Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran from Kailua-Kona

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, chances are you’ll want to explore its vibrant marine life and stunning coastline. The Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch aboard a luxury catamaran promises an engaging half-day adventure, and from the glowing reviews, it’s clear why many travelers highly recommend it. This experience combines the thrill of snorkeling with the chance to spot dolphins and other marine mammals, all from a beautifully maintained, spacious boat.

What we love about this tour is how well-rounded it is: the comfortable boat with all the amenities, and the well-curated activities like water slides and paddleboarding. Plus, the included delicious meals and drinks elevate the experience, making it more than just a quick trip in the water. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour doesn’t include alcohol, and some may find the two-hour snorkel window a bit brief if they want more underwater exploration.

This cruise is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of wildlife spotting, water fun, and great food—all in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. If you’re looking for an activity that offers adventure without feeling rushed, and if you love the idea of relaxing on a luxurious boat while soaking in Kona’s vistas, this trip could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience: Meals, drinks, snorkeling gear, and water toys are included.
• Wildlife sightings: Excellent chance of dolphin or marine mammal encounters.
• Family-friendly activities: Water slide, high jump platform, paddleboarding, and floating mats.
• Comfort and accessibility: Spacious, clean boat with shade, restrooms, and water showers; wheelchair accessible.
• Short but sweet: Total duration around 4.5 hours, with about 2 hours of snorkeling.
• Value for money: At $189.19 per person, it offers a comprehensive marine adventure with many fun extras.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

This cruise begins at Kailua Pier, with boarding roughly 30 minutes before departure. The boat departs from the Kailua Kona area, traveling along Kona’s famous Gold Coast. The journey itself offers scenic views of the coastline, giving you a taste of Hawaii’s breathtaking scenery even before you hit the water. The crew is praised for being friendly, helpful, and patient—especially welcoming if you’re new to snorkeling or water activities.

First Stop: In the Marine Sanctuary

Once the boat reaches the snorkel site in the Red Hill area, it’s time to gear up. All snorkeling equipment—masks, fins, snorkels—are provided, though travelers are advised to bring their own towels. Many reviews like Ayesha’s mention the “hundreds of fish” seen during snorkeling, with some variety in marine life making each trip unique. The water in this protected sanctuary is calm and clear, perfect for viewing marine life. Expect around two hours of water time, which is enough for multiple snorkel sessions, especially if you’re keen to get your fill.

Marine Life and Wildlife

The highlight for many is spotting dolphins or other marine mammals. The crew is attentive and works hard to find these friendly creatures, and several guests have shared how exhilarating it is to see dolphins swimming alongside the boat or jumping out of the water. As one reviewer put it, “There’s an excellent chance of dolphin or other marine mammal sightings,” and many guests do get rewarded with encounters that make the experience memorable.

Lunch and Relaxation

After snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a barbecue lunch prepared by the crew, which many reviews describe as tasty and satisfying. Think burgers, island-style breakfast items like muffins, and plenty of non-alcoholic beverages. The emphasis on fresh, well-prepared food helps keep energy levels high for the rest of your trip. Many travelers mention the “delicious meals” and the open bar, although alcohol is available for purchase separately.

Water Fun and Amenities

The boat itself is designed with fun and comfort in mind. The 20-foot waterslide, 15-foot high jump platform, paddleboards, and floating mats ensure everyone can find something to enjoy. Families especially appreciate the variety of options for kids and adults alike. The boat is spacious, with ample shade, restrooms, and fresh water showers, making it easy to relax or cool off during breaks.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kailua Pier

Boardings begin at around 7:30 am for an 8 am departure—perfect for a morning adventure. The pier is conveniently close to parking, with free parking available just a short walk away. The check-in process is straightforward, and the crew is praised for their friendly, organized approach.

Stop 2: Cruising Along Kona’s Gold Coast

As the boat heads out, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Kona’s coast. The journey itself is a highlight, with some reviews mentioning the comfortable, well-maintained vessel and the friendly attitude of the crew. The boat cruises through protected marine sanctuaries, where the likelihood of dolphin sightings is high. The crew is attentive to wildlife, often slowing down or changing course to give guests a better look at dolphins or whale activity.

Stop 3: Snorkeling at Red Hill

The snorkeling site is in the Red Hill area, chosen for its calm and clear waters. It’s important to note that the tour doesn’t include snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, which is a well-known reef site in Hawaii, but many find the Red Hill area just as productive for marine life observation. The provided gear ensures a good fit, and the crew is patient with first-timers, helping everyone feel comfortable in the water.

Stop 4: Returning and Relaxing

Post-snorkel, you can lounge on the boat, enjoy your meal, or take advantage of the water toys. The return trip offers more scenic views and a chance to unwind with a cocktail or soft drink from the cash bar. Many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic this part of the trip is, with guests enjoying the coastal vistas and the fresh sea breeze.

Real Guest Perspectives: What They Loved and Not So Much

Many guests rave about the friendly crew and the delicious, plentiful meals. Amber’s review, calling it “the best snorkeling experience,” highlights the boat’s fun atmosphere and the excellent food, which she described as “amazing.” Others mention the boat’s comfort and cleanliness, with several saying it never felt overcrowded or cramped.

Wildlife sightings are a common highlight, with some guests fortunate enough to see whales and dolphins. Penny shared her excitement about whale and dolphin encounters, and Brittany appreciated the crew’s attentiveness, especially in caring for unwell children and making everyone feel comfortable.

When it comes to water activities, the water slide and high jump platform are popular among families. Jennifer D. pointed out that the slide was “very fun for everyone,” including adults. The paddleboarding and floating mats are also well-received, offering plenty of ways to stay entertained.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A couple of guests experienced seasickness, with MissMightyMax reporting significant discomfort during rough waters. This reminds potential travelers that ocean conditions can influence the trip, and if seasickness is a concern, it might be worth considering this factor.

Another consideration is the absence of alcohol in the included price—while beverages are plentiful, alcohol must be purchased separately. Also, the tour doesn’t include snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, which might disappoint those looking for that specific reef.

Analyzing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At roughly $189 per person, the tour offers a lot for the price. You get about two hours of snorkel time, all gear, meals, beverages, and access to water toys—all in a well-maintained, spacious vessel. The included meals and drinks, coupled with the wildlife encounters and water fun, make it a good deal for those wanting a comprehensive day on the water without additional expenses.

The tour’s popularity—being booked, on average, 44 days in advance—speaks to its reputation. Plus, the positive reviews reinforce the idea that most guests feel they received value for their money. Families and groups looking for a fun, all-inclusive adventure will find this cruise to be a memorable part of their Big Island trip.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy sea life encounters, water activities, and good food. It’s friendly enough for families with kids (who are comfortable in the water), but also appeals to adults looking for a relaxed, scenic cruise with chances to see dolphins and whales.

If you’re a snorkeler who wants ample water time and fun extras like slides and paddleboards, you’ll love the variety here. It’s also a solid choice for anyone wanting a luxury experience without the hefty price tag, given the boat’s amenities and the inclusive meals.

On the other hand, if you’re prone to seasickness, or if you’re specifically eager to snorkel in Kealakekua Bay, you might want to explore other options or be prepared with seasickness remedies. The tour does require guests to arrange their transportation and bring their own towels, so come prepared.

FAQs

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
All snorkeling gear is included, so you can just bring your own towel if you prefer.

Are alcoholic beverages included?
No, alcohol is available for purchase separately. Beverages during the trip are included, but alcohol is not part of the package.

How long is the snorkeling time?
Expect about 2 hours of snorkeling, giving you plenty of time to explore and see marine life.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the boat is 100% wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What should I bring on the trip?
Bring a towel, sunscreen (reef safe is provided), swimwear, and a sense of adventure. The tour includes snacks and drinks, but you may want additional personal items.

What is the best time to book?
Most travelers book around 44 days in advance, indicating it’s popular. Booking early ensures you secure your spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation if you cancel at least 24 hours before the trip. No refunds are given if canceled within 24 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 18 and younger must be accompanied by an adult, and the tour is generally family-friendly, especially if your kids are comfortable in the water.

Final Thoughts

The Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch aboard a luxury catamaran offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day out on the Big Island’s waters. With its friendly crew, scenic voyage along Kona’s coast, and an array of water activities, it’s clear why so many find it memorable. The included meals and drinks add value, making it a hassle-free way to explore marine life in comfort.

This trip would be especially good for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, fun, and relaxation, all wrapped up in a comfortable, accessible setting. It’s a solid choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Just keep in mind ocean conditions, seasickness, and the fact that it doesn’t include snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay if that’s a priority.

If your Hawaii itinerary includes a day on the water and you’re eager to combine adventure with leisure and good food, this cruise could very well be a highlight of your trip.