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.
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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: 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
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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: Mari
The tour was so much fun. OMG, we even learn during our tour because the guys stop and talk to us about their culture. Our kids enjoy the tour so much.
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| Packages: | Four Riders Package (1 Driver + 3 Passengers) |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/26 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/13 |
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!!
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/01 |
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!
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| Packages: | Dinner Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/22 |
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
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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!
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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
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| Packages: | 60-min Flight |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/20 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/11 |
Reviewed by: Boy Scout Mom
I was nervous because I hadn't kayaked on the ocean before, but Brent & Jesse kept us safe while making the day SO MUCH FUN! Brent even took my son up a 32 foot cliff to jump off! The sea cave was cool, but the snorkeling was fantastic. So beautiful and fun!! Thanks guys for a great day!
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/19 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/15 |
Reviewed by: Ana
Such a beautiful ranch and the guides were very knowledgeable!
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| Packages: | 2-Seater UTV Tandem Ride Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/19 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/17 |
Reviewed by: Naamador
The Manta Ray Night Snorkel by Sea Quest is well worth the expense for the unique opportunity to get up close to the beautiful rays. There are a lot of different companies doing this type of tour. Sea Quest really has the entire process dialed in to make the most of the experience and to maximize your viewing time. Very professional and just downright nice. They truly care about delivering. Would highly recommend.
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| Packages: | Swim with Mantas |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/18 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/16 |
Reviewed by: Janet A
The guides were incredibly informative and so down to earth! We felt so welcomed and ended up with a private tour!! The whole experience was amazing, but my absolute favorite part was going to the ocean!! The view is spectacular and we even saw a pod of dolphins swim by !! 10/10 and I highly recommend it!
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| Packages: | 2-Seater UTV Tandem Ride Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/13 |
Reviewed by: Mashka
The boat was old and had not enough power. On the way there we were passed by many boats of same size. Then the boat wouldn't start at all and we were towed back to port. 3 passengers were very sea sick.
The crew didn't provide any information about the manta reys while we watched. Other boat crews were very informative.
Would not recommend.
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/10 |
Reviewed by: Nathan
The crew, the equipment and the atmosphere were fantastic. But all topped by the giant Manta Rays that we saw on the trip. Once in a life time experience and was one of our favorite things we did while in Kona!
Aloha Nathan,
Mahalo for sharing your experience with us, repeating customers receive a 20% discount on all future bookings!
Mahalo,
Iruka Hawaii
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/17 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/10 |
Reviewed by: Patrick
- absolutely awesome guide
- outstanding landscape
- sea kayak / cliff jumping / snorkeling / picnic on the sea
- as soon as I go back, I will participate again
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/16 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/02 |
Reviewed by: Gila
It was such a great experience! Our tour guide was AMAZING! So personable and knowledgeable. He knew sooo much history. I don’t think there was a question asked he couldn’t answer at all. My favorite stops were the lava tube and volcano summit visits. Incredible views. My wife and I were saying we should’ve done this when we first arrived instead of at the end of our trip. Sooo much great information. Learning about how coffee was made was also great! Keep it up!
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| Packages: | Pick-up from Kona Hotels |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/15 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/13 |
Reviewed by: Garrett N
Really cool experience riding UTV’s around the Polulu Valley with some well trained and knowledgeable guides. Would highly recommend this tour for those interesting in getting a little dirty while also learning a lot about the history of the big island. My favorite part was riding up to the upper ridge of the valley to the waterfall where you get to have a few snacks and enjoy some stories from the guides. Very hill terrain, be prepared for a rugged but fun trail!
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| Packages: | Two Riders Package (1 Driver + 1 Passenger) |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/13 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/11 |
Reviewed by: Peter Hauanio
We had an amazing experience, the mantas were huge and plentiful. Seeing the amount of plankton, no wonder the mantas stays in that area. The crew was awesome, the hot chocolate was great. Finding Sea quest was easy, and getting out to the swim site was quick. The only downfall was when water would get into the mask, and you go to readjust the mask, because there’s a lot of plankton around, could there be a possibility that you may have swallowed some as well, or may have gone up your nose. My friend had a serious sinus infection the day after our tour. She’s doing ok now. Otherwise, we had a blast and will cherish this moment forever. Thank you for the experience.
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| Packages: | Swim with Mantas |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/09 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Great day to see all parts of the Volcano Park! Nice they have Hilo side tours as we were nervous when staying on Hilo side.
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| Packages: | Volcano Adventure Tour |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/05 |
Reviewed by: Kara
This experience was awesome and you dont even need to be a great snorkeler!
Aloha Kara,
Mahalo for sharing your experience with us, repeating customers receive a 20% discount on all future bookings!
Mahalo,
Iruka Hawaii
| Rating: | |
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| Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/24 |
Reviewed by: Kara
Jumped over to Bg Island for the day and this tour hit it all! Great experience
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| Packages: | Standard Tour |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/12 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/23 |
Reviewed by: Unknown
It was OK. Nothing was explained well. Water was cold and did not expect to be hanging by the side of board for half hour to watch them coming at you! Very inconvenient, cold and ill-explained activity. Although staff was helpful. Wished they listened to the individual difficulties to understand. Could have enjoyed better with help.
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/11 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/15 |
Reviewed by: Alex
This Zip-line Tour was off the hook! David and Josh, along with the other staff, were awesome and very good at what they do! They’re safety instructions were very friendly and clear that made it a really simple and fast process. They’re funny humor kept my wife and I engaged and laughing the whole time which helped break the ice and had everyone conversing. The Zip-Lines are short at the beginning but that’s ok because it was our first time doing this type of activity and helped ease into the longer ones. The grand finale is awesome and are still super stoked about doing it! You won’t be disappointed. Oh! And you have to try the different types of bananas while tracking through the different Zip-Lines and don’t forget to enjoy the views! Once again, thank you Josh and David for a great time and all the info provided! Until next time!
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| Packages: | Zipline Tour (7-Line Course) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/09/30 |
Reviewed by: Rob
The crew was fun, safe and respectful as well as extremely fun! We saw a minimum of 3 and a max of well… it was 7 or 8 at once. We were all so pleased with this even and I highly recommend going at sunset.
The rays were magnificent and gentle for such large creatures. They truly are a sight to see.
Will do this again on our next visit.
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| Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/05 |
Reviewed by: Georgie
We had a great time on the tour. The description about black sand beacb was misleading we did t go there since it’s not anywhere near hilo but We got to see lava rocks, lava tubes and learned a lot about the National park and plants located on the island! Definitely recommend the tour
There is some hiking (up to 2 miles round trip) involved so definitely wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket
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| Packages: | Evening Volcano Explorer |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/06 |
Reviewed by: Stephanie
The canoe was a very cool option and keeps the number of people in the group low. The boat sailed a very short distance to the manta viewing area- great for me as I tend to get motion sick. The water was warmer than I thought- again great for me bc I think I’m allergic to cold water. I wore my own wetsuit but they provided everyone with a proper wetsuit top. I wore both and was fine. Our 12yo said he was cold but didn’t complain.
We were all provided snorkels and masks. We all got into the water and held onto a floating device equipped with an underwater light. There we’re several mantas in the area and a few of them swam within inches of us! One touched my arm with its belly. We were in the water about 30 minutes at best guess which was plenty of time in my opinion. I specifically booked a shorter tour for fear of getting sick or freezing but none occurred.
Overall it was a very cool experience and our guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful! Definitely recommend this adventure!
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| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2022/10/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2022/10/05 |
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Reply from activity provider
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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!