Big Island: Manta Ray Snorkel Boat Tour

If you’re heading to the Big Island and looking for a truly unforgettable experience, a Manta Ray Snorkel Tour might just be what you need. This adventure promises the chance to swim alongside some of the ocean’s most mesmerizing creatures in their natural habitat. While I haven’t done this specific tour myself, I’ve gathered all the details to help you decide if it’s worth your time.

What really appeals to us about this trip is how it combines expert guidance with a small, intimate group experience—something that can often make or break a tour like this. Plus, the emphasis on safety and respect for marine life suggests that they genuinely care about both their guests and the creatures they’re sharing the water with. On the flip side, you should know it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility restrictions or pregnant women. But if you’re a decent swimmer with some snorkeling experience, this could be a highlight of your trip.

This tour is ideal if you’re after an authentic, hands-on experience with manta rays in a setting that’s both well-organized and personal. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid overly crowded boats and prefer a more relaxed, respectful approach to wildlife encounters.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personal and less overwhelming experience.
• Expert guides with USCG and Red Cross certifications prioritize safety and education.
• High-quality equipment and lighting enhance the snorkeling experience.
• Timing and duration provide ample time for in-water interaction, about 35 minutes.
• Not suitable for everyone—requires prior snorkeling skills and physical ability.
• Family-run business that values land, sea, and wildlife conservation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s the Experience Like?

Imagine stepping onto a spacious boat, feeling comfortable before the adventure begins. You’ll enjoy a 15-25 minute boat ride to the site, taking in views of the Big Island’s coast—an opportunity to relax and prepare for what’s ahead. Once at the site, your guide will assist you in donning shorty wetsuits and snorkeling gear, all top-notch and ready for use.

The main highlight? Snorkeling with manta rays that can reach a wingspan of up to 16 feet. These gentle giants are often found gliding around in the water, illuminated by state-of-the-art lighting designed to attract plankton and, consequently, the mantas. We loved the way guides focus on respecting the wildlife, ensuring your interaction is responsible and safe. The experience is described as serene, ethereal, and even magical by those who’ve done it, with some mentioning how close they got to the mantas—just a foot away!

The Details of the Tour

This tour is around two hours long, which includes the boat ride, prep, and snorkeling time. The small group size is a noteworthy feature—reviews mention fewer people per boat, which enhances the experience, making it less crowded and more intimate. One reviewer said, “The number of people per boat was low, appreciated because the masses spoil the moment.” That’s a pretty good sign that you’ll enjoy a peaceful, focused encounter with the wildlife.

The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One guest described them as “very nice, with good explanations and good vibes,” which hints at a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. With CPR and lifeguard certification, you can feel confident that safety is a priority.

What to Expect in Terms of Snorkeling

Prior snorkeling experience is necessary, and you should be able to independently climb the boat’s side ladder. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues, recent surgeries, or pregnant women, but it’s worth contacting the operator if you think you qualify with exceptions.

Once in the water, you’ll be invited to stay in the water for around 35 minutes, guided by knowledgeable instructors who’ll help you get the best view of the mantas. Many reviews mention the “incredible, once-in-a-lifetime” feeling of being so close to these majestic creatures. One review encapsulated it perfectly: “Swimming just a foot from their huge bodies was incredible. No words—truly phenomenal.”

The Equipment and Comfort

The tour provides shorty wetsuits and snorkel equipment, which means you won’t need to bring your own gear unless you prefer prescription masks. The lighting system is designed to attract plankton, drawing the mantas to you, which makes for a much more engaging experience than just floating around. Expect to stay warm and comfortable as the guides help you navigate and ensure your safety.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Logistics: Getting There and Booking

Your meeting point is on the north side of Honokohau small boat harbor in Kailua-Kona. Directions are straightforward: from Highway 19, turn west onto Kealakehe Parkway, follow it around the harbor, and park near the public restrooms. Look for the white Ram 1500 truck for check-in. Arriving promptly is recommended to start on time, as they emphasize punctuality.

Booking is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later, giving you wiggle room in your travel plans. Just remember to confirm your reservation directly with the operator to avoid any mishaps.

The Cost and Value

At $137 per person, this tour is generally seen as a fair price for the experience. Considering it includes high-quality gear, expert guides, and a small group environment, many guests feel it’s good value. Some reviews mention that the focus on safety and conservation adds to the overall worth.

The Realities: Pros and Cons

While many rave about the guides and the chance to see mantas up close, a couple of reviews mention that not everyone saw manta rays during their trip—one unhappy guest simply said, “We didn’t see the manta ray,” which reminds us that wildlife encounters can never be guaranteed. Also, nature can be unpredictable, and rough waters might cause seasickness, as a reviewer noted.

The activity is very activity-specific—you need prior swimming and snorkeling skills, and it’s not designed for those with physical restrictions. If you’re pregnant or have mobility issues, it’s best to check with the operator beforehand.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurous snorkelers who love marine life and are comfortable in the water. It’s ideal if you’re after a more personal, less commercialized experience, thanks to the small group size. Families with older children who meet the physical requirements might enjoy it too, especially those wanting a memorable wildlife encounter.

However, if you’re unsteady in the water, prone to seasickness, or have health considerations that limit mobility, it might not be the best fit. Still, for those who qualify and seek a peaceful, respectful encounter with manta rays, this tour offers a truly special moment.

Final Thoughts

This Big Island Manta Ray Snorkel Tour offers a chance to witness one of the ocean’s most graceful creatures in their natural environment, guided by knowledgeable professionals committed to safety and conservation. Its small group setup and quality equipment make it stand out in a crowded field of tours, delivering a more personal and respectful experience.

While it’s not a guarantee every trip will see manta rays, the emphasis on education, safety, and wildlife respect makes it a worthwhile choice for seasoned snorkelers and nature lovers. The honest reviews reveal that many find this to be “an absolutely incredible, once-in-a-lifetime experience”—a true highlight for anyone visiting Kona.

If you’re comfortable in the water, looking for a meaningful wildlife encounter, and want to avoid the touristy feeling, this tour might be just what you’re after. Just remember to be prepared, arrive on time, and keep expectations realistic—nature is unpredictable, but the moments you do get will be truly memorable.

FAQ

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Yes, prior swimming and snorkeling skills are required. You should be able to independently climb the boat ladder. Contact the operator if you have questions about exceptions.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, the tour is not recommended for pregnant women due to physical activity and water safety considerations.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes shorty wetsuits, snorkel equipment, and the guidance of certified safety personnel. The focus on safety and equipment quality makes it a good value.

How long is the snorkeling time?
Expect around 35 minutes of actual snorkeling, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the view of the manta rays.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep flexibility.

What if I don’t see manta rays?
While many guests see the mantas, sightings are not guaranteed—they are wild animals. The guides do their best to ensure a memorable experience, even if the mantas don’t appear.

If you’re up for a peaceful, respectful wildlife adventure with expert guides, this tour could be a special addition to your Big Island trip. Just pack your sense of adventure, some water-friendly gear, and an open mind—and you might find yourself sharing the water with some of the most enchanting creatures the ocean has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: