Kalaoa: Big Island & Kona Midday Whale Watching Tour

Kalaoa: Big Island & Kona Midday Whale Watching Tour — An Honest Look

If you’re heading to Hawaii and want to get a closer look at its famous whales, this midday whale watching tour from Kalaoa is worth considering. We haven’t been on this exact trip ourselves, but we’ve checked out what travelers say and what the experience typically involves. It’s a solid option for anyone interested in marine life, stunning ocean scenery, and a laid-back boat ride.

What really appeals to us is the chance to see humpback whales breach — something that’s both awe-inspiring and pretty special to witness up close. Plus, the informative crew and the chance to explore the Kona coast make this a well-rounded outing. One thing to keep in mind is that, for $99, this is a relatively short tour, so if you’re after a full-day adventure or more exclusivity, you might want to look elsewhere.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy light, relaxing excursions, love spotting wildlife, and want an affordable way to experience Hawaii’s marine wonders. It’s not designed for families with mobility issues or wheelchair users, but if you’re up for a pleasant boat ride with good company, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: The 2-hour duration makes it ideal for fitting into a busy Hawaii itinerary.
• Wildlife highlights: Expect to see humpback whales, and possibly dolphins, with close-up views.
• Affordability: At $99, it offers a decent value for a chance to see whales and enjoy beautiful scenery.
• Informative experience: The crew shares knowledge about whales and the local area.
• Relaxed vibe: Bring your own drinks and sit back on the catamaran for a peaceful, scenic cruise.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Kalaoa Whale Watching Tour

This tour offers a pretty straightforward but enjoyable experience. You’ll begin by checking in at slip A17, where you’ll board the Kibou, a comfortable catamaran suited for small groups. The cruise is designed to be a midday activity—usually in the afternoon—making it a nice way to break up a day of sightseeing or lounging on the beach.

Once underway, your crew will guide you through the waters along the Kona coast, pointing out the best spots for whale sightings. Since humpback whales migrate from Alaska, this season is prime time for whale watching, and the crew’s experience can make a difference in spotting them.

The Itinerary

The trip is pretty straightforward: sail, look for whales, learn a few facts, and enjoy the scenery. A highlight for many is witnessing whales breaching or spyhopping — moments that tend to stick with you. As one reviewer put it, “very friendly and experienced crew, jokes everywhere but especially saw a lot of whales and dolphins.” That mix of fun and knowledge makes for a relaxing, engaging experience.

While the tour doesn’t include food, you’re encouraged to bring your own drinks, which lets you sip something chilled while soaking in the stunning views. The turquoise waters, the distant mountain ranges, and the possibility of catching a whale breach make for some picture-perfect moments.

What the Reviewers Say

One traveler from Belgium called the crew “very friendly and experienced, with jokes everywhere,” and confirmed they saw “a lot of whales and dolphins.” That’s a good sign that the crew’s enthusiasm and expertise add value to the experience. On the other hand, a traveler from the US found that while they saw whales, they were pretty far away, and the only snacks offered were chips and soda. That’s something to keep in mind—if you’re expecting close-up encounters or gourmet snacks, this tour may not quite meet those hopes.

How the Experience Feels

Most people find the tour to be relaxing and scenic, a perfect way to enjoy the ocean without too much commitment. The boat’s smaller size and intimate atmosphere mean you’re likely to have a front-row seat to the whales and beautiful surroundings. It’s a nice change from crowded, large-scale tours and gives a more personal touch.

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The Price and Value

At $99 per person, this tour sits at an accessible price point, especially considering the experience of seeing humpback whales in their natural habitat. For many, the value will be in the memories and photos, not just the cost. Keep in mind, there’s no included transportation to or from the dock, so plan accordingly.

While some might wish for more inclusions—like food or longer duration—the focus here is on the whales and the scenery. If you’re after a brief, engaging encounter with Hawaiian marine life, this price point is fair. You might find similar excursions at a higher cost or with more amenities, but the simplicity here keeps it straightforward and wallet-friendly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals most to travelers who are comfortable on a boat and looking for a light, scenic adventure. It’s particularly suited for those who want to see whales without a full-day commitment. It’s also a good pick if you’re traveling with friends or a partner and prefer a smaller group setting.

If you’re someone who cares about informative guides who can share interesting facts, or if you’re traveling with children who are patient enough for a two-hour boat ride, it could work well. Be mindful that this tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the information suggests.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Kalaoa: Big Island & Kona Midday Whale Watching Tour presents a solid, budget-friendly way to experience some of Hawaii’s most iconic wildlife. While it might not be the most luxurious or inclusive experience out there, it offers stunning views, the thrill of whale sightings, and the chance to relax on the water. For those who appreciate a friendly crew, scenic moments, and wildlife encounters, this tour fits the bill.

If your main goal is to tick off whale sightings and enjoy a peaceful boat ride, you’ll likely walk away with stories and photos that last a lifetime. Just remember to bring your own drinks and be prepared for a short but memorable trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly labeled as family-friendly, but generally, the two-hour duration and gentle nature of the boat ride make it manageable for children, especially those accustomed to boat trips. Always check with the provider if you have concerns about young kids.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not provided. You’re welcome to bring your own drinks, and snacks like chips and soda are available for purchase on board, according to some reviews.

What should I bring?
Bring your own drinks. You might also want sunscreen, hats, or sunglasses for sun protection. Comfortable clothing is recommended since you’ll be outside on the deck.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a short and sweet experience perfect for fitting into a busy day.

Is transportation included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to make your way to the check-in point at slip A17.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in both English and Japanese, catering to a broader range of travelers.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a relaxed, scenic, and affordable chance to see humpback whales and enjoy the beauty of Kona’s waters, this tour offers a straightforward and enjoyable option. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate nature, don’t need luxury extras, and want to keep things simple yet memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: