why take this tour?

This Zodiac tour of Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve includes the opportunity to snorkel among the coral gardens. You’ll easily see tropical fish and other marine life in the crystal-clear waters, with a guide to lead the way. Beat the crowds with a midday rafting excursion that includes a picnic of deli sandwiches, Hawaiian fruits, juice, and more.

What’s included?

Rafting expedition
Use of snorkel equipment including masks and flotation devices
Potato chips, cookies, water & soft drinks. Offered on the 8:00 AM & 12:45 PM tour
Gratuities
Hotel pick up and drop off

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 4h
Mobile tickets accepted
Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions

About operator:

Captain Zodiac has entertained guests for over 45 years on our exciting 24-foot Zodiac rafts. Winner of Trip advisor Certificate of Excellence since 2011. Book our unique tours or a Private Chater and design your own adventure. Explore the rugged coastline up close to see exposed lava tubes, blowholes and archways. Snorkel in the crystal clear waters of Kealakekua Bay Marine preserve viewing over 150 varieties of fish. Our naturalist guides keep a sharp eye out for pods of dolphins, whales and other marine mammals that call Hawaii home. The Zodiac ride is fast, fun and educational! You will hear about the Hawaiian history of the area, learn about marine life behaviors and the island’s geology.