Private Charter Morning Snorkel and Wildlife Watch. Up to 18 Pax

Engaging Review of the Private Morning Snorkel and Wildlife Watch Tour on Big Island

If you’re looking for a way to experience the Big Island’s vibrant marine life without the crowds, a private morning snorkel adventure with wildlife watching might just be your perfect choice. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, a well-reviewed option offered by Snorkel Big Island promises an intimate, flexible, and scenic outing along the Kona coast, tailored to your group’s interests.

What draws us to this experience are two standout features: first, the customized itinerary that considers water conditions, marine activity, and crowd levels, ensuring you get the best possible snorkeling site each day; second, the personalized attention from experienced captains and guides eager to help you capture beautiful photos and spot whales, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and more.

A potential consideration for travelers is the price point—at $1,800 for up to 15 guests, it’s an investment, but when shared among your group, it offers excellent value for a private, flexible, and memorable outing. Perfect for families, friends, or couples who want a tailored experience, this tour suits those eager for a relaxed, exclusive adventure on the water rather than a large, crowded group.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized service and flexibility.
• Flexibility in Location: The best snorkel site is chosen daily based on water conditions and marine activity.
• Wildlife Watching: Look out for whales, dolphins, turtles, and manta rays—seasonal and wildlife sightings are prioritized.
• Comfort & Convenience: The boat offers shade, seating, dry storage, and a step ladder for easy re-entry.
• In-Water Time: Over an hour of snorkel time within a 2.5-hour trip—ample opportunity to enjoy the reef.
• All-Inclusive Snacks & Equipment: Bottled water, juice, granola bars, and snorkeling gear are provided, making it effortless for you.

Discovering the Kona Coast from the Water

The Kona coast is renowned for its stunning volcanic scenery, clear water, and abundant marine life. This private tour offers a refreshing break from crowded group excursions, focusing instead on your group’s pace and interests. With a dedicated captain and crew, the experience is designed to maximize your time in the water, giving you genuine chances to see marine creatures in their natural habitat.

The boat’s size—up to 19 passengers—means plenty of space for everyone to relax, and the shade helps beat the Hawaiian sun. The step ladder ensures safe and easy access back onto the boat after snorkeling, which can be appreciated after a vigorous swim.

Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

The tour begins at Snorkel Big Island’s meeting point on Kealakehe Parkway in Kailua-Kona. The crew emphasizes flexibility, so you’ll start with a quick safety briefing and gear setup. Once out on the water, your captain will select the day’s prime snorkel spot, balancing water quality, marine activity, and crowd levels.

Expect at least an hour of in-water snorkeling, which is plenty of time to explore the underwater scene. The coral reefs often buzz with activity—colorful fish, curious sea turtles, and possibly manta rays gliding nearby. The crew loves helping guests capture photos, so don’t forget your waterproof camera or phone.

Throughout the trip, snacks like granola bars, bottled water, and juice keep you energized, and the fresh water rinse facilities help wash off the salt afterward. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, eager to point out marine highlights and answer questions, enhancing the experience beyond just floating in the water.

Wildlife Watching and Marine Encounters

One of the tour’s most exciting features is the chance to see a variety of marine wildlife. The crew keeps a keen eye out for whales (season permitting), dolphins, and the ever-graceful turtles that frequent the reef. Many travelers comment on how attentive and enthusiastic the guides are about wildlife sightings, often helping guests get great shots of these animals in their natural environment.

Manta rays are another shared highlight on Big Island, though specific sightings depend on the day’s conditions and season. The guides’ experience ensures you’re taken to the best possible locations for wildlife spotting, making each trip unique.

Value and Pricing Considerations

At $1,800 for a group of up to 15, this private tour offers a remarkable level of intimacy and customization. When divided among friends or family, it becomes quite economical compared to larger group excursions, and the personalized service adds a layer of comfort and flexibility.

While some may find the price high, it’s important to consider what’s included: snorkel gear, snacks, water, shade, and a dedicated guide—all tailored to your group’s interests. This makes the experience not just about snorkeling but about having a professional, personalized adventure on the Big Island’s stunning waters.

Practical Details for Planning Your Trip

Starting at the convenient Snorkel Big Island location, the tour’s timing fits well with morning plans, offering cooler temperatures and calmer waters. The duration of roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes is ideal for travelers who want a substantial activity without it being a full-day commitment.

It’s wise to call ahead for availability, especially during peak seasons, and to confirm that your group size fits within capacity. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility restrictions might find it less accessible due to the boat’s features.

The tour’s cancellation policy offers reassurance—free cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance, a good safeguard if weather turns unfavorable or plans change.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Pick This Tour?

This private snorkel and wildlife watch tour is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a personalized, flexible, and educational experience on the Big Island. It’s particularly suited for small groups, families, or couples who value intimate encounters with marine life and the comfort of a private boat. It’s also ideal for those who want to avoid crowded excursions and prefer a more relaxed, tailored outing.

If your priority is capturing stunning wildlife shots, enjoying quiet, scenic moments, and having a knowledgeable crew at your side, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s a way to make your time on the water both fun and meaningful—without feeling rushed or crowded.

FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 15 guests are allowed per private booking, making it a cozy and personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
Snorkel gear, bottled water, juice, granola bars, a fresh water rinse, shade, and guide services are included.

Are there any additional costs?
You might need to bring a prescription snorkel mask if desired, as it’s not provided. Call ahead to confirm availability.

What is the duration of the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with more than an hour of in-water snorkeling.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. The tour is weather-dependent, and poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with significant mobility restrictions.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Snorkel Big Island’s meeting point at Kealakehe Parkway in Kailua-Kona.

Do I need to call for availability?
Yes, it’s advisable to call the tour provider directly to confirm availability before booking.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see whales (seasonal), dolphins, turtles, and manta rays—though sightings depend on the day’s conditions.

This private snorkel and wildlife tour offers a rare chance to enjoy the Kona coast’s marine splendors at your own pace, with professionals eager to make your experience special. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, it’s a wonderful way to connect with Hawaii’s underwater world in an intimate, memorable way.