Reviewed by: Belinda
Arriving shortly before 6:30 p.m., we were greeted with welcoming smiles and thank-yous for choosing them.
During the 30-minute boat ride to the manta ray sighting, the crew offered us snacks and beverages. Captain ?Louie? showed us a beautiful sunset while waiting to "anchor" until another boat saw a manta ray (we liked it that he wanted to give us the best chance of seeing manta rays). I was feeling a little seasick by then. Once the boat stopped, the crew gave us helpful instructions.
As we jumped into the water, the staff provided help to any who needed guidance to the lighted raft. Not being the best swimmer, I was one who Tamae kindly guided.
Minutes after setup, we saw our first of 6-7 manta rays for the evening. The manta rays were amazing, even though they chose to stay close to the bottom of the ocean that evening!
During the experience, the raft kept bumping my head and shifting my mask (another in my party had the same experience, so the crew should try to avoid giving the corner spot of the raft to anyone), so I had to hold onto the raft rope with one hand and prevent the raft from bumping my head with the other. The combination of the boat ride and the raft bumping caused my motion sickness to literally erupt. Diego and Tamae compassionately led me toward the boat. Diego comforted me, saying not to worry, at least one person each trip became ill. Because I started feeling better, I was able to return to the raft for the last 10 minutes.
Climbing up the ladder into the boat wasn't the easiest thing to do, but both the captain and crew were there to help.
The ride back was breezy but not too cold with a towel wrapped around our shoulders. I'm also glad there was a small bucket for me to use with my motion sickness.
The entire crew was fantastic, helping us all to experience watching the manta rays! Tamae also offered free actual video footage of our adventure.
Thanks for our memorable experience!
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/07/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/22 |
Reviewed by: CJ
We had the best time with the Wahine Charters crew. They were very kind and welcoming! 10/10 recommend!
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| Packages: | Sunset Cruise & Evening Manta Snorkel Tour [2.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2023/07/10 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/07/08 |
Reviewed by: Jen
We loved this excursion! The Boat & staff were excellent! Snorkeling was amazing (tons of fish, turtle & an eel) & the boat with the slides & high dive were so fun for my kids!! This was our favorite hawaiin excursion!
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| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/07/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/07/01 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Really good water conditions, we got to see a good amount of the rays and the experience was breathtaking!
Aloha Kara! We are thrilled to hear of your amazing experience on our manta ray tour. We hope you come again soon! Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/07/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/05/06 |
Reviewed by: Happy snorkeler
The tour was wonderful , the crew engaging, helpful, humorous, and knowledgeable , the equipment was fine, thoughtful snacks/drinks provided, and of course then there were the rays.it was a dreamlike experience.
Aloha! We are so happy to hear that you had such an amazing time on our Manta Ray tour. We love to hear about our guest's positive experiences. We hope to see you again soon. Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/26 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/23 |
Reviewed by: Molly L
MUST DO-Our family comes to Hawaii every summer and this is by far the most magical experience we've ever had on an excursion!!! There were four manta rays swimming around us-truly awe inspiring! Our kids are 16, 14, and 10...ALL LOVED IT and said it was the highlight of our trip! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Aloha Molly! Thank you for joining our tour and leaving such positive feedback! We are so glad that your family enjoyed your time with the manta rays. We hope to see you again in the future! Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/23 |
Reviewed by: Choco
I had a wonderful time in the beautiful weather of Hawaii Island!
We first went offshore to find dolphins, but unfortunately, we couldn't see any. However, it felt great to speed along in the rubber boat!
The snorkeling was also beautiful. I think there might be more variety of fish in places like Kerama in Okinawa. The water clarity was about 25 meters!
After snorkeling for about an hour, we returned while getting explanations about the lava caves along the coastline.
ハワイ島の最高の天気の中、素敵な時間を過ごせました!
最初にイルカを見つけに沖合に出ましたが、残念ながら会えませんでしたでもゴムボートでスピード出して進むのでとても気持ち良かったです!
シュノーケルも綺麗でした。沖縄のケラマとかの方が魚の種類は多いかな?透明度は25mくらいあったと思います!
小1時間シュノーケルした後に戻りながら海岸線の溶岩洞窟の説明などもしてくれました。
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| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/22 |
Reviewed by: J&P
The weather was great, and I had a very fulfilling snorkeling experience. I've tried it in various places before, but having plenty of time to enjoy it at my own pace was really good.
天気にも恵まれ、とても充実したシュノーケリング体験ができました。今までいろんな場所で経験しましたが、たっぷりな時間で、ゆっくり自由に楽しめるのがGood でした
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 14:00出港(シュノーケル1.5時間) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/22 |
Reviewed by: Kathleen B
We went on the afternoon tour with 8 in our family ranging in age from 4 to 65. Most had no snorkeling experience. Everyone in our group thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The crew were so friendly and helpful! We were impressed with their safety precautions, including all of the crew being certified lifeguards and were watching out for everyone the entire time we were in the water. The water was pristine and we saw so many varieties of fish and even saw an eel. The coral was beautiful, too.
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| Packages: | Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [3.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/22 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/20 |
Reviewed by: Isabella
The boat ride was so much fun and such an adrenaline rush. The waters were beautiful and perfect temperature for swimming. The captain and crew were so friendly and had so much information about the land. Would definitely do it again and you get so much for the price!
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/06/16 |
Reviewed by: Chris Mak
People in bite me were very friendly and fun!
Highly recommend to join their tour!
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/06/04 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/05/13 |
Reviewed by: みっち
It was an unforgettable and amazing experience to see the volcano's crater and valleys up close! The knowledgeable pilot (Kai) who spoke Japanese provided a very clear guide, which made it even more enjoyable. This is definitely a tour you should join!
火山の火口や谷の中を間近で見ることができて、忘れられない素晴らしい体験でした!
日本語の話せる知識豊富なパイロット(カイさん)のガイドも、とてもわかりやすく、より一層楽しめました。
絶対に参加した方がいいツアーです!
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| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/05/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/05/25 |
Reviewed by: P Burke
This is a great outfit to take you to see Manta Rays. The boat is a medium size so the group size is much smaller than the big boats. Crew are very professional and knowledgeable in the Manta Ray habits and behaviors. The boat ride to the site is short (<15 min) then it's into the water.
On our trip a single manta showed up after about 5 minutes in the water. As the sky darkened the plankton seemed to multiply and the show really began. The single ray made several passes within inches of our masks. Then another showed up and it was like a graceful dance being performed right beneath you. Another two rays showed up and things really got interesting. What fun watching that ballet!
Afterward, hot soup and warm drinks helped fuel the conversation with the other participants. A most delightful and memorable experience.
P. Burke
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| Packages: | Evening Manta Snorkeling Adventure |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/05/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/05/10 |
Reviewed by: Brian Van Wie
Diego, Trevor, and Tamae were incredible! They were fun and upbeat and super helpful. We got in the water and we say more than a half dozen different manta rays swimming around right beneath us! It was an experience we’ll never forget!
Aloha Brian! We thank you for choosing Iruka and leaving such kind feedback! We hope to see you again in the future. Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/29 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/27 |
Reviewed by: G-Rex
Great experience! This was a fun time on a very nice, new catamaran with a crew was friendly, knowledgeable and informative. Tho food was great and the snorkelling at the stop by Captain Cooks monument was awesome!
Aloha G-Rex,
Mahalo Nui Loa for joining us and sharing your lovely photo. We hope to see you soon!
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/25 |
Reviewed by: Big Bertha
This trip was great. Outstanding crew constantly catering to our every need and ensuring the best experience. Captain Trevor, first mate Diego and Joe and everyone else were so accommodating to all. Would love to come back and visit the mantas again!
Aloha! We are so happy to hear that you had such a fantastic time on our Manta Ray tour. We thank you for choosing Iruka and leaving such positive feedback. Come back soon! Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/23 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/21 |
Reviewed by: hq66
One of the top 5 experiences of my life! A must do on the big island. Captains Trevor and Diego were helpful. Storm was coming in so water was choppy. Climbing out of the water was the hardest part.
Aloha! We are so thrilled that you had such a great time on our Manta Ray tour! Thank you so much for choosing Iruka Hawaii Dolphin. We hope we have a chance to welcome you back on our boat soon. Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/20 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/18 |
Reviewed by: JLC
This was such a great adventure! The crew was super nice, friendly, knowledgeable and gave us all the important information ahead of time. I am glad we rented wetsuits (the long sleeve, short legs version - $10), because the amount of time we stay in the water and specially at sunset, made it for a very cold attraction.
Nonetheless, we saw at least 4 manta rays, they were swimming around and under us for the entire time and it was such an incredible experience!!!
When we got back to the boat, we were treated to some really yummy hot chocolate.
Tamae, one of our guides, also had some pictures and videos that she shared with us!!
Aloha! Thank you so much for joining our sunset Manta Ray tour. We are so glad you had a great time and were able to see the mantas. We hope you have a chance to come back soon for more fun. Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/13 |
Reviewed by: Johanne
Excellent adventure, was very well organized. We enjoyed it alot and definitely recommend this excursion. The excursion was on time the staff was super friendly and informative.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Evening Manta Snorkeling Adventure |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/03/22 |
Reviewed by: Michelle
We are typically do-it-yourselfers and were initially skeptical about going on a guided tour. This tour turned out to be so worth it! Captain Brendan and crewmember Tuliz were very knowledgeable, competent, and friendly. We happened to see whales at close range along the way, and our guides made the most of it. The snorkeling at Captain Cook is magnificent. A fantastic experience all around!
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| Packages: | 3-hour Captain Cook Cruise (1 Snorkel Stop) |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/14 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/12 |
Reviewed by: Or Peretz
Great crew, beautiful bay. The cruise ship was super equipped with everything you need to have a great time. The food was delicious, the snorkeling gear was great and the restrooms were clean. We highly recommend this tour!
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| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/13 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/08 |
Reviewed by: CGB
Delightful crew. Simple food always available. very well organized. Had reef-safe sunscreen available. Even had prescription goggles for me. Captain told great stories. A great morning's adventure.
Aloha,
Mahalo Nui Loa for taking the time to leave us a 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: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/04/09 |
Reviewed by: reneec
The crew made the cruise fun and enjoyable for people of all ages.
Snacks were included, but you may not want to est if you get seasick easily.
As part of the experience, they even took some pictures during so we could just enjoy the experience ourselves.
Note: If it's the right season, you may even be able to see other wildlife on the Sunset cruise like we did!
Aloha! Thank you for joining our manta ray tour. We appreciate your kind words and are thrilled to hear that you had a great time. Come back soon, Mahalo
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2023/04/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/03/09 |
Reviewed by: Megan
We had the best experience with our two five-year olds! They were both got a little nervous about the snorkeling and the crew patiently offered different options until they agreed to the kick boards with lenses. A big hit!! We saw a variety of fish and enjoyed the beauty (and history) of Cooke Cove The slides were also entertaining as the kids watched different people (including mom and dad) zoom down!! If you are concerned about the all veg breakfast and lunch, don’t be. As meat eaters, we all agreed the food was outstanding. To top it off, the Captain’s historical knowledge and witty comments made the ride to and from the coral reefs a lot of fun. We highly recommend tour!
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| Packages: | Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour [4.5 hours] |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2023/03/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/03/29 |
Reviewed by: cassandra15
Check in was pretty simple and easy. Trainers were super friendly. Great adventure for families.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | 30-min Encounter Deluxe (Ages 5+) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/03/28 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/07/27 |
Reviewed by: Steve712
If you do one thing on the west side of the big island this is it. Words and pictures don't do the experience justice. The crew of the boat was safety conscious and the captain ran a tight ship. As a passenger we felt in good hands. Do your homework about what this tour involves. If you cannot swim and/or are afraid of the water this is NOT FOR YOU!!!. This tour had 1/2 a dozen non-swimmers on the tour. They were miserable and the crew had to spend an inordinate time catering to them.
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Moonlight Manta Snorkel (Seasonal) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/03/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/03/22 |
Reviewed by: Coartney
Great Capitan + crew! Beautiful views! Very clean and organized! Loved the history given by crew members! Would definitely recommend!!
Aloha Courtney,
Mahalo for sharing your beautiful pictures and for your wonderful recommendation. We hope to have the pleasure of seeing you in the near future!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/03/21 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/03/16 |
Reviewed by: Jenny
We arrived slightly late and the crew kindly waited a bit for us. There was only 4 of us which made the experience felt a lot more enjoyable - it was not crowded or noisy! No jostling of people.
Once out there, we got in the water smoothly and saw 2 rays, 3 times. Unfortunately, the ray sightings have reduced in recent years so we considered ourselves lucky! Highly recommend it all round!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2023/03/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/02/24 |
Reviewed by: L Family
Eka snorkeling with manta rays was amazing. The small, personalized tour is a great way to see the rays. Loved the classic canoe. This was perfect for ray family and I can recommend this tour group highly enough. Kai was great - he is so knowledgeable about the rays and he calmed my 9 y.o.’s fears -he on spectrum and they were very flexible in how we got him into the water and to the board. My son can’t stop talking about how great this experience was-he can’t wait to go again. Book this tour - you won’t regret it. The entire group was accommodating and friendly and made this the best adventure of our Hawaiian trip. Thank you Eka.
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2023/03/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/03/05 |
Reviewed by: Phil
We had an amazing time as the crew was incredibly prepared and accommodating. They were able to fit all of us on board and bring us out without a problem. The guides were very knowledgeable and were helpful in getting in and out of the water. They work together with the other tours in the same space to attract as many rays as possible. We ended up seeing 10 or more rays with a near constant show. We had my 65-year-old mom and dad, my 40-year old self and wife, and our eight and 10-year-old with us, and it was never a problem. A great activity if your kids can stay up a little later and recover the next day.
It's a short boat ride out, but the darkness set off a little of my motion sickness, So if you're prone to that be sure to take some medication ahead of time. I also had a little issue being in the waves and going up and down in the darkness. One of the other participants got fully sick away from the boat but the crew handled it very professionally.
I would absolutely recommend them!
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Night Manta Discovery Adventure |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2023/02/28 |
| Activity Date: | 2023/01/30 |
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Aloha Belinda! Thank you so much for choosing Iruka and for sharing your positive feedback. We are so glad that you enjoyed your time on our Manta Ray tour and with our amazing crew. We apologize for any discomfort you felt from the sea sickness. We are so happy to hear that you still were able to have a good time. We hope to see you again in the future! Mahalo