Ultimate Ocean Encounters Midday Snorkel

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii and love being in the water, the Ultimate Ocean Encounters Midday Snorkel could be just what you’re after. We’ve looked into this tour based on detailed reviews and the info available — and it seems to offer a pretty solid experience for those wanting to get a taste of Kona’s marine life without spending a full day on the water.

What we particularly appreciate is how this tour combines two different snorkeling spots along the Kona coast, giving you variety and a good chance to see a wide array of sea creatures. Plus, setting sail around midday means you’re skipping the early rush and likely enjoying calmer waters and better light for underwater viewing. The chance to see dolphins, turtles, and maybe even whales makes it especially appealing for those craving memorable wildlife encounters. That said, a key thing to keep in mind is the minimum number of guests needed to run the tour — if it doesn’t meet that, it might get canceled, which is worth considering when planning your dates.

This tour will probably suit travelers who appreciate friendly guides, a relaxed vibe, and good value for the price. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a half-day adventure that’s straightforward, with all the gear and instruction included, and a boat that’s not overcrowded. Keep reading for all the details — we’ll help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Hawaiian getaway.

Key Points

• Marine life sightings are a highlight, especially turtles and dolphins.
• The midday schedule means fewer crowds and better weather conditions.
• The tour includes two snorkel stops, offering variety.
• With guided instruction and gear included, it’s accessible even if you’re not a seasoned snorkeler.
• The group size caps at 30, keeping things intimate.
• The price is competitive, providing good value for the experience.

An Overview of the Experience

The Ultimate Ocean Encounters Midday Snorkel on the Big Island is a three-hour trip designed to showcase the island’s vibrant marine environment. For around $80 per person, you get a chance to explore two different spots along the Kona coast, known for its clear waters, coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. This tour is operated by Bite Me Sportfishing, a name that seems to be well-regarded for friendly, knowledgeable guides and good service.

What makes this tour appealing is its focus on wildlife sightings. From dolphins swimming close to the boat to sea turtles and schools of tropical fish, it’s crafted to maximize your chances of those memorable moments. The fact that the tour departs at midday, rather than morning or late afternoon, offers a different perspective — often calmer waters and a different light angle which can make your photos pop.

With the tour being mobile ticketed, the process is straightforward, and check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure at the Bite Me Sportfishing office in Kailua-Kona. This gives you time to settle in, maybe browse some Gear or ask the crew questions before heading out. The boat itself is described as in good condition, and the smaller group size (up to 30 travelers) ensures a more personal experience, which many reviews praise.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

The tour kicks off with check-in at the Bite Me Sportfishing store, about half an hour before the 1:00 pm departure. Once on board, you’ll set sail along the Kona coast, aiming for two different snorkel spots. The first location, called Bite Me Sportfishing, serves as the starting point — and from there, it’s all about exploring the underwater landscape.

While specific details about each stop aren’t exhaustively listed, reviews paint a vivid picture. Many snorkelers report seeing turtles at each spot and spotting a variety of fish and even octopuses. One guide, Shawn, was praised for finding a cool octopus and handling marine creatures gently, which is a good sign that wildlife is respected. The crew is noted as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to point out wildlife — whether it’s dolphins swimming close to the boat or a starfish on the reef.

The midday timing is especially advantageous because ocean conditions tend to be calmer, and marine activity is often at its peak. Plus, most reviews mention dolphin sightings during the boat ride, sometimes very close — a real treat for wildlife lovers. The guides’ ability to spot and highlight these animals enhances the experience significantly.

What to Expect During Snorkeling

Once at each snorkeling stop, the crew will assist with gear and give instructions, making it accessible whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. Many reviewers note the guides’ helpfulness, especially when helping those with concerns or nerves about the water. For example, one review mentions a guide spending time with a nervous child, turning what could be an anxious experience into a joyful one.

The water clarity and marine life are generally described as excellent (though, as with any in the ocean, conditions can vary). Expect to see sea turtles, schools of colorful fish, starfish, and even octopuses. Some lucky snorkelers have been able to touch sea creatures, like a whale shark or a pufferfish — though this isn’t guaranteed, it’s a possibility worth noting.

Snorkeling gear is provided, and guides are attentive about safety. Since the tour is rated as suitable for most travelers who know how to swim, it’s a good choice for those comfortable in the water. The boat’s capacity helps prevent overcrowding, keeping it a friendly environment.

Wildlife Encounters and Highlights

One of the biggest draws of this tour is the chance to see dolphins and turtles up close. Many reviews highlight dolphin sightings during navigation, sometimes with adorable baby dolphins. Sea turtles are also frequently spotted at the snorkel sites, providing memorable moments.

A review from a family mentions their 7-year-old daughter feeling nervous initially but eventually having the time of her life thanks to patient guides. Another reviewer was thrilled by the sighting of a baby dolphin, emphasizing how wildlife encounters can be a highlight here.

Guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to find wildlife, with some even diving to take footage of reef sharks. The boat ride itself offers stunning views of the coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photos of the ocean, dolphins, and the reef below.

Pricing and Value

At $80 per person, this tour provides a fair deal for a 3-hour adventure filled with wildlife sightings, guided instruction, and all gear included. Compared to longer or more elaborate trips, it’s compact but packed with highlights.

Guests often comment on the good value, especially considering the friendly crew, the chance to see dolphins and turtles, and the flexibility of two snorkeling stops. The smaller group size (up to 30 people) means you’re not just another face in a crowd; you get more personalized attention and better chances to spot animals.

It’s worth noting that tours can be canceled if minimum numbers aren’t met, so booking in advance (most guests book about a month out) is advised to secure your spot.

Customer Experiences: What People Are Saying

The reviews are largely positive, especially about guides and wildlife sightings. Many travelers remark on how friendly and helpful the crew is, often going above and beyond to make sure everyone has a good time. For example, one review describes guides who spent extra time with a nervous child, transforming her day into one she’ll never forget.

Wildlife sightings get rave reviews. One traveler said, “We saw a 35-foot whale shark, and the crew was the best at making sure we were happy.” Another noted, “We saw dolphins very close up, even some babies with pink bellies!” These moments are what make this tour stand out.

However, not all reviews are perfect. One reviewer expressed disappointment at seeing coral being handled disrespectfully and gear cleaned with chemicals, highlighting the importance of choosing responsible operators.

The tour’s midday timing and the slightly smaller boat size** often result in smoother, more enjoyable experiences compared to larger, more crowded excursions.

Considerations and Downsides

While the tour generally receives positive feedback, there are a few points to keep in mind. First, the cancellation policy states you need to cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If weather conditions are poor, the trip might be canceled or rescheduled, which can be inconvenient.

Since the tour operates on a minimum number of guests, if not enough people book, it could get canceled at the last minute — though the company does try to offer alternatives. Also, some reviews mention encountering less respectful behavior from fellow guests, which can impact the overall experience.

Lastly, the water conditions and visibility can vary, so if you’re seeking guaranteed underwater close-ups, you might find this tour offers more of a general overview rather than an intense reef exploration.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves the idea of seeing dolphins, turtles, and tropical fish in their natural habitat, this tour offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters and relaxing boat time. Its affordable price point combined with friendly guides makes it a solid choice for travelers wanting a family-friendly, no-fuss experience.

It’s especially suitable if you prefer midday trips that avoid the early morning rush and enjoy calmer waters. The small group size means fewer crowds and more intimate wildlife sightings, which many reviews seem to appreciate.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for guaranteed wildlife sightings or a more exclusive, luxury style experience, this might not be the best fit. Weather-dependent cancellations and the possibility of encountering less respectful fellow guests are factors to consider.

In all, this snorkel tour strikes a good balance for those wanting to experience the marine beauty of Kona without overdoing it or breaking the bank. It’s perfect for travelers who value friendly guides, wildlife spontaneity, and a relaxed vibe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 3 hours, including the time for check-in and the boat ride.

What is the price?
$80 per person, which includes snorkeling gear and instruction, making it good value for a wildlife-packed half-day.

Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes, participants should know how to swim to participate safely.

What is the meeting point?
Check in is at 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, about 30 minutes before departure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What might I see?
Expect to see dolphins, sea turtles, tropical fish, starfish, and perhaps an octopus or a whale shark, depending on luck and conditions.

Is the boat crowded?
No, the maximum group size is 30 travelers, which helps keep it intimate and manageable.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, sun protection, and possibly a waterproof camera. Snacks and drinks are provided on board.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed, wildlife-focused snorkeling trip along Kona’s gorgeous coast, this tour shows promise. It’s a good choice for travelers seeking a friendly, reasonably priced adventure with plenty of opportunities for those unforgettable Hawaii marine moments.