Reviewed by: Desiree
I booked the Manta Ray Night Snorkel Canoe for my 12 year daughter & I. This totally exceeded my expectations! I still cannot believe how many mantas we saw & how close they were. Our crew took great care of us & had a great sense of humor.
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/19 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/17 |
Reviewed by: Allyson
We had a group of 4 and knew we wanted to do a helicopter tour and this place knocked it out of the part the pilot (Wade) was amazing and all of the staff was great at communicating! They make it convenient by being able to call or text and ensure that you will be comfortable before going up in the air! Would definitely do this again if we ever return to the area! Mahalo!
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| Packages: | 60-min Flight |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/28 |
Reviewed by: Erin
In addition to a wonderful manta ray sighting experience, we were also treated to a spinner dolphin show on the way. The crew were friendly, knowledgeable and great with our 7-year old. We really appreciated the smaller boat for a more intimate and personal experience. The hot chocolate on the way back was a really nice touch! Would absolutely recommend Iruka and we would go again with them next time we are back in Hawaii.
Just be patient with the sightings! We didn't get much activity with the mantas until right at the end and it was totally worth it.
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/15 |
Reviewed by: Paul
Well worth the money since getting up to the site is nearly impossible logistically for a rental car. More importantly, our guide, Gage, was so exceptionally knowledgeable on everything from astronomy to Hawaii geography.
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| Packages: | Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/13 |
Reviewed by: Rue
I was anxious about renting a car for the first time, but I arrived without getting lost. The weather was clear, and the view was fantastic. The staff were all cheerful and friendly. They took photos for each group, and the cows that were around made for great memories. I'm in my 60s, but it was totally fine.
初めてのレンタカーで不安でしたが、迷わず到着できました。
快晴で見晴らしも最高でした。スタッフさんたちは皆明るく親切です。
グループごとに写真を撮ってくださいます。ところどころにいる牛さんたちも写ったりしていい思い出になりました。60代ですが全然大丈夫です。
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| Packages: | 1.5時間プラン |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/17 |
Reviewed by: アカエ
Due to the decrease in Japanese tourists during the COVID-19 pandemic, there were only two of us Japanese among about 20 people on the same tour (most were from the mainland United States). The guide was Japanese, but the explanations during the transfer were in English. However, they provided us with individual guidance in Japanese, so we were able to enjoy the experience without any issues. When watching the sunset from Mauna Kea, it was colder than I had imagined. They do lend out down jackets, but depending on the season, I recommend dressing warmly in advance.
The stargazing was amazing. As soon as we got off the van, I was moved by the breathtaking starry sky that I had never seen before. We were able to see Saturn through a telescope, and there were opportunities for photography as well. I'm really glad I participated. If you want to see the stars beautifully, I recommend checking the lunar phase before joining.
コロナ禍で日本人観光客が減少した為、同じツアーの役20人中日本人は私たち2人でした(他はアメリカ本土の方が多かったです)。ガイドの方は日本人ですが、移動中の説明は英語でした。私たちには個別に日本語でガイドしてくださったので、何も問題なく過ごすことが出来ました。マウナケア山からサンセットを見る際は、想像以上に寒かったです。ダウンを貸して頂けますが、時期によっては事前に厚着していく事をおすすめします。
そして、星空観測は最高でした。バンを降りた途端に今まで見たこと無い満点の星空に感動しました。望遠鏡では土星も見せていただき、写真撮影もありで、本当に参加して良かったです。星を綺麗に見たい場合は月齢を確認しての参加をお勧めします。
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| Packages: | 基本プラン ※2023年3月までのご参加 |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/18 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Stefan waited after others had left, and got us the most amazing photos and memories. Thank you to Stefan for caring for the guests.
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/10 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/31 |
Reviewed by: emi
I was able to enjoy snorkeling in two spacious locations with excellent visibility! There were plenty of fish, and I was thrilled.
There were several types of soft drinks available for unlimited refills, and breakfast included fruit and pastries, while lunch consisted of sandwiches with a choice of fillings, which were delicious. Chips were also served as a snack. The service was great, with sunscreen provided as well.
There were about 20 participants, and my husband and I were the only Japanese people. Naturally, everything was in English, so I couldn't understand most of the explanations. However, the staff taught us how to use the snorkel through gestures.
Overall, snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay was beautiful and amazing! I highly recommend it if you're going to the Big Island.
少人数でゆったり二箇所、透明度抜群な所でシュノーケリングを楽しめました!魚も沢山いて感激しました。
ソフトドリンクは何種類かあり飲み放題、朝食はフルーツとデニッシュ、昼食はサンドイッチで具材も選ばせてもらえおいしかったです。おやつにポテチもでました。日焼け止めも置いてあったりとサービスはよかったです。
参加者は20人ぐらいいて、日本人は私達夫婦だけでした。当然すべて英語なので、説明もほとんどわからなかったです。ただスタッフはジェスチャーでシュノーケルの使い方を教えてくれました。
とにかくケアラケクア湾でのシュノーケリングは綺麗で最高でした!ハワイ島に行くならオススメです。
Aloha,
Thank you very much for your recommendation. We hope to see you on your next visit to the Big Island!
Aloha,
Mahalo Nui Loa for your recommendation. We hope to see you on your next visit to the Big Island!
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| Packages: | 08:30出港 |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/01 |
Reviewed by: Laura Simmons
It was a fantastic tour! From the ease of meeting the guide at a local pick up point, the his knowledge of the islands, the geography, and of course the telescopes and sky, to the use of parkas, pants and gloves... it was a wonderful experience! We went on an almost full moon night so only the brightest of stars were visible, but we were still able to see Saturn and Jupiter through their telescopes. Dress warm... and have a great time!
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/06 |
Reviewed by: Jocelyn
Stefan was a great guide and we loved how he made a concerted effort to make sure that we got some amazing photos with the sunset and stars.
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/31 |
Reviewed by: ココママ
I was really anxious because I didn't understand the explanation before riding in English, but once I got on and started walking, everything worked out. Once I got used to it, I was able to spend the best time enjoying the wonderful scenery.
乗馬前の説明は英語で全くわからなく、不安でしたが、乗って歩きだしたらなんとかなりました
慣れてきたらすごい素敵な景色をみながら最高な時間を過ごすことができました。
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| Packages: | 2.5時間プラン |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/06 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/04 |
Reviewed by: Pat
Seeing Mantra rays glide gracefully beneath you was a highlight of my trip to Hawaii. I highly recommend Iruka.
Aloha Pat,
We are so happy the crew was able to provide a memorable experience for your group, and all returning customers receive a 20% repeater discount. We hope to see you again!
Mahalo,
Team Iruka Hawaii
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/12 |
Reviewed by: Anna
First timers snorkeling, we have so much fun and our guides very friendly and helpful
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/16 |
Reviewed by: Cathy Barbieri
I must admit I almost didn’t book this tour because of the duration. I’m so glad we did though!! This tour was a fantastic blend experiences. Our guide was super knowledgeable and kept us engaged in conversation just enough. When we had stops to explore the coffee farm, black sand beach, lava tube, nighttime lava flow. None of the stops felt rushed or lingered too long. I would highly recommend this. It was one of the best experiences we had on our trip.
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| Packages: | Deluxe Volcano Tour |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/10 |
Reviewed by: YAKYUYASAN
First of all, I would like to thank Mr. Stefan Weich. I have participated in various tours in the past, but none have been as good as this one. I was impressed by the attentiveness and clear explanations. Above all, as a photographer, he took wonderful photos, which will be a great keepsake. Thank you very much.
先ずは、Mr.Stefan Weichに感謝しています、過去色々ツアーに参加しましたが、今回ほど良かったツアーは無かったです、気配り・明朗な説明等、感激しました、何よりも写真家でもあり、素晴らしい写真を撮って頂き、非常に記念に残ります、ありがとうございました。
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| Packages: | 基本プラン ※2023年3月までのご参加 |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/01 |
Reviewed by: Willner
Had a fantastic time doing the afternoon snorkel. The crew was helpful and shared interesting facts and stories about the island as we sailed. We had plenty of time to snorkel. The boat was comfortable as well with plenty of spaces to sit in the shade or sun. We also loved the fresh water showers to rinse off coming out of the ocean. We will definitely be booking with Sea Paradise again in the future.
Aloha Willner,
Mahalo for joining us. We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your time. We look forward to you seeing you all on your next visit!
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| Packages: | Afternoon Snorkel Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/22 |
Reviewed by: Hilohannah
Have done this tour 5 years ago with a different vendor. Was much better with other tour group but did not recall who it was when I booked this trip. Things I did not like about this tour:
1. Was not notified I could have been picked up in Kona. So we drove over an hour when we did not have to. Another couple drove all the way to the visitor center for the same reason 2. Dinner was marginal at best. 3. Star viewing from the visitor center parking lot?? Are you kidding me? Why? Light pollution, less clear skies..what a joke. I lay that blame on the tour guide, Maka. 4. Guide is not passionate about astronomy but he can be a good guide at times. Sadly, as the night wore on so did his personality. 5. Gloves were only proffered when a man complained. Hand them out with the coats.
Bottom line: do the tour but with a different group.
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| Packages: | Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/11/01 |
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: Anish
Dylan was a fantastic guide! He put an interesting spin on the whole tour, and he taught us a lot about the geology of the island as a whole. Every part of the tour was great. The coffee farm had a wonderful view, the bakery was great, the beach was very unique, and the volcano + hike were really cool. The fact that they'd brought a telescope made it even easier to see the laval.
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| Packages: | Deluxe Volcano Tour |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/11/02 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/14 |
Reviewed by: けんた
The original schedule had to be changed due to bad weather, and we had to turn back at the Onizuka Visitor Center, but I was very grateful for the option to reschedule to another day when there was availability. The sunset view from the summit was absolutely stunning and very impressive. Additionally, the stargazing tour at another location was not only beautiful because of the clear night sky, but the guide's explanations of the constellations were easy to understand and very helpful.
当初の日程は、悪天候のためにオニズカビジターセンターで引き返すことになりましたが、空きがあった別の日に振り替えてもらえた対応はとてもありがたかったです。
山頂から眺めるサンセットはとても素晴らしく、見ごたえがありました。また、別の場所に移動しての星空観測ツアーも、星空がきれいであることはもちろんですが、ガイドさんによる星座の説明がわかりやすくてよかったです。
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| Packages: | 基本プラン ※2023年3月までのご参加 |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/28 |
Reviewed by: Lindsay
Very friendly staff and fun facts about manta rays throughout the snorkel trip. We got to see 4 different mantas throughout our trip and they come up so close to you it’s amazing. 10/10 would recommend.
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| Packages: | Night Manta Discovery Adventure |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/24 |
Reviewed by: Lea
Hands down a memorable experience. I absolutely loved it and want to go back ASAP. I went in September and I still can't stop thinking about it. The parking was right in front of the loading area. The crew was welcoming right away. They got us set up with gear and even let us use our own gear if we brought. They had snacks and beverages on board. We got to watch the sky light on fire for sunset as we sailed out to where the mantas were. Lots of other companies were around in the harbor as well but the crew made sure to stay a safe distance away without disrupting the other experiences. And !!for the main event!! we saw SIX manta rays! Maybe more. They were so beautiful and flipping right underneath us. The captain also shared some knowledge atop the floating mat while we snorkeled so we could hear her stories while appreciating the creatures. The mantas stuck around the whole time. When it was time to head back in, the crew treated us to hot chocolate. They were also happy to share footage they took during the experience. I fully appreciated their generosity. I would definitely go back and do this again with Iruka! And a BIG MAHALO to HawaiiActivities.com and the Hawaii Reef Hero contest for making this possible for me and my friends <3
Aloha Lea,
Mahalo nui for sharing your kind words and amazing photos of your experience with us! We are so happy the crew was able to provide a memorable experience for your group, and all returning customers receive a 20% repeater discount. We hope to see you again!
Mahalo,
Team Iruka Hawaii
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/05 |
Reviewed by: CLK
We had the greatest time on this tour! Ocean Encounters has the best crew and they made it so much fun! They were super nice and very knowledgeable! Not only that but the mantas put on a great show for us!! Highly recommend!! Mahalo Ocean Encounters!!!
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/25 |
Reviewed by: Alejandro Sanchez
This was an awesome first time experience for my wife and I. Brent and Jesse were great at having us engage with them in the activities and provided safety instructions to a tee that made it very clear and easy to understand and follow. Jesse provided us with some history along the way that made for fun facts. Brent did a great job at making me feel comfortable jumping off the cliff which was my very first time doing any type of cliff jumping and super glad I did! Snorkeling was super fun with clear and warm water. Would definitely do it again and highly recommend! Oh, and special shout out to the owner Mike for making the booking process swift and easy! Thank you guys!!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/01 |
Reviewed by: Sharon
Had a wonderful experience at the top of Mauna Kea watching the sunset, followed by star gazing at a private location.
Very accommodating, lots of pics taken for us and very informative about the dormant volcano as well as Hawaii and the observatories. Coats and mitts were available when the temp dropped with the sunset.
The choice was ours to make as to pics we wanted taken, where and when to have our dinner snack and what we wanted to see in the night sky.
A few improvements would be to have a more comfortable van. This van was not comfortable to ride in for the trip to the top and back. Additionally, the photography equipment and additional telescope equipment should be added and improved.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/14 |
Reviewed by: Jessica
It was a nice experience. The service was outstanding as the whole crew was very polite and always ready to assist. The ride itself was a bit rough.. not sure off it was just on that day due to the wind and current being strong or the captain was driving too fast lol.. but I did get a bit dizzy. The food Wass tasty and the views, info and music were also on point.
Mahalo for joining us! We are glad that you enjoyed outstanding service! Thank you for the five star review and kind words! Best wishes to you and yours!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Dinner Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/22 |
Reviewed by: Greg
This experience is beyond human words to describe. We had an absolutely perfect night with a crescent moon that set shortly after we got set up. The Milky Way was more spectacular than we could have imagined. James’ knowledge of what we were looking at was top notch. There were a couple of personal disappointments and cons but they do not diminish the rating of the experience.
I had expected some serious telescopes that would be used. James had a top end mount and camera with some powerful lenses but when it came to looking at Jupiter and Saturn, I get bigger and better images with my homemade 6” reflector. I was really wondering if he was using his equipment to show us Andromeda and what I think he said was the Dumbbell nebula or if he was showing us stock photos. He homed in on those two objects very quickly for a setup that was merely put down and “kinda” leveled.
The other comment is about the cost. James is an expert and one expects to pay for expertise. But for an adventure that does not include pickup except for about a mile from the destination and has no major equipment like a submarine that the Atlantis has to maintain, the price seems high. Especially since the included photos are about worthless, you are forced to purchase the full resolution package if you want to share your photos with anything other than your phone.
That being said, experiencing God’s creation like that was amazing!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Stargazing Tour - Starting times between 07:00 PM - 11:30 PM |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/23 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/28 |
Reviewed by: Becca
We had a great time on the boat. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable and it was the perfect activity for a group with kids and grandparents. Everyone got to see fish and turtles up close in a way that was easy and enjoyable for a group not up for snorkeling
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/23 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/21 |
Reviewed by: 西 脇
The weather was nice, and it was my first time horseback riding, but thanks to the smart horse, I was able to enjoy it safely and securely. The riding time was sufficient. The instructions were only in English!
お天気も良く
初めての乗馬でしたが
利口な馬のおかげで安心・安全に楽しめました
乗馬時間は充分でした
説明は英語のみ!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 1.5時間プラン |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/21 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/18 |
Reviewed by: Pauline
This is a must do. It was fantastic. Our pilot was Wade and he was very
informative
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 60-min Flight |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/20 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/11 |
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Reply from activity provider
An unexpected error has occurred. Please go back to the previous page and try again, or wait a few minutes and try once again.
Aloha Erin,
Thank you for the positive comments about our team, we're glad your group felt safe and satisfied! We do offer a repeater discount of 20% off, so please keep us in mind for future travel plans.
Mahalo,
Iruka Hawaii