Reviewed by: AJH
Captain and crew of Ocean Encounters 1 dove in ahead of guests, made a plan, and navigated us there. Honestly, we had a great viewing spot and several other boats' guests were eager to move into our spot upon our exiting. Boats are staggered and have a neighborly way of communicating where/when/how each group will be staggered but I would have been disappointed to be in one of the peripheral groups. These are wild animals, so no telling what each evening will look like, but was glad to have a captain who led the charge.
Tips: It is a bit of a rough ride for 20 mins out and approx 20 minutes back. If you are someone who suffers from carsickness or seasickness, highly recommend treating for that before you leave. We had 2 of 30 guests puking over the sides. I gave my carsick kiddo dramamine about an hour before-- no issues.
Do have inexperienced family members practice snorkeling ahead of tour so that they can spend the entire 45 minutes head down in the water enjoying the fish and rays and the learning is done in a pool or bay ahead of time. There were zero swimming skills necessary on this trip but knowing how to calmly enjoy breathing through a snorkel for an extended period was the difference between guests who really enjoyed and guests who didn't. There was a surfboard with handles that the group held on to, which was pulled into position by the guides.
Do warn your kiddos that these rays are HUGE. My youngest expected small 3-4 foot rays like we have in our aquarium and was initially very surprised (terrified) by the 12-15 wingspan on some of these beautiful creatures. They got right up in our personal bubble/faces/immediately underneath bellies and legs so do be ready for up-close amazing experience.
Do not bring a bunch of stuff/items as they end up dripped on and/or in the way. If the weather is warm all you need is shoes that are okay getting wet/dripped on, and a towel. They provided water and light packaged snacks on the return trip.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/07/19 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/07/16 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Watching these huge sized manta rays glide beneath us was surreal! Best experience hands down.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2025/07/14 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/06/11 |
Reviewed by: Lago Lobster
The best thing we did in Hawaii. The manta rays were so close & there were so many. Cannot recommend enough.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Night Manta Discovery Adventure |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/06/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/06/17 |
Reviewed by: EWJames
This team is top notch, they took us to a great location. They provided a wealth of information on mantaray's while we prepared for the event. We had so much fun.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Night Manta Discovery Adventure |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/06/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/06/12 |
Reviewed by: EWJames
We had so much fun on this tour. Really great snorkeling. We found eels, puffer fish, and even an octopus.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [3.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/06/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/06/14 |
Reviewed by: Chrissy
From the captain to his crew to the boat, it was all perfect. We had the perfect day even with a 17 month old with us. The crew and captain Dante were so accommodating and welcoming. We would definitely recommend this tour for your family.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [3.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Cloudy |
| Posted on: | 2025/06/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/06/12 |
Reviewed by: 68-73夫婦
I splurged on a helicopter ride, thinking I might never come back to the Big Island again. I was moved by the breathtaking scenery that can only be seen from a helicopter, such as valleys, cliffs, and the traces of flowing lava. It was also great that I could ask questions and talk with the pilot through the microphone.
もう2度とハワイ島まで来られないだろうと、奮発して搭乗しました。
普通では見られない渓谷や岸壁、溶岩が流れた跡など、ヘリコプターならではの風景に感動しました。パイロットさんとマイクを通して質問したりお話し出来たのも良かったです。
If I had splurged a little more and taken the passenger seat, it might have been even more fun. I took so many photos and videos that before I knew it, my smartphone ran out of battery. Let's be caref
あともう少し奮発して助手席にすればもっと楽しかったかも。
写真やビデオを撮りすぎて気づいたらスマホの電源が切れてしまいました、気をつけましょう!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Weather: | Cloudy |
| Posted on: | 2025/06/04 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/05/28 |
Reviewed by: Angela Reed
The crew were all very friendly and full of information about the area. The food was good and the extra slides and diving platform didn’t interfere with serious snorkeling.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Weather: | Cloudy |
| Posted on: | 2025/05/29 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/05/27 |
Reviewed by: Ralph and Landon
Planned this trip for over a year to go to Hawaii and all my boy would talk about was swimming with the dolphins. So for his 9th birthday I gave him the best birthday gift ever is what he told me with the biggest hug I’ve ever gotten from him.
Make sure you give yourself extra time for parking.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 30-Minute Deluxe Encounter - Ages 5 & Up |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/05/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/04/27 |
Reviewed by: CAR
Incredible day with an excellent crew for a fabulous day of boating on the Big Island of Hawaii! The crew was fantastic and so informative!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 3-Hour Standard Private Charter Package (up to 6 participants) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/05/16 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/05/14 |
Reviewed by: アキ
I experienced it on May 7, 2025.
1. I was very satisfied with the location, the pilot, and the staff. I highly recommend it. 100 points.
2. Since my seat was on the left side, all the highlights were on the right side of the journey. The aircraft blocked my view, and I couldn't take the photos I wanted, which was disappointing. I requested the pilot to make a turn, but it was only accommodated once. Minus 40 points.
2025年5月7日体験しました。
1、体感は、ロケーション、パイロット、スタッフのみなさんには大満足でした。
おすすめです。100点
2、席が左サイドだった為、見所は全行程右サイドで、隣りの人越し、機体が邪魔になり、せっかくのロケーションが写真も思うように撮れず、心が折れましたよ
パイロットに旋回をリクエストしたがその1回切りの対応でした。
マイナス40点。
The front row seats are the best!
前例の席が最高ですよ。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/05/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/05/07 |
Reviewed by: Kara
We were pre-jittered, but for no reason as this was the calmest experience I could of imagined!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Standard Package: Moonlight Manta Snorkel (Seasonal) |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2025/05/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/04/10 |
Reviewed by: Gymielee
We went snorkeling and saw turtles! It was nice to have a guide to show and teach us. We had a great time!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Hilo Beach Snorkel – Sea Turtle Lagoon and Black Sand Beach |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Weather: | Cloudy |
| Posted on: | 2025/04/22 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/04/20 |
Reviewed by: VR
The enthusiasm from our private guide was fabulous. She was very sensitive to the 6/7 and the 5 yr olds reactions and adjusted to make the experience so so special.
A remarkable experience.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 30-Minute Deluxe Encounter - Ages 5 & Up |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/04/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/04/10 |
Reviewed by: とみぃ
I was the only Japanese person participating, but I had a great time! Snacks and soft drinks are free. The leaf was just average.
参加した中で日本人は私だけでしたが、楽しめました!スナック菓子とソフトドリンク無料です。リーフはまぁ普通ですね( * ॑꒳ ॑*)
A basic level of English is necessary. It might be tough if you can't swim.
最低限の英語力は必要ですね。泳ぎができないとツラいかも知れません。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 14:00出港 |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/04/02 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/03/31 |
Reviewed by: Tee R
A little relaxing and adventure. Crew was very friendly and fun. Always felt safe in and out of the water. Meals were good. Would definitely recommend and we would go again!
Thanks so much for joining us and taking the time to share your experience! We are stoked to know that you felt safe, that you enjoyed the service and that you'll be recommending us! Until we meet again; we wish you all of the best!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/29 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/03/09 |
Reviewed by: Kara
we were nervous at first swimming at night, but we had a wonderful time and would do it again!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/22 |
Reviewed by: Melanie
Hosts are great, very friendly and shared historical information at sites along the way. We saw a mother and baby whale as well as hammerhead sharks on the trips to and from. The sea life at the snorkeling site were abundant and beautiful.
Highly recommend this tour above others.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/03/17 |
Reviewed by: なお
It was my first time on a helicopter, and it was exciting. The pilot provided explanations in Japanese, which was helpful. Well, since it was volcanic activity, it couldn't be helped, but I didn't get to see the red lava of Kilauea. Also, it wasn't a landing tour to the waterfall, but I was hoping to see it, so I was a bit disappointed.
ヘリコプターの初搭乗なこともありますが、エキサイティングでした。パイロットさんが日本語でも解説してくれたので、助かりました。まあ、火山活動なので仕方ないですが、キラウエアの赤い溶岩は見られませんでした。あと、滝への着陸ツアーではありませんが、見られると思っていたので少し残念です。
I think it would be better if it were the passenger seat. When someone outside the group rides in the co-pilot seat, their clothing and behavior can affect the comfort and visibility for the people in
やはり助手席だったらと思います。グループ外の人がパイロット助手席に同乗した場合、その人の服装、振る舞いで、後席の人は快適性、外の見易さに影響アリです。ガイダンス通り暗めの服装をして欲しいです。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Attended as: | Families |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/28 |
Reviewed by: なお
The explanations are in English, so it's tough with limited language skills, but I managed somehow (^ - ^)
Anyway, the dolphins are adorable!
Playing, swimming, and feeding them was a valuable experience.
説明は英語なので、半端な語力では辛いけど、まあ、なんとかなります(^-^)
とにかく、イルカはかわいいです!
一緒に遊び、泳ぎ、エサやり。貴重な体験でした。
Even if you're not very good at English, you should challenge yourself. You'll manage somehow. If you care about dolphins and closely observe the instructor's actions, you'll understand where it's oka
多少、英語が苦手でもチャレンジすべきです。なんとかなります。イルカを大事に思い、インストラクターの動作をよく見れば触って良いところがわかります。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | イルカと泳ぐ!エンカウンター<シュノーケリング付き/30分> |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/03/02 |
Reviewed by: Retired&spending$$itall
Excellent crew. Very knowledgeable and made sure everyone had a positive experience. All ages can do this experience. We saw humpback whales on the boat ride to snorkeling and a pod of dolphins joined us in the bay while snorkeling. It was a very fun experience and I would highly recommend it.
Do it, you won’t be disappointed.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [3.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/03/01 |
Reviewed by: LaTisha
Such an amazing experience! The handlers were well educated on the dolphins and it was great
Please book this experience! It is well worth it
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 30-Minute Deluxe Encounter - Ages 10 & Up |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/03/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2024/10/20 |
Reviewed by: Megan from NY
Excellent trainers really made it a personalized experience for everyone!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 30-Minute Deluxe Encounter - Ages 10 & Up |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/28 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/26 |
Reviewed by: Whitney S
Our experience on the boat was fantastic! The vessel was clean, well-equipped, and had everything we needed for a comfortable trip. The staff was incredibly friendly and went above and beyond to make sure we had a great time. The service was exceptional—staff members were attentive, frequently checking in to offer drinks and clear dishes. Overall, it was a smooth and enjoyable experience, and I would highly recommend it!
Thanks so much for joining us and the five star review! We hope your travels have you visiting us again in the near future.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Cruise |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/16 |
Reviewed by: Kara
My family had a wonderful experience! we saw plnety of rays even my wife and son from the boat.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Sunset Cruise & Evening Manta Snorkel Tour [2.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2024/12/30 |
Reviewed by: Mark from Oregon
Everything was perfect! The boat is virtually brand new and is spotless! The crew was amazingly friendly and competent. We were traveling with 3 generations of our family, ranging from 3 to 72 and everyone raved about how this was one of the best adventures any of us had ever experienced! You will not regret booking an adventure on the Spirit of Aloha!!!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Snorkel Sail |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/13 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/11 |
Reviewed by: Gary and Jonna P
Guides were great
Dolphins are clearly very well taken care of and lived
100% awesome
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 30-Minute Deluxe Encounter - Ages 10 & Up |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/06 |
Reviewed by: りょん
This is a luxurious tour where you can enjoy whale watching, dolphin watching, sea turtle viewing, and snorkeling all on a cruise charter. We participated as a family of six across three generations, and with two staff members accompanying us, one of whom entered the water to provide guidance and support, my 78-year-old mother, who has paralysis on her right side, was truly grateful to be able to snorkel together. After snorkeling, there was a service of tropical fruits, juice, and snacks, which I believe offers great value for the price. I especially recommend private charters for families with small children or elderly individuals.
クルーザーチャーターで、ホエールウオッチングも、イルカウオッチングも、ウミガメかざしも楽しめ、スノーケルも楽しめる贅沢なツアーです。
三世代家族6人で参加しましたが、スタッフが2人付いてくれ、1人が一緒に海に入って指導やサポートをしてくれるので、78歳で右半身に麻痺が残る母も、一緒にスノーケルできたのが本当にありがたかったです。
スノーケル後にはトロピカルフルーツやジュース、スナックのサービスもあり、お値段以上の価値があると思います。
特に小さいお子さんや高齢の方にはプライベートチャーターはお勧めです。
Private charters offer not just a luxurious experience, but also true peace of mind and freedom. If you want to make the most of your trip, I definitely recommend going private.
プライベートチャーターは、贅沢な体験という以上に、本当に安心安全で自由が利きます。せっかくの旅行を満足なものにしたいのでしたら、是非プライベートをお勧めします。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 3時間 |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/05 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/03 |
Reviewed by: Christina
Loooooved it! We didnt wanna get off the boat n the crew was awesome with my kids!!!!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/02/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/02/01 |
Reviewed by: Joey and crew
No time to relax on this excursion. We flew to Captain Cook on a zodiac boat with little room to sit or move about. The snorkeling was OK and the guides were helpful. Everything felt rushed from the get go. This trip sure gave us a lot of chuckles when rehashing our day.
Slow down. Less passengers on the boat.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Tour |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Weather: | Sunny |
| Posted on: | 2025/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2025/01/29 |
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