From Kona: Big Island Underwater Submarine Adventure

Exploring the Kona Underwater World from a Submarine

If you’re considering a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island, especially around Kona, a submarine adventure might be just the thing to add a little extra magic to your visit. While we haven’t personally been on this particular tour, it’s a popular choice among travelers looking to see the underwater scenes without getting their fins wet. The idea of descending over 100 feet in a comfortable submarine that’s been featured in National Geographic naturally sounds intriguing—and it tends to get excellent reviews.

What we love about this experience is how it combines comfort with adventure. You’re able to explore a vibrant marine environment without the need for scuba gear or swimming skills, which makes it accessible to a wide range of travelers, including those who might be nervous about snorkeling or diving. Plus, the positive feedback about the knowledgeable guides and stunning views really highlight the quality of the experience.

That said, one potential consideration is the duration—the boat ride lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but roughly only 45 minutes are spent underwater. For some, that might feel a little brief given the ticket price, which hovers around $160 per person. Still, many say the time spent exploring the depths is more than enough to see enough marine life and coral to justify the expense.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to see Hawaii’s underwater scenery in a safe, guided, and accessible way. It’s especially ideal for families, groups, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, seated experience rather than snorkeling or diving. If you’re curious about marine life, love photography, or want a child-friendly adventure that doesn’t involve getting wet, this might be a good pick.

Key Points

• Comfort and Accessibility: No diving experience needed, suitable for most ages.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable crew enhances the experience with engaging commentary.
• Beautiful Marine Environment: Coral reefs and diverse fish are the main attractions.
• Time Efficient: About 45 minutes of actual underwater viewing in a 1.5-hour tour.
• Great for Families: Safe, calm, and visually stimulating for kids and adults alike.
• Limited Weather Impact: Weather conditions determine availability, so flexibility might be needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Big Island Underwater Submarine Adventure

This tour offers a rare opportunity to see Hawaii’s underwater world without getting wet. It begins at the Atlantis Submarines facility inside the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel, with check-in typically straightforward and parking in downtown Kona or at the hotel itself. The board the submarine via a special ladder, which is an experience in itself, especially if you’re a bit wary of stairs or confined spaces.

Once inside the submarine, the atmosphere is comfortable and spacious, with large viewing windows that promise clear views of what’s beneath the surface. The submarine is designed to offer a fish-eye view of the underwater landscape, which is a thrilling perspective for anyone interested in marine life or photography.

The Underwater Experience: Marine Life and Coral Reefs

Unlike snorkeling or scuba diving, which can sometimes feel rushed or require rigorous preparation, this tour prioritizes comfort and ease. You will descend over 100 feet into a 25-acre underwater environment teeming with coral and marine creatures. The experience is visually captivating, with colorful coral formations and schools of fish that seem to go on forever.

Many reviews highlight the positive impact of the guides’ commentary. One reviewer mentioned, “Her dad jokes were funny for the audience,” which hints at the tour’s casual, friendly vibe. Others appreciated the guide’s knowledge, noting that they provided informative commentary about the creatures and the environment, making the trip both fun and educational.

Marine Life Sightings and Sights

While the specific species you’ll see vary depending on the conditions, reviews repeatedly mention the abundance of fish and the shipwrecks, which add an extra layer of intrigue. Seeing a variety of marine animals up close, without the hassle of diving gear, is a big selling point. Reviewers like Mona Lisa described it as “so awesome” to see the different species of fish, and Kenneth spoke highly of the marine life around shipwrecks.

The Duration and Pacing

The total ride lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, but only 45 minutes are spent underwater. This is a common setup for such excursions, allowing for safety briefings and transfer time. While some might wish for a longer underwater time, many find the depth of the experience satisfying. It’s enough to get a good sense of the local marine ecosystem without feeling like it drags on.

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The Price and Value

At $160 per person, the tour isn’t exactly cheap. But when you factor in the comfort, safety, guided commentary, and the unique view of Hawaii’s underwater world, it begins to feel like a fair investment. The reviews consistently praise the high quality of the experience, including the cleanliness of the submarine, the clarity of the views, and the engaging guides.

Practicalities: Timing, Group Size, and Accessibility

The tour usually runs in the morning and afternoon, giving some flexibility to fit it into your day. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable sitting for an hour and a half, with the actual underwater portion lasting around 45 minutes. Since no mention is made of large group restrictions, expect a typical group size that allows everyone a good view out the windows.

Note that all riders must be at least 36 inches tall and ticketed, so younger children might not be eligible. Also, there’s no included transportation, so you’ll need to plan your own way to the meeting point at the hotel. This makes it a straightforward activity if you’re already based in Kona or nearby.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in marine environments, but not necessarily in snorkeling or scuba, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for families with kids (over a certain height), groups of friends, or even solo travelers who want a unique perspective on Hawaii’s waters. Those with a curiosity about shipwrecks or reefs will find plenty to admire. If you’re a photographer, the large viewing windows are a bonus, offering excellent photo opportunities.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to be active in the water, or if you’re on a tight budget, this might not be the most suitable option. Also, travelers who are prone to motion sickness might want to consider the stability of the submarine—though it’s designed for comfort, it’s still worth noting.

Final Thoughts

The Big Island Underwater Submarine Adventure offers a compelling way to see Hawaii’s marine life without the fuss of snorkeling or diving. The comfortable, guided experience allows you to relax and focus on the sights, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers. The stunning views and knowledgeable guides consistently earn high praise, and the chance to explore coral reefs and shipwrecks from a fish-eye perspective feels truly special.

While it might feel a bit pricey for some, the quality of the experience and the ease of access make it worthwhile for many. If you’re looking for a family-friendly, educational, and visually captivating activity during your Kona stay, this tour could be just what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the entire tour?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, with approximately 45 minutes spent underwater, depending on weather conditions.

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Yes, all riders must be at least 36 inches tall and have a valid ticket. This makes it suitable for most children over that height.

Do I need any diving experience?
No, this tour does not require any diving or snorkeling skills. It’s fully conducted from inside the submarine with a fish-eye view of the marine environment.

Are there any included transportation options?
No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides are available in English, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese. The included audio guide is in English.

What about weather impacts?
The tour is weather-dependent; if the weather isn’t suitable, the adventure may be canceled or rescheduled. It’s good to have some flexibility in your plans.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, especially if your kids are comfortable sitting for 45 minutes and meet the height requirement. It’s a safe, engaging activity suitable for families with children over the minimum height.

How are the marine sightings?
Reviewers consistently mention wonderful marine life, coral, and shipwrecks, suggesting a high likelihood of seeing interesting underwater sights during your tour.

In summary, if you’re after a relaxed, visually stunning, and educational experience of Kona’s underwater world, this Big Island Underwater Submarine Adventure offers a memorable way to explore Hawaii’s vibrant marine life without getting wet. It’s particularly well-suited for families, first-time visitors, and anyone who appreciates guided, safe exploration above all.

You can check availability for your dates here: