Reviewed by: はたごさん
In August 2022, when travel was still strict due to COVID-19, I went to the Big Island and enjoyed a private charter. Since it was my first time in Hawaii, I don't have anything to compare it to, but I felt very safe and secure because it was private.
By the way, according to our guide, Mr. Nawata, we were the first Japanese guests after COVID.
The positives were:
- Since it was private,
1. The schedule was flexible.
2. I could keep a close eye on the children who are not strong swimmers, ensuring their safety.
3. Although they had solid COVID-19 measures in place, it felt even safer since there were no other families around.
- We saw dolphins jumping when we arrived at the bay.
- The children were satisfied seeing beautiful fish.
The trip from Honokohau Harbor to Kealakekua Bay took about an hour one way, and we spent about an hour in the water, but the kids seemed to enjoy it enough, and the breeze on the boat was pleasant.
While it is somewhat more expensive compared to shared boats, we were able to do things that wouldn't be possible without the private charter, and I believe it was a great experience for the children. For families or groups of four or more, especially those with relatively small children, I think it's definitely worth it to go for a private charter.
まだコロナで渡航が厳しい2022年8月にハワイ島にいってプライベートチャーターを楽しみました。初めてのハワイだったので比較対象がないのですが、プライベートだったので、安心安全でとてもよかったと思います。
ちなみに、ガイドの縄田さんによると、コロナ後初の日本人だったそうです。
良かった点としては、
・プライベートだったので、
①スケジュールの融通が利く。
②泳ぎが得意でない子供たちにもしっかり目が届いて安心安全。
③コロナ対策もしっかりしていますが、それ以上に他の家族がいないので安心。
・湾に着いた時にイルカがジャンプしているのが見れたこと。
・子どもたちもきれいな魚が見れて満足していたこと。
出発地のホノウコウ・ハーバーからケアラケクア湾までは片道1時間、往復2時間ほどで海に入れたのは1時間ほどでしたが、子どもたちは十分満喫したようでしたし、ボートの風は気持ち良かったです。
乗り合いのボートと比べると多少値段は張りますが、プライベートではないとできないことができ、子どもたちにもとてもいい体験になったと思います。
それなりの4人以上の家族・グループ、特に比較的小さな子供のいる方にとっては、プライベートチャーターにする価値は十分あると思います。
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| Packages: | 3時間 |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/02 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/07/31 |
Reviewed by: Andy
Everything is as promised. Great and professional crew. Catamaran was very clean and safe. Beverages always available at no additional cost (except alcoholic). Good continental breakfast and lunch with extra snacks available. We always felt safe and secure both onboard and while snorkeling. Crew added historical info throughout the trip. I highly recommend this trip.
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/09/13 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/11 |
Reviewed by: Jim Nicholl
We prefer private charters and snorkeling trips and Aloha Kona Tours did not disappoint. We had such a good time on our Sept 9th cruise we booked a night time Manta Ray cruise the very next day!
On our first cruise we got to see turtles and dolphins and actually got to snorkel with a 25 foot whale shark. It was outstanding! The Captain is excellent and the Crew is very friendly and knowledgeable! The Captain was accommodating to our request for our outing to make the trip very personalized.
On our second night Manta Ray cruise we enjoyed a stunning sunset cruise and tour of the city from the water. Then we snorkeled with the Manta Rays for about 30 minutes. They have all the gear and the Crew was so accommodating. Three of us got in the water and swam with the Rays and our fourth person was a little shy but the Crew made sure she got to see the Rays up close without leaving the boat.
Both trips were truly unforgettable and amazing! The boat is beautiful and comfortable.
Thanks Aloha Kona Tours,
Jim, Jodi, Debye and Larry
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| Packages: | 4-Hour Private Morning Snorkel Charter (up to 6 passengers) |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/09/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/09 |
Reviewed by: TRK
A smooth sail and comfortable ride. The crew was very professional and knowledgeable. I didn't think I'd want a pool noodle...but get the pool noodle. It helps alot unless you plan to free dive. The food and drinks were good and sandwiches are fine for a boat trip. Don't expect fine dining. Plenty of room on board, even if you feel it might fill up with guests. The crew was there to keep the boat clean as well. I'd recommend getting there early for parking, as there's only street parking and you might have to walk to get to the launch. Beautiful boat. Enjoyed the trip! Thanks!
Aloha,
Mahalo Nui Loa for sharing your experience with us! We do also agree with taking as many pool noodles as you would like. It's called a "vacation" for a reason. We hope to see you on your next visit to the Big Island! Until then, A Hui Hou and safe travels!
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/08/28 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/08/02 |
Reviewed by: Haru
It was amazing!
The service was excellent.
Their experience and knowledge were abundant, and I learned a lot.
I will definitely rely on them again next time.
最高でした!
サービス内容が素晴らしいです。
ご経験、知識も豊富で勉強にもなりました。
次もまたお世話になります。
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| Packages: | 4時間 |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/08/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/08/07 |
Reviewed by: Jess
Our guides were wonderful! They were knowledgeable and very friendly which made our experience that much better. The snorkeling spots were on point, and they give clear and concise directions on how to proceed at each location. Our group was small and intimate which I found ideal.
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| Packages: | 4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/08/19 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/08/17 |
Reviewed by: Laurie H
I went on the deluxe snorkeling trip with my husband and five of my young adult children. We all loved it! Captain Steve did a fantastic job showing us sea caves and other interesting sites. We ended up in the midst of a pod of dolphins and saw some pilot whales. For all of us it was our first time snorkeling and Captain Steve and his crew made our first experience incredible. They even helped my son who can’t swim get comfortable with snorkeling using a life vest and noodle so by the second snorkeling stop he was a pro. We saw so many fish, eels, and a few sea turtles. I truly can’t say enough good things about the crew and the whole experience. One of the best of my life! I will definitely return!
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| Packages: | 4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/08/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/08/13 |
Reviewed by: kkk
I couldn't see any dolphins at all; in fact, I'm not sure if they were even included in the tour. We just ended up snorkeling for two hours.
イルカは全く見れなかった、むしろツアーに含まられていたか怪しい。
2時間シュノーケリングして終わりました。
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/08/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/08/06 |
Reviewed by: Steve
The whole crew was outstanding. So helpful, knowledgeable, courteous, personable. We had a great time. Thanks so much to Seaquest!!! Highly recommend.
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| Packages: | 4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/07/30 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/07/28 |
Reviewed by: Reif family
Friendly, attentive and courteous crew! Good selection of beverages and fresh fruits and snacks were good (kid friendly). I liked that I saw the crew wiping down all the rails and high touch surfaces after the last group/ before we boarded. Saw some dolphins and plenty of fish, and a couple of flying fish! The crew and captain were very informative about the reef and preserving the reef life. One member even informed a kayaker that he was too close to the reef and could damage it. Will book with them again our next round.
Aloha Reif family,
We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful day out on the water. We look forward to making more memories with your family in the near future!
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| Packages: | Afternoon Snorkel Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/07/11 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/07/09 |
Reviewed by: Ashton H
We got to see a turtle and a pod of like 15 dolphins we learned were currently in a half conscious state and they can basically auto-swim!
Boat was a little crowded with the kids on board. Would prefer an option with adults only as they were a little much for our honeymoon.
Overall great time! The cooled lava caves were very cool and go up all inside the big island!
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| Packages: | 5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/07/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/06/30 |
Reviewed by: Grace
An incredible adventure for the family and I! I knew I wanted to see the Captain Cook memorial but I never anticipated such an immersive aquatic experience.
Mahalo Nui Loa for the wonderful review. We hope to see you on your next visit to the Big Island!
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/06/21 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/06/16 |
Reviewed by: Kevin H
This trip was a wonderful introduction to the great snorkeling in two of the bays on the west coast of Hawaii. Our guide provided all the gear we needed for the water. Our guide was friendly, patient, and knowledgeable about local sea life and the culture and history of the coast we explored. As a family, we were novices at snorkeling but our guide stepped us through getting into and out of the water and directed us to the best areas of the bays to explore. Right out of dock, a pod of spinner dolphins crossed in front of the boat! Flying fish appeared along our route and there were many species of fish and many black sea urchins in both bays. The snacks hit the spot and the cultural history of the bays and coastline were very interesting. After the excursion, we felt we were ready to set off on our own snorkling adventure!
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| Packages: | Kealakekua Bay Snorkel & Dolphin Watching Tour |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/06/19 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/06/17 |
Reviewed by: Michelle
Length of trip perfect for first time snorkelers (12 yr old children). Crew knowledgeable, attentive and fun.
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/06/11 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/06/07 |
Reviewed by: Patricia Ponce
First time in Hawaii and snorkeling chose the best crew to experience this adventure with. The whole crew was awesome very knowledgeable and the nicest people I have ever come across in the whole world. Captain Eddie help me with my dizziness advice best way to feel better so I could continue to enjoy our trip. Loved the whole experience and I would recommend this crew to anyone and everyone if they truly want to enjoy their trip.
Aloha Patricia,
Mahalo for your wonderful recommendation! We are so glad to hear you enjoyed the company of the crew. We hope to have the pleasure of seeing you in the near future!
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with Lunch - Group of 6 or More [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/05/11 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/05/09 |
Reviewed by: Bruce L
Our family did the Captain Cook snorkel trip in early April. The boat takes less than 15 people (11 on our trip), it is a small but stable inflatable type. The water was a little choppy for our trip, but not enough to prevent the go-ahead. We had to hang on as the boat jumped and rolled its way through the waves making hte journey unexpectedly exciting. We had a relaxed, informative and personable captain and one other crew member. The boat zipped out towards the Captain Cook monument area which has excellent snorkeling. Pretty much everyone on the boat was snorkeling for the first time. Sea Quest supplied full snorkel gear including prescription masks for one of our party. Inflatable Snorkel vests and pool noodles were also made available for those who prefer a little extra buoyancy. We stopped a couple of times on the way to check out a large pod of spinners dolphin and for an overview of the Big Island as viewed from out at sea. Once we got to Capt. Cook, we had about 1.5 hours to snorkel. The snorkeling was outstanding - clear calm water, tons of fish & coral. Sea Quest supplied snacks and drinks. Everyone had a great time and a lasting fun family memory was made. Great work Sea Quest!
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/04/16 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/04/07 |
Reviewed by: Michael T.
Skylar and Aerial were awesome. The trip was perfect. We were even fortunate enough to see a hammer head shark on our way back. These guys do it right!!!! Highly recommend booking with them as me and my family will remember this for a lifetime.
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| Packages: | 5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/04/16 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/04/14 |
Reviewed by: Okiman60
The Fairwind crew is very professional, for they stress safety and they are helpful. In addition, the captain highlighted dolphin sightings and the historical information regarding ancient Hawaiian culture. He also gave facts about the Captain Cook Memorial.
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| Packages: | Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [3.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/04/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/04/07 |
Reviewed by: Robin
This was a great snorkel adventure. We made 3 stops and saw tons of beautiful coral and underwater creatures. It was a long half-day, but it went by so quickly. Would definitely do this again.
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| Packages: | 5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/04/06 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/04/02 |
Reviewed by: Shelly
The crew was great, helpful and fun. The little bit of history was enjoyable. We loved seeing the different marine life. The water wasn't too cold either. Our ride back was fantastic, Thanks Loren 1, 2 and Alex.
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/03/30 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/03/28 |
Reviewed by: Ren
For a family coming from the snow, we didn’t know what to expect. We didn’t even know if we could snorkel! The crew was super helpful and fun. All of our fears were for not. We had the time of our lives! We were treated to historic stories to go along with our boat ride, the snorkel equipment was clean and high quality, the sights were incredible! The perfect adventure for beginners! Highly recommended!
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/03/20 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/02/22 |
Reviewed by: Wendy
Bethany could not have been more accommodating and welcoming when we first arrived followed by a tremendous day at sea with Jill ! She gave an amazing tour of the coastline sharing history, " fun facts" and plentiful opportunity to see lava caves , blowholes, and awesome snorkeling! We saw a baby whale with her mama thanks to Jill's sharp eye followed by a diving turtle and then some dolphin at our final stop. Couldn't have asked for a better day that Jill and Sea Quest gave!
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| Packages: | 5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/03/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/03/07 |
Reviewed by: Laurie
The sailboat was new and beautiful. The crew were knowledgeable and very helpful. They let us do some whale watching and fish chasing and we had a fantastic time! We will definitely take this trip again but next tome we will do the 5 hour.
Aloha Laurie, Mahalo Nui Loa for joining us. We are so happy to hear you had a wonderful time. We look forward to your next visit!
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| Packages: | Afternoon Snorkel Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/02/06 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/02/04 |
Reviewed by: Colleen
Captain Steve made our experience very special. We stopped in two snorkel spots, saw some caves close up, had a nice snack and lunch. Were told neat things about the island and the locations we snorkeled at.
The waters were a little choppy. We felt very safe with Steves driving. The tour states it is not good for someone with any physical issues. There was some bouncing around on the boat, so we would agree with that.
Professional Company. They offered a few different types of snorkeling tours. Pick one-- you won't be disappointed.
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/02/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/01/25 |
Reviewed by: Jane
Such a welcoming crew and staff at Sea Quest. They worked through changes easily and made sure everyone was comfortable. Not only was the snorkeling great with tons of fish and coral but you also get several stops along the ride to look at lava tubes, caves, and larger wildlife. Very knowledgable crew and great spot to visit for both beginner and advanced swimmers/snorkelers.
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| Packages: | 4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/01/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/01/15 |
Reviewed by: SusanB
Wonderful, cheerful, professional staff. Lovely, clean NEW boat. This trip was a thumbs up. We were greeted by Joshua who was happy and briefed us well. On board were Asia, Jesse and Capt. Mike Morgan. This team worked well together to keep us entertained, fed, schooled on area history and safe. All of the gear was in good condition, the food was healthy and served efficiently using pandemic protocols. We were clearly informed of where to snorkel and attended by one or two employees while in the water. We were able to make part of the trip back under sail which was a silent treat. This is a top snorkel area on the island and the Sea Paradise trip is top notch! Top this off with seeing spinner dolphins and five different whales ….. a wonderful way to spend the morning.
Aloha Susan, Mahalo Nui Loa for taking the time to share your beautiful photos. We hope to see you for more adventures soon!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/01/13 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/01/11 |
Reviewed by: Tanya L.
The captain and the assistant are very nice and knowledgeable. We saw a few amazing sea caves and lava tubes on the way to the snorkeling stops. Saw beautiful fishes at both stops and the 2nd stop (Captain Cook's Monument) is best and our GoPro caught awesome videos of those beautiful fishes.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 4-hour Deluxe Morning Adventure (2 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/01/10 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/01/07 |
Reviewed by: Leslie
Captain Tony and his crew were so wonderful! They were funny and so informative. I would definitely do it again! They were so sweet to our two year old who was part of the snorkeling also. Make sure you take cash to tip them well because they definitely deserve it! The whole trip the captain and his trip hangout with everyone and cut up fresh fruit for everyone while serving drinks and making sure everyone is comfortable and has what they need. Definitely one of our top favorite things we did on the Big Island
Aloha Leslie,
Mahalo for taking the time to review us and sharing your wonderful pictures! We hope to have the pleasure of you joining us on your next visit to the islands :)
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| Packages: | Afternoon Snorkel Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2021/09/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2021/08/30 |
Reviewed by: Vincents
So much fun. The location was beautiful, the crew was friendly and the service was great...oh and the plant based menu was delicious. Seeing dolphins made the day. I learned that orcas pass through Hawaiian waters and as a result the dolphins were swimming in and we were lucky enough to see them. Would have been fun to have paddleboards. We all loved it! Thank you.
Thank you for taking the time to let us know about your experience! We hope to see you again in the future. Leah
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2021/08/30 |
| Activity Date: | 2021/08/28 |
Reviewed by: Sarah h
It was an amazing snorkeling adventure. My husband and I have never gone snorkeling the crew was amazing. They were helpful and very funny. I suggest doing this. You get to see many different types of animals and sights
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 5-hour South Kona Expedition with Lunch (3 Snorkel Stops) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2021/08/23 |
| Activity Date: | 2021/08/21 |
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Aloha Andy,
Mahalo for choosing Sea Paradise for your snorkeling adventures! We are happy to hear of your feedback and recommendation. We hope to have the pleasure of you joining us in the near future!