About Whale Watch
Watch for humpback whales from Captain Zodiac's 24-foot raft on a seasonal Kona Coast whale watching tour with hydrophone listening when available.
Board a swift 24 ft Zodiac raft and skim low across Kona's winter waters for an eye-level view of humpback whales. With everyone just a few feet above the surface, you feel each powerful exhale and see every fluke slap up close while the captain explains courtship, nursing and migration behaviors. A hydrophone lets you listen to haunting whale songs, and the agile raft can quickly position for the best sight lines while still respecting federal viewing regulations.
Tour Highlights
- Observe humpback whales along the Kona Coast during their winter migration
- Small group on a low-profile Zodiac for unobstructed, front-row views
- Chance to spot spinner dolphins, sea turtles and rugged lava shoreline features like sea caves and blowholes
- Live commentary by a naturalist captain plus underwater whale vocals via hydrophone
Good to Know
- Snacks and reusable water stations provided; please bring your own refillable bottle — single-use plastics are not supplied
- Federal Marine Mammal Protection Act guidelines are strictly followed for responsible wildlife viewing
Activity Notes
Where & When
Tour times:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
11:45 am - 2:45 pm
Check in 15 minutes prior to your your time at Honokohau Harbor View Map
Driving directions: Honokohau Marina and small boat harbor is located approximately 5 miles south of the Kona Airport (fourth traffic light) and approximately 2 miles north of the town of Kailua-Kona (third traffic light). The harbor entrance (Kealakehe Parkway) can be found by looking for a sign on the highway marked HONOKOHAU MARINA between mile markers 97 & 98. After turning onto Kealakehe Parkway make your first right and look for a mall with a blue tile roof. Our office is the first on the right in the mall.
Restrictions
Children must be at least 4 years old to participate.
Due to the bouncy nature of the ride, pregnant women or people with back or neck problems may not participate.
Special Notes
This tour might not be available if a cruise ship is visiting Kona on the day of your requested tour day.
Operation Days
Daily except Wednesdays from mid-December through mid-March
Duration
3 hours
Capacity
16 passengers
Equipment
Tour is on a 24-foot Zodiac raft that is U.S. Coast Guard certified and inspected yearly by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Vendor
This activity is operated by Captain Zodiac.
