Big Island Private Boat Charter in Kona - Choose Snorkeling, Whale Watching or Custom Day Cruise

Reserve a private boat charter in Kona on the Big Island and enjoy a personalized ocean experience built entirely around your group. With flexible start times and hourly options from two to four hours, this private charter allows you to choose how you spend your time on the water. Snorkel tropical reefs, cruise along the Kona coastline, or head out during winter months to look for migrating humpback whales. Your experienced local captain and crew adjust the route and activities based on ocean conditions, season, and your preferences. Relax aboard a comfortable Coast Guard certified powerboat, enjoy included beverages and light snacks, and let the crew share local knowledge about marine life, conservation, and Hawaiian history. This private charter is ideal for families, couples, and small groups looking for a relaxed and customizable Big Island boating experience.

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Why Do Travelers Choose This Tour?

Private, Fully Custom Kona Charter: Choose how you spend your time on the water, from snorkeling and coastal cruising to winter whale watching, with hourly options and a relaxed private setting.

Local Captain and Crew, Real Island Knowledge: Your crew shares insights on marine life, conservation, and Hawaiian history, and adjusts the route based on ocean conditions and your group’s goals.

Comfortable Boat, Snacks and Drinks Included: Enjoy a smooth ride with shade and padded seating, plus beverages, fresh island fruit, and light snacks served onboard during your charter.

Great for Families, Couples, and Small Groups: This Kona private boat charter is ideal for celebrations, family adventures, and anyone who wants a flexible Big Island ocean experience.

What To Expect

• Check in at Honokohau Harbor, then meet your captain and crew for a quick overview of the plan
• Depart along the Kona coastline, with the route tailored to your timing, season, and ocean conditions
• Enjoy activity options like snorkeling, sightseeing, swimming, and winter whale watching
• Relax onboard with shaded seating, easy ocean access, and a comfortable ride
• Snack on fresh island fruit and light bites, and sip included beverages as you cruise
• Return to Honokohau Harbor for an easy drop off, with time to explore nearby Kailua Kona

Local Expert Tips

• Arrive early for easier parking at Honokohau Harbor, it is a busy port and spaces fill up quickly.
• Morning conditions are often calmer, and early hours can be great for wildlife viewing along the Kona coast.
• Winter whale watching season is typically December through March, sightings depend on daily ocean conditions.
• Wear your swimsuit under your clothes, and bring a light sweater or cover up for breezy mornings on the water.
• Bring a towel, and consider a waterproof phone case or strap if you plan to take photos.

What To Bring

• Swimsuit worn under your clothes
• Towel
• Reef safe sunscreen
• Sunglasses and hat
• Light cover up or windbreaker
• Waterproof phone case or camera protection

Boat Information

Wahine Charters operates Coast Guard certified vessels for private Kona charters on the Big Island, including the custom built 29 ft “Wicked Wahine” and the 40 ft Delta “Kaiola” depending on availability. Boats feature comfortable seating, a shaded area, and easy ocean entry for swim and snorkel time, with an experienced captain and crew focused on safety and a smooth ride.

How to get there?

Check-in location: Honokohau Harbor is conveniently located just north of popular Kailua-Kona and just south of Kona International Airport (KOA). It is accessible from HI-19, or Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway. The closest public transit is bus #202, which stops about a 20-minute walk from the harbor. Rideshare or taxi services are also a great option for those coming from Kailua-Kona or other towns nearby.

Parking Information: Plenty of free parking is available on both sides (north and south) of Honokohau Harbor.

Driving distance from main resort areas: Honokohau Harbor is only about 10 minutes from the heart of Kailua-Kona by car, and about 40 from Waikoloa, depending on traffic conditions. If you are coming from resorts on the other side of the island, such as Hilo (Volcano) or Puna, plan on about 2 hours to drive across Saddle Road.