Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Adventure! Small Group

If you’re dreaming of truly unique underwater moments, the Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Adventure could be just what you’re after. This tour promises a chance to float alongside some of Hawaii’s most graceful marine creatures—manta rays—at night, on a small, intimate group excursion. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a memorable, close-up experience with minimal crowds.

What we love about this tour is its small group size—only up to 17 people, which means more personal attention and a relaxed vibe. Also, the speedboat ride adds a thrill to the journey, giving you a taste of adventure from the start. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the bumpy ride back after snorkeling, which might not suit everyone, especially if you’re sensitive to motion or cold.

This experience is great for those who enjoy marine life, are comfortable in the water, and crave a thrilling yet safe adventure. If you’re a confident swimmer, keen to see manta rays close-up, and don’t mind a slightly chilly, dark night out on the water, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group size ensures plenty of personalized guidance.
• Fast and Fun Ride: The speedboat adds a splash of excitement to the trip.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious staff enhance the experience.
• Unforgettable Encounters: Close-up views of manta rays swimming inches away.
• Comfort Included: Snorkeling gear and wetsuits provided, making it easy to participate.
• Weather & Cancellation: Fully refundable if canceled due to poor weather or minimum numbers not met.

What to Expect on the Tour

Starting at a convenient location in Kailua-Kona, you’ll arrive at the tour office about an hour before departure for check-in. This allows time to get fitted with wetsuits and gear—essential for staying warm during the float. The tour itself lasts about 1 to 2 hours, including preparation, boat ride, snorkeling, and return.

The Itinerary: Breaking Down Each Step

Stop 1: Keauhou – The starting point involves a quick 40-minute check-in and gear setup. This is where your guides will give the safety briefing and explain what to expect. They’re known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and full of interesting facts, which amps up your confidence before heading out.

Boat Ride – The highlight here is the speedy Zodiac boat ride along the Kona Coast. It’s lively, fast-paced, and adds an element of adventure. As one reviewer put it, “The boat was fast and thrilling,” which helps set the tone for the night. The ride can be a bit splashy and dark, but most find it fun and invigorating. Just be prepared for the cold and bumps on the way back; it’s part of the adventure, not a flaw.

Snorkeling at the Site – Once you reach the designated underwater spot, guides will station themselves with underwater lights and plankton attractants. This is what draws the manta rays—these gentle giants are naturally curious and often swim close to floaters with lights. Guests float on a custom light board for about 20-30 minutes, with the lights attracting plankton and the rays scooping them up.

Close Encounters – Many reviews talk about how close they got to the manta rays—some within inches. “Rays were only inches from us. We could see into their eyes,” shared one guest. Guides keep safety as a priority, and with full CPR and lifeguard certification, they create a secure environment.

Post-Snorkel – After admiring the rays, you’ll head back on the boat, riding the waves and soaking in the night sky. Most find this part exhilarating, although others mention the ride back can be cold and bumpy, so packing a warm layer is advisable.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are snorkel masks, snorkels, and wetsuits—a smart inclusion, considering the night air and water temperature. You won’t need to bring your own gear unless you prefer something specific. However, transportation to and from the harbor isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride there.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who are confident swimmers and comfortable in the water. Basic swimming skills are necessary, and being able to climb a boat ladder independently is mandatory. It’s also suited to those who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and don’t mind being out after dark.

While it’s not explicitly family-focused, older children or teenagers who are good swimmers and comfortable in water could find it a memorable adventure. Keep in mind, prescription masks aren’t available, so those with specific vision needs should plan accordingly.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

The reviews give a clear picture of what to expect. Many are glowing: “The crew was a lot of fun and very friendly,” says Casey_P, highlighting the lively atmosphere and beautiful bay scenery. Daniel_C appreciated the quick resolution of booking issues, which shows how committed the operators are to a smooth experience.

The highlights are often the close encounters with manta rays—”having the ray come inches from our faces,” one guest said. Others loved the speedboat thrill, describing how “the boat ride was awesome” and “loved the little jumps.”

Some reviews mention minor downsides, like rough rides back or initial miscommunications regarding meeting points, but most agree these are minor compared to the overall thrill and beauty of the experience.

Pricing at around $99 per person offers excellent value, considering the intimate setting, guided expertise, and the chance to see majestic marine life up close. It’s affordable for such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime type of experience.

Practical Tips for Your Night Snorkel

• Arrive early: Check-in an hour before departure to get suited up.
• Dress warmly: Even with wetsuits, it can get chilly floating in the water at night.
• Be comfortable swimming: You should have basic swimming skills to enjoy this safely.
• Prepare for the ride: The boat ride can be splashy, cold, and bumpy—bring a towel or warm layer for after.
• Stay safe: Follow all instructions from guides; they’re experienced and safety-conscious.
• Expect a flexible schedule: Tour durations are approximately 1-2 hours, but weather and group size can affect timing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
You need basic swimming skills to participate, as you’ll be floating and holding onto a light board. If you’re not comfortable in water, this might not be the best fit.

How long do we snorkel in the water?
Snorkeling time usually lasts about 20-30 minutes, giving you plenty of opportunity to see the manta rays up close.

Are wetsuits provided?
Yes, wetsuits are included, helping you stay warm during the floating experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Besides your swimsuit, it’s smart to bring a towel, a warm layer for the boat ride back, and possibly waterproof gloves if you tend to get cold easily.

How big are the groups?
The tour caps at 17 travelers, so you won’t be in a large crowd, making the experience more personal.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. Full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

What do I do if I have booking issues?
Most reviews indicate that the staff handle problems professionally, and the experience providers are responsive to inquiries.

Wrapping It Up

The Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Adventure offers a memorable night out on the water. With friendly guides, a fast boat ride, and the chance to see manta rays swirling inches from your face, it’s a strong choice for adventure lovers and marine life enthusiasts alike.

This tour is best suited for confident swimmers who want an intimate, personal experience rather than a large-group crowd. The inclusion of wetsuits, the guided safety measures, and the small group size make it accessible and enjoyable for those who appreciate a well-organized outing. However, be prepared for a somewhat bumpy trip back and remember that wild animals can never be guaranteed—nature keeps its surprises.

If you’re in Kona for the right kind of vibe—adventurous, curious, and eager to see a famous Hawaiian marine phenomenon—this night snorkel is likely to be a highlight of your trip. It’s a fun, safe, and truly special way to connect with Hawaii’s underwater world once the sun goes down.

Remember: Book early, dress warmly, and keep your eyes open for those graceful manta rays—an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.