About Dolphin Discoveries - Captain Cook Snorkel Adventure
Set out along Kona’s rugged coast aboard a comfortable rigid-hull raft, where lava tubes, sea caves and dark volcanic shoreline give the ride plenty to look at before you ever reach the snorkel stop. Along the way, your guide shares stories tied to the coast and points out features shaped by the island’s volcanic past.
At Kealakekua Bay, the water turns calm and clear beneath the cliffs near the Captain Cook Monument. Slip into the bay with your guide and explore one of the Big Island’s best-known marine sanctuaries, where tropical fish move through the reef and coral formations fill the water below.
Back on board, the crew keeps watch for resident spinner dolphins, and during winter there is also a chance to spot migrating humpback whales. The ride blends coastal sightseeing, snorkeling and wildlife watching into one easygoing three-hour adventure.
Tour Highlights
- Combine coastal sightseeing, snorkeling and marine wildlife watching
- Ride along the historic Kona Coast past sea caves and lava tubes
- Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay near the Captain Cook Monument
- Look for spinner dolphins and seasonal humpback whales
- Learn about local wildlife and reef ecology from the crew
Tour Inclusions
- Snacks
- Snorkel gear
- Flotation devices including vests and view-finder boards
- Water and juice
- Bottled water
Special Instructions
Meeting details, important notes and helpful information for your experience.
Where & When
Tour times:
Tour 1: Check in at 8:00 am. Boat departs at 9:00 am. Return at 11:30 am
Tour 2: Check in at 10:45 am. Boat departs at 11:45 am. Return at 2:15 pm
Tour 3: Check in at 12:15 pm. Boat departs at 1:15 pm. Return at 3:45 pm
Check in at the Dolphin Discoveries retail store, located in the Keauhou Shopping Center, 78-6831 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, Space F-146. The retail store is located in the courtyard behind Tropics Tap House, KTA and Bianellis Restaurant.
View Map
Additional check-in info:
Check-in is at the retail location to sign waivers and receive items required for the tour. After that, drive to Keauhou Bay harbor from where the boat will depart. Transportation to the retail store and to Keahou Bay is the responsibility of the guests. If you are taking an Uber, please let your driver know to add a first stop and a second stop to your reservation so that the driver will wait for you at the retail location before taking you to Keauhou Bay.
Restrictions
Participants must be at least 6 years old.
Participants must weigh under 285 pounds (129 kg).
Participants must be able to swim.
This activity is not suitable for persons with neck or back problems or who are pregnant.
Special Notes
Snorkel gear, instruction & swim aids are included, as are snacks and cold drinks.
Whale watching season is from mid-December to mid-April.
Operation Days
Daily
Duration
2.5 hours
Capacity
12 passengers
Equipment
The Nai'a Nui is a 28-foot rigid-hull inflatable adventure craft, complete with shade. It has room for up to 12 passengers.
Vendor
This activity is operated by Dolphin Discoveries.
Questions about this activity?
We’re happy to help with your choices, booking details or an existing reservation.
