Page 11) Things to Do in Big Island in 2026 – Tours & Activities | HawaiiActivities.com

All Reviews for Marine Life Tours & Cruises in Big Island

Overall Rating

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Reviews

1108 reviews

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Great experience!

Reviewed by: Patricia

Justin was so knowledgeable about the manta rays - we learned many interesting things. The equipment provided was very good quality and most comfortable. The most unforgettable part of the experience was seeing so many beautiful manta rays! And they came so close that we were touched by them as they swam.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2022/02/07
Activity Date: 2022/02/04

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Coolest experience of my life!

Reviewed by: Coolest experience

This was the coolest experience of my life, and that is not an exaggeration at all. Plus that is saying a lot as we are world wide travelers and have done epic things. Every person living on the Big Island or traveling to the Big Island should do this! If you are considering it and wondering if it will be kinda cool or maybe sorta lame (like I thought it might be) let me assure you it is beyond cool!
We literally had to have close to a dozen manta rays swimming around us, most would swim within inches of us. Some VERY large ones also! No need to fear they have no teeth or stingers and are harmless (unless you are plankton). These creatures are truly magnificent!
The crew onboard was wonderful and knowledgeable. When we were done there was hot tea and a snack which was an added bonus.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2022/02/04
Activity Date: 2022/02/02

Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Cruise with Ocean Sports - Kids 5 Years Old and Under Ride Free!

Excellent service

Reviewed by: Teresa

The tour was excellent even if the surf had made the water a little cloudy. The guides were excellent and knowledgeable.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha,
Thanks for taking the time to provide feedback about your Glass Bottom Boat Cruise. We're so happy to read that despite the surf conditions, you enjoyed the trip and the service and information provided by our crew (and got to see that honu feeding).
We know there are a lot of activities on the Big Island and we're honored you chose to spend part of your morning with us.
Mahalo and a hui hou

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2022/01/22
Activity Date: 2022/01/17

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Great manta ray viewing with awesome crew!

Reviewed by: Matt D

Super competent captain and crew who were helpful with gear, getting on/off the boat, assisting those who were uncomfortable once in the water. The manta viewing was amazing, close up and continuous. Our guide provided background information on the mantas. Several other species of smaller fish were present also. Definitely recommend this activity!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2022/01/22
Activity Date: 2021/12/31

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour Adventure on a Hawaiian Sailing Canoe

Unforgettable Experience

Reviewed by: Alex

The manta rays were inches from us, and all four in our group had an exceptional time. The guides were knowledgeable and really added to the experience. Highly recommend.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Package
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2022/01/19
Activity Date: 2022/01/17

Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Cruise with Ocean Sports - Kids 5 Years Old and Under Ride Free!

Great crew! Friendly and knowledgeable!

Reviewed by: Mike

The crew was knowledgeable, friendly and fun. The surf didn’t allow for good visibility on the day we chose to go, but they informed us ahead of time and gave us the option of rescheduling. We chose to go anyway and they worked hard to still make it a great experience.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha,
Thanks for taking the time to review your Glass Bottom Boat Cruise. We're so happy to read that despite the limited visibility, you enjoyed the cruise and your interactions with our crew.
We know there are a lot of activity providers on the Big Island and we're honored you chose to spend part of your day with us.
Mahalo and a hui hou

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Attended as: Families with Young Children
Posted on: 2022/01/14
Activity Date: 2022/01/05

Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Cruise with Ocean Sports - Kids 5 Years Old and Under Ride Free!

awesome little trip!

Reviewed by: EMN

Great staff and fun little outing for my 6year old :)

Reply from activity provider

Aloha,
Thanks for reviewing your Glass Bottom Boat Cruise. We're so happy to read that you and your little one enjoyed the trip!
We know there are a lot of activity providers on the island and we really appreciate that you chose to spend part of your morning with us.
Mahalo and a hui hou

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2022/01/08
Activity Date: 2021/12/15

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Life Changing with The Best Crew Ever!

Reviewed by: Marlene209c

It's true, discovering the Manta's is a must do on Kona and the best place is Keauhou Bay with the "Dolphin Discovery" crew. I chose this company based on their reviews and it was the best decision I made! Our family numbered 6 among an intimate group of 12, plus the crew. Everyone of the crew from the "in-water" guides (Justin & Chaz) to the Capt. and shore staff were AMAZING. Super helpful, patient, approachable, knowledgeable and everything a group could ask for and more! Equipment is top notch and the hot, lavender/chamomile tea & cookies after the swim/snorkeling is the perfect touch!! Thank you very, very much for making this one of the most memorable experiences we had in Kona!!

  • We LOVE Dolphin Discoveries 'Manta Adventure"!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2022/01/06
Activity Date: 2022/01/03

Kona Whale Watch Afternoon Tour - Honi Olani Catamaran 90-Min Cruise [Dec-Mar]

Very good experience!

Reviewed by: Laura and Noah

Whale watching with Hawaii Nautical was a great experience. The crew was very friendly and they had a great offer at the bar. We also got a lot of information on the whales and their habitat.
Don't have too high expectations when you go out in December. We only saw two whales, their backs and a few times their tails. From what we heard, January might be a better time to go whale watching.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Buy One, Get One FREE! Afternoon Whale Watching Sail
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2022/01/01
Activity Date: 2021/12/30

Keauhou Bay Manta Ray Night Dive Tour & Snorkel Adventure from Kona - Sea Quest

Manta rays

Reviewed by: Boele

Crew, equipment, boat, customers and experience were all AWESOME

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Swim with Mantas
Attended as: Families with Young Children
Posted on: 2022/01/01
Activity Date: 2021/12/30

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Great experience with awesome crew

Reviewed by: big island lover

We took the cruise last Thursday. The cruise time from the harbor to the site was a little long but worthful. The sunset view was beautiful. And we were so lucky to see a group of dolphins. The two girls were super nice and very helpful. Also, they offer a different price for people with ride-only. It was a great experience. I regret for not giving tips because my wallet was left in the car. I hope they could accept Zelle/Apple pay of tips later.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2021/12/29
Activity Date: 2021/12/23

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Phenomenal experience!

Reviewed by: Suzie

The manta ray night snorkel was AMAZING! Our guides were so friendly and knowledgeable. They took the time to meet each one of us individually. Being in the dark ocean with these amazing creatures is a breathtaking experience that can’t be put into words or explained with videos. You just have to do it. We have 5-6 rays that barrel rolled under us continuously for about 20 minutes.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Package: Moonlight Manta Snorkel (Seasonal)
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2021/12/29
Activity Date: 2021/12/27

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

One Word: Disappointed

Reviewed by: Chris

I paid for and experienced the sunset Manta Ray Night Time Snorkelling on Dec. 23, 2021. I completely understand that these are wild animals and that it's extremely unpredictable whether or not you'll get a good chance to see them up close and personal. That said, that is what this company is selling and what we are paying extremely good money for. if you are going to charge for it, then every effort should be made to deliver on that experience.

The crew overall did a decent job, but once we arrived at the area where the Manta Rays were supposed to be, I was surprised to see a huge number of boats of various sizes and setups. I then realized that perhaps our setup was not ideal. I noticed that some arrange the snorkelers in a circle or square formation, making it more likely for everyone to get a good view of the Manta Ray if it shows up. Our setup was just some floating paddle boards, and our particular location was not ideal. I would say all of us on our particular paddle board barely caught a glimpse of a Manta Ray, whereas others I believe based on what they said got a much better view. This was extremely disappointing. I'm sure those who did catch a good shot will talk about a different experience, but all of us who were on the boat paid good money, not just those who got a good view of the Manta Rays.

This makes it hard to recommend this particular outfit to others

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Chris, thank you for taking the time to share your feedback as we are always looking for ways to improve our tours. We are deeply sorry that your encounter with the Manta Rays fell short of expectations on our tour. Our captain and crew went to great lengths to provide a memorable experience, but the unpredictability of wildlife and ocean conditions can sometimes pose challenges. We hope you can join us again in the future to restore your impression of our tour and see more Mantas up close. Mahalo

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2021/12/28
Activity Date: 2021/12/23

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Met Expectations and then some

Reviewed by: Greg

Was thrilling and informative. The crew were friendly and helpful and made every effort to make sure the experience was enjoyable. The mantas were so close and very impressive. Also saw dolphins as a bonus.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/12/25
Activity Date: 2021/12/23

Big Island Whale Watching Cruise from Waikoloa - Hawaii Nautical [Dec-Mar]

Great experience with Hawaii Nautical

Reviewed by: Irina

We saw two whales during our trip! We went on a tour in December, when the whale watching season just started, yet we were lucky to encounter two whales. The tour departed from Waikaloa, which was a bit of a drive from our place in Kona. However, it is supposed to be a better area for spotting whales. Overall, we had a very pleasant experience.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Buy One, Get One FREE! Afternoon Whale Watch Cruise [Sailing Catamaran]
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/12/20
Activity Date: 2021/12/19

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Manta Ray night snorkeling

Reviewed by: Awale Farah

The experience was amazing. A big ray came so close touched my elbow.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2021/12/16
Activity Date: 2021/12/14

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Amazing Manta Ray Excursion

Reviewed by: Susie

Our entire family had an amazing evening swimming with the Manta Rays, it was magical. The crew, with Captain Bryce were fantastic, knowledgeable, and fun. Highly recommend this trip!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha!
Thank you for sharing your great experience!
We are very happy to hear that.
Yes!! Guests will experience a magical night with Manta Ray and our crews;)

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2021/12/03
Activity Date: 2021/11/30

Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Cruise with Ocean Sports - Kids 5 Years Old and Under Ride Free!

Great for kids!

Reviewed by: Hawaii Visitor

Perfect activity for kids or those with limited mobility. Great crew and fun experience.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha -- thanks for taking the time to provide feedback about your Glass Bottom Boat Cruise. We're so happy to read that you enjoyed the trip and your interactions with our crew.
We look forward to sharing more adventures with you the next time you're in "our neighborhood".
Mahalo

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Waikoloa Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
Attended as: Families with Young Children
Posted on: 2021/11/28
Activity Date: 2021/11/26

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

The crew really went out of the way to make it a great experience

Reviewed by: JCarter

Pirate Wednesdays - Would highly recommend. You get a comedy show as well as the manta rays

Reply from activity provider

Aloha! Thank you for joining with us.
We are glad you enjoyed our tour!

A Hui Hou:)

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/11/26
Activity Date: 2021/11/24

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Manta Adventures

Reviewed by: Kevin&Lorrie

Tour was professionally done, we saw to many Mantas to count...was such a beautiful experience:). Hot tea and good discussion afterwards was great! Thank you so much!!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2021/11/23
Activity Date: 2021/11/20

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Awesome

Reviewed by: fyr

We saw so many mantas!!!! It was amazing and awesome!!!! The hot tea was nice as well. Thank you!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Friends
Posted on: 2021/11/22
Activity Date: 2021/11/20

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Reviewed by: K Fox

This Manta Ray Night Snorkel was near the top of my husbands life list! It was very well organized and the guides were very informative. We saw at least 5-7 Rays. Many came up quite close to check us out. We would definitely do this again, but next time we will bring the camera! I felt very safe the whole time and for me, 45 minutes was just the right amount of time.

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/11/18
Activity Date: 2021/11/16

Atlantis Kona Submarine Tour & Undersea Adventure - Descend up to 100 feet

Good Experience

Reviewed by: Kara

It was a smaller boat, so I felt a little bit squished, but I guess that is how submarines must feel!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Kona Submarine
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/11/12
Activity Date: 2021/11/10

Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

MUST DO

Reviewed by: Kara

Learning about the manta ray and watching them feed was amazing! The crew is hawaii is always so helpful assisting me and caring for us! I would recommend this to anyone and love all my excursions here- MAHALO!!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/11/11
Activity Date: 2021/11/09

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Amazing!!!

Reviewed by: Barbara

Everything went very smoothly. Our crew was wonderful & very helpful. I had trouble getting into the boat after climbing the ladder & Trevor was so kind to help me in the boat. We had a wonderful time. The Manta Ray experience will be hard to top! So great of them to share pictures they had taken from below!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Barbara,

We are very glad you spend a great time with us!
Please come back with your friend and family again!

Mahalos

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/11/01
Activity Date: 2021/10/21

Kona Glassbottom Boat & Guided Coral Reef Tour with Marine Naturalist

Amazing Marine Naturalist

Reviewed by: Parrot Fish poop

Not only could we ask her about anything going on 'under the sea', she could tell us in English OR Hawaiian. Wish I could retain a smidge of all that excellent info!

Reply from activity provider

Mahalo for such a wonderful review. We are so happy to hear that you enjoyed the information that the narrator shared with you. Aloha!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Kona Glass Bottom Boat Cruise from Kailua-Kona Pier
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/10/25
Activity Date: 2021/10/21

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Manta swim

Reviewed by: The Sullivan Family

The crew were fabulous! We all would do it again!

Reply from activity provider

Yes, please come back to see Manta Rays and us!!
A hui hou

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Families
Posted on: 2021/10/23
Activity Date: 2021/10/21

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Awesome experience.

Reviewed by: Katy C

The entire experience from start to finish was amazing! The sunset cruise was a fun addition to swimming with the Mantas. The staff is super fun, helpful and knowledgeable. The Mantas are breathtaking- we were in awe of them! I’m so glad we did this tour, definitely a major highlight of our week in Kona!

Reply from activity provider

Aloha,
We are grad you had a great time with Manta Rays,
They come so close and flip flip flips..it's really amazing!
Thank you very much for your nice pic ;)
Mahalo

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/10/13
Activity Date: 2021/10/11

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Beautiful!

Reviewed by: Evelia

This experience was amazing!

We went to Hawaii for our honeymoon and we can't stop talking about how cool this experience was.

We got to see BIG and BEAUTIFUL mantarays and they were really close too.

The guys from the crew were also super nice, funny and told us lots of interesting facts about the marine life.

Reply from activity provider

Congratulation on your wedding !
We are happy to spending such a special time with ​you.
Manta rays make a beautiful sight very close to us.
Wish you happiness!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/10/02
Activity Date: 2021/09/09

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour - Small-Group Adventure from Keauhou Bay

Simply magical, but easy to get cold

Reviewed by: John

Really enjoyed this experience, the manta rays even touched me!

You can bring your own GoPro but it might be hard to film and hold on at the same time. You're not swimming, you're horizontally floating with a pool noodle at your ankles and your hands gripping a light bar that attracts plankton upon which the mantas feast.

It can get cold when you're in the water, so don't be afraid to bring dive boots, gloves, and your own wetsuit. You'll get a shorty top only and I was pretty chilly, even for a New Englander!

Helpful
Rating:
Packages: Night Manta Discovery Adventure
Attended as: Couples
Posted on: 2021/09/15
Activity Date: 2021/09/13
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