Private & Custom – Family Fish and Snorkel Charter

Trying to find a memorable way for your family to enjoy the waters of Kona? This Private & Custom Family Fish and Snorkel Charter offers a tailored adventure designed to suit all ages and interests. Whether your family loves to fish, snorkel, or just enjoy the stunning ocean views, this trip aims to deliver an authentic and flexible experience.

What makes this trip stand out? We’re impressed by its versatility — it combines fishing with marine encounters, from whales and dolphins to reefs bursting with marine life. Plus, the private setting means your group can enjoy a personalized experience, free from the noise and rush of larger tours.

However, the price tag of nearly $1,835 per group might seem steep at first glance. While this covers a lot — fishing gear, licenses, snacks, and drinks — it’s worth considering whether the value aligns with your family’s adventurous spirit and desire for a customized day.

This tour suits families who want a flexible, all-in-one day on the water, especially those eager to combine fishing with wildlife watching or snorkeling. If your family appreciates personalized service and a chance to create shared memories in a relaxed setting, this trip could be perfect.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a personalized day.
• Flexible Itinerary: The captain adjusts activities based on conditions and sightings.
• Diverse Activities: Combines fishing, whale watching, dolphin spotting, and snorkeling.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, promoting shared fun and memories.
• Marine Abundance: Kona’s waters are known for vibrant marine life and excellent fishing grounds.
• Cost Consideration: Premium price reflects the private, tailored nature of the trip.

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

The Booking and Meeting Point

Booking this tour requires some planning, as it’s typically booked around 49 days in advance. You’ll meet at Manta Adventures located conveniently in Kailua-Kona. The trip starts promptly at 7:30 am, giving you a full half day of activities. You’ll be on a private boat that accommodates up to 10 people, making it ideal for families or small groups seeking a more intimate experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour lasts roughly 4 hours and 30 minutes, offering a well-paced balance between fishing and marine exploration. The day is divided into two major parts: fishing and marine life encounters.

Fishing Time: Half the trip is dedicated to fishing, which is a key highlight for families who enjoy the sport or want to try it out. The crew provides all necessary fishing tackle and licenses, so you don’t need to worry about gear or permits. The waters off Kona are noted for prized catches like Ono (wahoo) and Mahi Mahi, both delicious options to cook back home or on the boat. One review mentions a family member catching a beautiful Ono, which they later enjoyed for dinner, illustrating the tangible reward of fishing here.

Wildlife & Snorkeling: The other half transforms into a marine adventure tailored to sightings and conditions. You might encounter breaching whales, playful spinner dolphins, or vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Snorkel gear is included, and the clear waters of Kona are often praised for their visibility and variety of fish, corals, and sea creatures.

The Experience on the Water

We loved the way the crew keeps the experience flexible and engaging. If whales are breaching or dolphins are leaping, the captain can steer towards them — making each trip unique. Reviews praise the crew’s friendliness, professionalism, and ability to create a comfortable environment. One reviewer noted how Captain Jason and First Mate Ian managed challenges with getting on and off the boat but still delivered an excellent trip.

What About the Views?

The scenery on this tour is a major selling point. Kona’s waters are famed for their stunning views and abundant marine life, both of which you’ll enjoy from the deck or while snorkeling. The chance to see majestic whales and acrobatic dolphins adds a special thrill that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Cost and Value

At $1,835 for the entire group, this is a premium experience. That price includes everything — fishing gear, licenses, snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment. Considering the personalized nature of the trip, the potential for catching fresh fish, and dolphins or whales sightings, many will find the cost justified.

Several reviews emphasize the value of customization and exclusive access to Kona’s waters. They highlight how the trip suits families looking for a tailored, memorable experience rather than a crowded, generic tour.

The Crew and Reviews

The positive feedback is consistent. Comments range from “pleasant and proficient crew” to “excellent guides who make sure everyone’s comfortable.” The crew’s attentiveness is often mentioned as a key part of the trip’s success. One reviewer sums it up: the crew “went above and beyond to ensure our comfort and enjoyment,” which creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Cancellation & Practical Tips

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance — a considerate option if weather turns unfavorable or schedules change. The tour depends on good weather, so flexibility is key. If cancelled due to poor conditions, a full refund or a rescheduling option is available.

For travelers, arriving at the meeting point on time is straightforward, and the boat is equipped to handle most participants comfortably.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for families or small groups wanting a personalized adventure on the water. It’s ideal if you’re interested in combining fishing, wildlife encounters, and snorkeling in one flexible day. Those who value private experiences and a chance to create unique memories will find this offering particularly appealing.

If you’re traveling with children, teenagers, or even adults who enjoy a bit of sport and nature, this trip offers a relaxed, fun, and authentic Hawaiian experience. It’s not the cheapest option, but the focused, tailored nature and inclusion of key activities justify the price for many.

Final Thoughts

For families seeking a customizable, engaging day on the ocean, this private Kona charter delivers a lot of value. The mix of fishing, wildlife viewing, and snorkeling, set against the backdrop of Kona’s stunning marine scenery, makes it a special way to spend part of your Hawaii vacation.

The personalized attention from the crew, combined with the opportunity to catch fresh fish or spot whales and dolphins, creates a well-rounded experience that’s both adventurous and relaxing. Be prepared for a flexibility-driven trip — it’s all about what the conditions and wildlife offer on the day.

This tour is best for groups who want an exclusive, family-oriented water adventure that balances activity with comfort, all while exploring the vibrant marine environment of the Big Island. With good planning, it’s an experience that will likely stay with you long after you return home.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 10 people, making it perfect for families or small groups seeking a private experience.

What activities are included?
The trip combines fishing, whale and dolphin watching, and snorkeling — all tailored to what’s happening on the day.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included in the price, allowing you to explore Kona’s clear waters at no extra cost.

What is the start time?
The tour begins at 7:30 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the morning on the water.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the trip. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Is tipping expected?
Tipping isn’t expected but is greatly appreciated if you feel the crew provided excellent service.

This private Kona charter offers a well-rounded, authentic marine adventure—ideal for families eager to combine sport, wildlife, and scenic beauty in a relaxed, personalized setting.