Hawai’i: Private Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Drinks

Exploring the Hawai’i: Private Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Drinks

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island and looking for a way to see its underwater beauty without the crowds, this private snorkeling tour with Captain Zodiac might just be what you’re after. It promises a laid-back, personalized experience, complete with marine encounters, scenic coastlines, and a tasty lunch—all tailored around your schedule.

What caught our eye is how this tour offers exclusive access to Kealakekua Bay during non-peak times, meaning fewer people and more space to enjoy the vibrant reefs. Plus, the flexibility to pick your departure time means you can avoid the busiest part of the day, making for a more relaxed experience. We also appreciate the inclusion of dolphin sightings and exploration of natural features like blowholes and lava tubes, which add a sense of adventure beyond just snorkeling.

A potential snag? The overall price tag of $1,363 per group (up to six people) might seem high for some, especially since it’s a private tour, but it often translates into a more intimate experience with less crowding and personalized attention. This setup is best suited for travelers who want a tailored, more secluded outing rather than a large group tour.

This experience would suit couples, small families, or groups wanting a flexible, enjoyable day exploring Hawaii’s marine environment without the crowds. If you value comfort, customization, and a deeper connection to the island’s natural beauty, this could be a good fit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, flexible tours mean no crowds and departure times that fit your schedule.
• Kealakekua Bay is renowned as the best snorkeling spot in Hawaii, with pristine waters and vibrant reefs.
• Marine encounters include dolphins and exploring natural features like blowholes and lava tubes.
• All snorkel gear is provided, including Rx masks for those with vision needs.
• Lunch and drinks are included, making it a convenient and relaxed experience.
• Children get special recognition with Jr. Pirate Awards, making it family-friendly if suited.

A Deep Dive into the Tour

This Hawai’i private snorkeling adventure is designed to be both enjoyable and informative, and it’s clear the focus is on quality rather than quantity. For starters, the flexible departure times set this tour apart—most group tours run early in the morning, but here, you can choose your start time, which helps you avoid the crowds and plan your day more comfortably.

The main highlight is Kealakekua Bay, often touted as the best snorkeling spot on the Big Island. Its status as a marine preserve means the waters are unusually clear, free of dirt and runoff, and the reefs are teeming with marine life. You’ll likely spend a generous amount of time here, exploring the vibrant coral and reef fish at your own pace. The view of the Captain Cook monument as you approach makes the experience all the more memorable.

The boat used in this tour is a Zodiac raft, which adds an element of excitement and accessibility. This vessel’s small size and maneuverability allow the captain to take you into areas that larger boats simply can’t access—think sea caves, lava tubes, and natural blowholes. These natural formations not only look stunning but also provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Marine life encounters are a big part of what makes this tour stand out. The reviews note that dolphin sightings are common, and many guests enjoy watching these intelligent creatures in their natural environment. The captain also stops along the way if marine life is spotted, which adds spontaneity and excitement.

The snorkeling gear provided is of high quality—think silicone masks, Rx masks if needed, fins, and float devices. Having gear that fits well makes a big difference in comfort and safety, especially if you’re not a seasoned snorkeler. The reef and water are so clear that you’ll be able to see a lot without needing to dive deep—ideal for both beginners and more experienced snorkelers.

After several hours in the water, you’ll enjoy a tropical fruit platter, sandwiches, and soft drinks onboard. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that keeps everyone energized. As you munch, the guide shares stories about the bay’s history and Captain Cook’s story, adding a cultural and historical layer to your day.

The return trip is equally engaging, as the captain takes you along the rugged coastline, flaunting views of lava formations, blowholes, and caves—places only accessible by small, agile boats. This part of the tour offers a sense of adventure and discovery, especially for those who love exploring off-the-beaten-path spots.

Children aren’t forgotten—there’s a fun Jr. Pirate Award ceremony, recognizing the keiki who complete their “right of passage.” It’s a nice touch, especially if you’re traveling with families, though the tour is not specifically marketed as family-friendly for very young children.

Breaking Down the Costs and Value

At $1,363 for up to six people, this private tour works out to roughly $227 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the exclusivity, personalized service, and all-inclusive nature—including snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, and marine encounters—it’s actually a reasonable deal for those seeking a high-quality experience. The private aspect means you won’t have strangers in your photos or competing for space in the water.

Guests often comment on the value of having a flexible schedule and the ability to choose snorkeling times, which can make a big difference in how relaxed and enjoyable your day is. If you prefer a more intimate, customizable experience, this tour delivers that in spades.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

• Pickup and Launch: Depending on your schedule, you’ll meet the captain and set sail on a Zodiac raft. The departure is flexible, giving you time to plan your morning.
• Cruise Along the Coast: Before reaching the main snorkeling spot, you’ll cruise along the dramatic coastline, passing natural blowholes, lava tubes, and sea caves—places few larger boats can explore.
• Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay: Once you arrive, you can spend as long as you like exploring the reef. The bay is a protected marine reserve, so marine life is abundant and water clarity is excellent.
• Additional Stops or Free Time: You can opt to go to a second snorkel site or stay longer in the bay. The boat’s five-hour rental provides plenty of flexibility.
• Lunch and Relaxation: After snorkeling, it’s time to enjoy the tropical fruit platter, sandwiches, and drinks. The captain shares stories about the area’s history, including Captain Cook’s story.
• Return with Exploration: On the way back, the captain takes you into more secluded spots, viewing blowholes, lava tubes, and caves, making the return just as interesting as the outbound journey.
• Jr. Pirate Awards: If you’re traveling with keiki, they’ll love the recognition and fun of the awards ceremony.

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What You Should Bring

To get the most out of your day, pack the usual beach essentials: sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Even though the tour provides gear, bringing your own waterproof camera or GoPro can help you capture your underwater moments.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private snorkeling tour is ideal if you’re looking for a customized, less crowded experience. It’s perfect for couples wanting a romantic escape, small groups of friends, or families who love a bit of adventure. Keep in mind, the tour isn’t targeted at pregnant women or those with back problems, given the nature of boat travel and snorkeling.

Because of the private setup, it’s also a good choice if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a day tailored to your interests without feeling rushed or crowded.

Final Thoughts

This Hawai’i private snorkeling tour offers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and exclusivity. The ability to pick your departure time, combined with the chance to explore Kealakekua Bay and other secluded spots, makes it stand out from more standard group tours. The inclusion of lunch, drinks, and marine encounters adds to the overall value, making it a well-rounded experience for those who want a personal touch.

If you’re after a calm, customized day in the water with a good dose of Hawaii’s natural beauty and history, this tour ticks many boxes. The natural features you’ll see—lava tubes, blowholes, caves—are things you might not get to explore on larger, less flexible tours. And the marine life encounters, especially the dolphins, will leave you with memories long after your trip.

This experience might be pricier than some, but for a private, tailored day on the water, it’s a solid choice—especially if you prioritize quiet, personalized moments and scenic exploration over crowds.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, and there’s a fun Jr. Pirate Awards ceremony for the keiki. However, the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, so consider the age and comfort of your kids, especially with boat travel and snorkeling.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private charter, snorkeling gear (including Rx masks if needed), all snorkel equipment, a tropical fruit platter, sandwiches, soft drinks, and Jr. Pirate awards for children.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, the tour offers flexible departure times, usually in the morning, allowing you to avoid crowds and plan your day more comfortably.

How long do we spend snorkeling?
You can spend as long as you want in Kealakekua Bay, with the boat rental lasting five hours. You can also choose to visit additional snorkel spots if desired.

What natural features will I see during the trip?
Expect to see natural blowholes, lava tubes, and sea caves along the rugged coastline. The boat’s small size allows access to these often inaccessible spots.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a sandwich lunch, tropical fruit platter, and soft drinks are provided onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. You might find it helpful to have waterproof gear for your camera.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
The tour is designed for private groups with up to six people, so it’s best suited for families, couples, or small groups. Solo travelers might want to look for other options, as this one is focused on private experiences.

In the end, if you’re after an intimate, flexible, and scenic day in Hawaii’s waters—especially if you appreciate a personalized touch—this tour offers a memorable way to connect with the island’s underwater world and rugged coastlines.

You can check availability for your dates here: