KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel – FREE re-ride if no Sightings

If you’re considering a night out that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring, a Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel might just be the highlight of your trip to Hawaii’s Big Island. This tour promises the chance to snorkel alongside massive, graceful manta rays in their natural habitat—something that many travelers find unforgettable.

From glowing waters and close-up encounters to a small-group vibe, this experience offers a unique blend of adventure and serenity. We love how accessible and educational it is, thanks to knowledgeable guides who keep safety and fun front and center. That said, it’s not without its considerations—choppy ocean conditions, physical demands, and no guaranteed sightings can be a few reasons to think twice.

This tour works best for those comfortable in the water, with some snorkeling experience, and eager for an authentic Hawaiian night adventure. If you’re after a peaceful yet exhilarating experience with a chance to see one of Hawaii’s most iconic creatures up close, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances the personal experience and attention from guides
• All gear provided makes it easy to just show up and enjoy
• Guarantee of sightings with a free re-ride if no mantas are seen
• Short boat ride keeps travel time minimal, focusing on water time
• Educational commentary helps you understand manta rays’ biology and behavior
• Challenging conditions like ocean waves may require good swimming skills and strength

An In-Depth Look at the Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel

The Core of the Experience: Snorkeling with Manta Rays in Their Nighttime Habitat

The main draw of this tour is the chance to see manta rays in their natural environment, which is mostly at night. These gentle giants are attracted to the bay by plankton, which makes for a spectacular display of activity that’s visible from the water’s surface. The tour lasts around 50 minutes from departure to return, with about 25-30 minutes of actual water time, giving you ample opportunity to observe the rays swimming close and even rubbing against you if you’re lucky.

A significant selling point here is the guaranteed sightings. If no mantas are spotted during your session, you’re offered a FREE re-ride. That’s pretty generous considering most other tours don’t offer refunds—though keep in mind, if you just buy a ticket to watch from the boat, no sightings aren’t guaranteed, and there’s no refund in that case.

The Boat & Group Size

This tour is operated on a much smaller boat—just a 23-foot RHIB Zodiac style vessel with capacity for 11 passengers. Many reviews highlight that this makes a big difference. With fewer people, you get more personalized attention, and the crew can focus on making sure everyone has a good experience. It’s a contrast to larger tours that often cram 20 or more aboard, which can feel hectic when you’re trying to get close to the rays.

The Crew & Guides

What really makes this experience stand out is the knowledgeable crew. They’re praised repeatedly for their professionalism, friendliness, and ability to make guests feel comfortable—even nervous snorkelers. Reviewers mention crew members sharing the manta rays’ names—like Jana or Chase—which adds a personal touch. They also provide educational commentary about the rays’ biology and behavior, enriching the overall experience.

The Water & Safety Aspects

Most reviews describe the water as glowing and tranquil, with the manta rays swimming gracefully and sometimes rubbing against snorkelers. However, some mention that ocean conditions can vary—waves might be choppy, and the water can feel cold, especially if you’re not in a wetsuit. Wetsuits are available for rent, and many reviewers recommend bringing a swim suit for warmth.

A few reviews raise safety concerns, especially about the lack of life jackets for snorkeling, which is a serious issue. The provider states that casual-use life jackets are only provided for children 13 and under. Travelers should be confident in their swimming ability and comfortable in open water.

The Timing & Duration

The tour departs in the evening—most commonly around 8:00 PM to 10:20 PM—and the entire experience, including check-in and boat ride, lasts about 1 hour 20 minutes. The short boat ride (approximately 5-10 minutes) takes you to the manta hangout, which is close to the dock, reducing transit time and maximizing water time.

The Cost & Value

At $65 per person, this tour offers solid value—especially considering the small group size, expert guides, and the chance for a guaranteed sighting. Some reviews mention that the experience felt worth every penny and even more, especially when mantas come close enough to touch.

What You Should Know Before Booking

• Experience level: You must be an experienced swimmer with some snorkeling knowledge. The tours are not suitable for beginners or those afraid of open water.
• Physical demands: Swimming and holding onto the rope in potentially choppy water can require strength; some reviews note the ocean can be rough.
• No valuables: No storage is provided, so it’s best to leave valuables behind.
• Weather dependence: Like all ocean activities, tours are subject to weather conditions, and poor weather can lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling.

Authentic Guest Experiences

Many reviewers describe the tour as “magical,” with mantas swimming so close they brush against snorkelers. One guest called it “the best experience of my life,” while others appreciated the small group setting that allowed for more interaction and better viewing opportunities.

A few highlight the professionalism of the crew, mentioning how they shared names of the mantas and made nervous guests feel safe. On the flip side, some reviews caution about challenges in rough water or safety concerns—mainly due to the lack of life jackets and ocean conditions.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This is a great choice for travelers who are comfortable in open water, have some snorkeling experience, and are looking for a more intimate, educational experience. If you’re after a peaceful, close-up encounter with manta rays, and don’t mind a small boat and potential ocean choppiness, you’ll likely love this tour.

However, if you’re not a confident swimmer, or if you’re concerned about safety gear and ocean conditions, you might want to consider other options or ensure you’re prepared accordingly. Also, this tour isn’t ideal if you prefer larger groups or a more relaxed, less hands-on experience.

The Sum Up

The Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel from My Kona Adventures offers a rare opportunity to get face-to-face with one of Hawaii’s most enchanting creatures. The small boat setup and knowledgeable guides create an environment that’s both personal and educational. The chance to see multiple manta rays glide gracefully just inches from you makes it a standout activity on Big Island.

While ocean conditions and safety considerations are worth keeping in mind, the overwhelmingly positive reviews suggest this is a well-organized, highly rewarding excursion. If you’re someone who loves marine life, has some snorkeling experience, and is comfortable in open water, this tour will likely deliver memories that stick with you.

For families with confident swimmers or adventure seekers eager for a night of calm beauty and creature interactions, this is a truly special opportunity. Just come prepared for the physical side of things, and you’ll be rewarded with one of Hawaii’s most magical sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 5 and over can participate, but they must be experienced swimmers. The boat operates on a smaller RHIB vessel, so comfort in water and some swimming ability are needed.

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?
No, all gear—including snorkels and masks—is provided. However, you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Are wetsuits included?
Wetsuits are available to rent at check-in for $10. Many guests find them helpful to stay warm during the water time.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, and a light jacket or clothes to change into afterward. Since valuables aren’t stored on-site, leave jewelry and expensive items behind.

How long is the actual water time?
Expect about 25-30 minutes of water snorkeling, which is a good length for close encounters without it feeling rushed.

What happens if I don’t see any manta rays?
You’ll get a free re-ride if no mantas are spotted during your scheduled session. Remember, sightings are guaranteed, but ocean conditions can affect the experience.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Yes, you should be comfortable swimming and holding onto the rope in possibly rough water. Some reviews mention that ocean waves can be challenging.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled with full refund or a different date.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona. It’s near public transportation, but parking can fill up, so arrive early.

If you’re ready for a special night that offers close-up sights of Hawaii’s famous manta rays, this tour from My Kona Adventures is a clear contender. Just go in prepared, and you’ll likely come away with stories to tell for years.