Hawaii
The VELTRA tour I took was the Maui to Lanai Dolphin and Snorkel cruise on October 7th, 2015. The tour was a great opportunity to see the island of Maui from the water and snorkel in beautiful unspoiled coral reefs. The staff on the tour were attentive and hospitable. The food was great and there was plenty of it. We did not get to our destination of Lanai due to poor weather conditions. In my opinion the boat captain made a wise choice in avoiding a possible dangerous trip across the waterway between Maui and Lanai. The captain did offer the option of rescheduling our trip in order to see the island of Lanai, but our group was leaving the next day so this was not something we could do. I would suggest that anyone taking this tour should schedule it at the beginning of their vacation so if there is inclement weather they can change the date and have the full experience. One other concern was that lunch was served between our snorkeling opportunities and on my second snorkel trip I had a full stomach. I don't suggest doing this. If lunch had been served after the second snorkel it would have been easier on me. Overall though, a great time had by my family!
We gathered at the meeting point in the evening! The location provided after checking into the hotel was a bit unclear, and I ended up being slightly late. However, when I contacted the tour company, they responded kindly.
Upon arriving at the meeting point, I met the staff and other participants of the tour for the first time. There were not only Japanese people but also participants from overseas, and we chatted as we set off on the boat. I was excited to hear from the staff that if we spotted a manta ray for the first time and took a picture, we could name it!
Surprisingly, as we moved quickly, we witnessed a large sun setting over the ocean! While enjoying drinks, we gradually approached the sun as it sank into the sea, and we were able to take our time watching the sunset and capturing photos from the boat.
After it got dark, we all entered the water and encountered manta rays! I was able to swim closely with a large manta ray! I took pictures of the manta ray with my digital camera. On the way back, we enjoyed light snacks and had fun chatting with the staff and other participants, savoring the experience of the manta rays. It was a wonderful experience unique to the Big Island that I couldn't have in my daily life!!!
夕方に現地に集合!ホテルチェックイン後に連絡した際に教えてもらった集合場所がややわかりにくく、迷い集合時間を少し過ぎてしまいました。しかし、ツアー会社へ連絡すると、丁寧に対応していただきました。
現地へ集合すると、スタッフの方、一緒にツアーに行く人と初対面しました。日本人だけではなく、海外の方も参加しており、いろいろ話をしながら、船で出発しました。スタッフさんから、はじめてマンタを
見つけ写真を撮ると名前をつけることができるという話を聞きながらわくわくして向かいました!
意外にも早いスピードの中、進んで行くと、大きな太陽が海に沈むところ!ドリンクを飲みながら、徐々に海に近付いていく太陽、船の上でじっくり日の入を見て、写真を撮ったりすることができました。
その後は暗くなってから、みんなで海に入り、マンタと遭遇!大きいマンタとじっくり泳ぐことができました!持参したデシタルカメラで、マンタの
写真を撮ることができました。帰りは軽食をいただき、マンタの余韻を残しながらスタッフの方やツアーに参加してる他の方たちと楽しく話して帰りました。
日常ではできない、ハワイ島ならではの楽しい経験ができました!!!
This time, I participated in an activity at the prestigious Dolphin University for the first time. I had never experienced snorkeling before, so I was anxious about keeping up with everyone, but thanks to the fun instructors' guidance, I was able to see wild spinner dolphins right from the start. Since they were wild, I learned various things, such as the cute sounds of the dolphins, the scars they have from surviving in nature (like from battles with sharks), and how the pods move.
However, not everyone was able to observe the spinner dolphins, so we tried multiple times, and finally, on the third attempt, everyone succeeded. I had signed up for stand-up paddleboarding because I wanted to experience it, but due to time constraints, we were unable to do it. I was quite disappointed about that. However, I felt a strong sense of unity with my classmates as we all aimed for success, which was very moving.
During snorkeling, I was able to see many fish, but the guide was feeding them with bread or something, so if we were focused on wild dolphins and wild sea turtles, I wish they had also emphasized keeping it wild in that aspect. Nevertheless, the tour at the prestigious Dolphin University was overall very enjoyable, and I was able to encounter the dolphins I was aiming for, so I am very satisfied.
今回、初めて名門イルカ大学さんのアクティビティーに参加させて頂きました。私は、今までシュノーケリングなどを経験したことがなかったので、周りついていけるか不安でしたが、楽しいインストラクターの方々の誘導により、一発目から野生のスピナードルフィンをみることができました。野生だったので、可愛いイルカの声や、自然界を生き抜いていることによる傷跡(サメ等と戦った後)、そして群れがどのように動いていくのか等と、様々なことを知ることができました。
ただ、全員がスピナードルフィンを観測できたわけではなかったので、何度もトライをし、ついに三回目で全員成功となりました。
スタンドアップパドルを体験したく、こちらの名門イルカ大学さんに申し込みを入れましたが、時間がおした関係で、スタンドアップパドルをする事ができなくなってしまいました。今回、その点はとても残念でした。しかし、クラスメイト全員で成功をさせよう!という団結力も久しぶりに味わい、なんだかとっても感動いたしました。
また、シュノーケリングの際にはたくさんのお魚をみる事が出来ましたが、ガイドの方がパン?か何かで魚に餌付けをしていたので、野生のイルカや野生のウミガメなどにこだわっていたのならば、
そこも野生にこだわって欲しかったなぁと思います。
ですが、今回の名門イルカ大学さんのツアーは
全体的にとても楽しく、目当てのイルカにもしっかりと遭遇する事が出来たため、
とても満足しています。
Thank you for participating. We're glad you enjoyed it. We look forward to your next participation!
ご参加頂きましてありがとうございました。お楽しみ頂けて何よりです。またのご参加をお待ちしております!
On the second day of arriving in Hawaii, I finally went on the long-awaited dolphin tour. Swimming with dolphins has been my dream since I was young. I boarded the yellow school bus of Dolphin Academy and went to meet the dolphins. The blue sky and blue sea of Hawaii provided a dreamlike experience. It felt as if I were swimming in an aquarium, like being in a painting. The color of the sea was wonderfully clear, leaving me speechless. I was able to feel a sense of unity with the beautiful dolphins that I love so much.
The tour was set up like a school, and even though it was only half a day, I felt like a student again. Our guide, Minako, was full of smiles and explained everything clearly, creating a fantastic classroom atmosphere from start to finish. Next, I am considering participating in the Manta University on the Big Island. Thank you for providing such a valuable experience.
At the end, I did get a bit seasick, but I appreciate how kind everyone was. I recommend that those who are not confident about seasickness bring motion sickness medication. It would be a shame for such a precious time to be ruined... *sigh*
ハワイに到着し2日目 待ちに待ったイルカツアー
昔からイルカと泳ぐのが私の夢。
いざ、イルカ中学の黄色いスクールバスに乗り込み
イルカに会いに行ってきました。
ハワイの青い空に青い海
夢のような体験ができました。
まるで絵画の世界にいるような、水族館の中を泳いでいるかのよう。海の色も素晴らしく透明で、言葉になりません。
イルカの美しさ 大好きなイルカと
一体感を感じる事ができました。
ツアーの設定も、学校のようで、半日でしたが、学生に戻れました。ガイドのミナコさんも笑顔が満開で、話が分かりやすく、最初から最後まで
教室の雰囲気は最高でした。
次は、ハワイ島のマンタ大学に是非参加してみたいと考えています。大変貴重な体験をさせて頂き
ありがとうございました。
また、最後は船酔いになりましたが、皆さん優しく接して頂いて感謝しています。
船酔いに自信の無い方は、酔い止めを持参される事をお勧めします。せっかくの貴重な時間が、残念な事になってしまいます、、、苦笑
Thank you for participating. We're glad you enjoyed it. We look forward to your next participation!
ご参加頂きましてありがとうございました。お楽しみ頂けて何よりです。またのご参加をお待ちしております!
I booked this tour for my family [ages 3 & 6]... none of us had any snorkeling experience. We all had a great time learning about the islands, sea animals, and snorkeling. The locations were beautiful!! The crew was friendly and helpful--especially when I was trying to get the kids in and out of the boat [and when my son asked for more cookies!].
Once on the water, at least two crew members were floating around on surfboards teaching, offering advice, and helping us swim back to the boat if we were too tired.
It was a little scary to be afloat in the big ocean, but I felt more confident knowing that there were at least 3 people keeping eyes on the water at all times... we even saw 2 pods of dolphins!
On October 12th, I went on an adventure aboard the Captain Zodiac. The weather was incredibly nice, hot, and the sun was strong, but as a result, the sea and sky were beautifully clear and blue. Aside from us, there were two couples of foreign tourists, and everyone was friendly, creating a cheerful atmosphere from the moment we set off.
First, we headed out to sea at an amazing speed that made me feel like we might be blown away. Suddenly, we stopped in the middle of the deep blue sea, and the captain said, "Everyone, feel free to jump into the water," as he lowered the ladder. Everyone joyfully jumped into the sea. My husband dove in headfirst. I was a bit taken aback and stayed on the boat. Soon everyone returned, but when the captain asked, "Is there anyone who has any regrets?" one man pointed at me and joked, "She hasn't gone into the water!" I laughed and said, "Oh, I'm a little scared!" and everyone laughed along with me.
After that, we went snorkeling at the Captain Cook monument. The water was very clear, and we were able to see so many fish. Right nearby, there were many wild dolphins swimming, coming close to the boat, suddenly jumping, and swimming at incredible speeds; they were so cute. On the boat, we enjoyed sandwiches, fruits, and snacks while chatting happily, and we had a wonderful time. I thoroughly enjoyed the waters of Hawaii.
10月12日キャプテンソディアック号のアドベンチャーに行ってきました。天気は良すぎるくらいに良くて、暑くて日差しも強かったですが、その分海と空は真っ青に澄み切って綺麗でした。私達以外は外国人のご夫婦が2組でしたが、みなさん気さくで、出発した時から和気あいあいとした雰囲気でした。まずは吹っ飛ばされるのではと思うぐらいの物凄いスピードで沖に向かいました。そして突然どこまでも深く青い海のど真ん中で停止し、キャプテンが「みなさん好きなように海に入って下さい」と言って梯子を下ろしました。みんな喜んで海に飛び込んでいきます。主人も頭から飛び込みをしていました。私は少々面食らってしまい、船の上に留まっていました。すぐにみなさん戻って来ましたが、キャプテンが「みなさん思い残すことはない?」と質問すると、一人の男性が私を指さし「彼女が海に入っていない!」と冗談を言いました。私は「え~、ちょっと怖くって!」と言って笑ってごまかすと、みんなも一緒に笑っていました。その後はキャプテンクックの碑のところでシュノーケリングをしました。透明度が良く本当にたくさんの魚を見ることができました。すぐ近くでは野生のイルカたちがたくさん泳いでいて、船の近くまで寄ってきて突然ジャンプして見せたり、すごいスピードで泳いだりしてとてもかわいかったです。船上ではサンドイッチや果物、スナックなどを皆で楽しく話しながら食べて、とても楽しい時間を過ごすことが出来ました。ハワイの海を大満喫しました。
We participated in the morning tour as a couple. Three days before the tour, I made a reconfirmation call from the front desk of our hotel (King Kamehameha), but we struggled to communicate (neither of us speaks much English), so we had to ask a hotel staff member to assist us.
On the day of the tour, we took a taxi to the meeting point, which cost about $30 (including tip). After checking in, we received some instructions from the tour guide in front of the boat, but since there was no roof, it was very hot, and I was worried about getting sunburned.
It took about an hour to reach the snorkeling spot. During that time, we could help ourselves to breakfast items like muffins, croissants, and fruits. After that, the tour staff came around to lend us fins, so we communicated our shoe sizes (in US sizes).
When we arrived at the Captain Cook Monument, there was a brief explanation before we started snorkeling. I brought anti-fog solution for my snorkeling mask from Japan, but there was some available on the boat as well.
The water was more transparent than I had imagined, and I was thrilled. There were various fish, and we swam while holding hands. Before participating, I was concerned about the depth of the ocean, but perhaps because we were wearing flotation devices, I didn't feel scared even when we went deeper.
After about an hour of swimming, we had lunch when we heard a signal of "ding ding ding." I think we were able to snorkel for almost another hour after lunch. The return boat was quite rocky, so I was glad I took motion sickness medication.
We chose seats on the first floor, so we didn't have to worry about the sun on the way there, and the breeze felt nice, but on the way back, it was cold because we were wet. The women's restroom on the boat had a broken lock, but it was clean.
On the way back, we encountered a pod of wild dolphins, and the boat stopped for a while to let us see them. We even got to see the dolphins jump. I would love to participate again.
午前のツアーに夫婦で参加しました。
ツアー3日前に宿泊ホテル(キングカメハメハ)のフロントからリコンファームの電話をかけましたが、上手く会話ができず(二人ともほとんど英語が話せません)、途中でホテルの人にかわってもらい対応してもらいました。
当日はタクシーで集合場所へ向かいました。※30ドル(チップ込み)
チェックイン後、出航前に船の前でツアーの人から注意点等の説明をうけますが、屋根がない場所だったため、とても暑く日焼けが気になりました。
シュノーケリングスポットまでは約一時間。その間、マフィンやクロワッサン・フルーツなどの朝食がセルフで食べられます。そのあとフィンの貸し出しのためツアーの人たちがまわってきてくれますので、自分の足のサイズ(アメリカサイズ)を伝えます。
キャプテンクック記念碑の前につくと、また少し説明があった後シュノーケリングスタートです。日本からシュノーケリングマスクの曇り止め液をもっていきましたが、船内にもありました。
海の中は、想像以上に透明で感激しました。いろんな魚がいて、二人で手をつなぎながら泳ぎました。参加する前は海の深さが気になっていましたが、浮き具をつけていたためか、深めの方へ行っても怖さは感じませんでした。
一時間ほど泳ぐと「カンカンカン」という合図とともに昼食の時間になります。
食後も一時間弱はシュノーケリングできたと思います。
帰りの船は結構揺れたので、酔い止めを飲んでおいて良かったです。
私たちは1階の席にしたので、行きは日差しを気にする必要がなく風も気持ちよかったのですが、帰りは体が濡れているため寒かったです。船内の女子トイレは鍵が壊れていたけどキレイです。
帰りがけに野生のイルカの群れに遭遇し、しばらく船をとめてみせてくれました。イルカのジャンプもみれました。
また参加したいです。
I participated in Heaven's Sea with high expectations, and I was completely satisfied! I had researched the tide in advance, so I knew it would be high tide, and after landing on the sandbar, I didn't have to worry about the rising water level. More than that, we were blessed with great weather, and I could feel the blue of the sky and the blue of the sea all around me. The tour ended in the blink of an eye. Fun times always seem to fly by, right? (laughs) During the tour, I was also able to see a honu! I definitely want to go back to Heaven's Sea.
かなり期待をして参加した天国の海、もう大満足でした!潮位も予め調べて参加したので、満ち潮であることも調査済みでしたので、サンドバーに上陸後、水位が上がってきても気にすることはありませんでした。それよりも、天気に恵まれ、空の青、海の青を全身で感じることが出来、ツアーはあっという間に終わりました。楽しい時間はすぐに終わってしまいますね笑
ツアー中はホヌにも会うことが出来ました!天国の海、是非また行きたいです。
On the bus heading to the sandbar, a cheerful older man was talking non-stop in English, so it might be tough for those who are not good at English. Since the air conditioning was very strong, I think it's a good idea to bring something to wear over your clothes.
As for the sandbar... I had imagined it based on the photos on the website, but in reality, the water came up to about my waist. I guess it's my fault for not knowing that was a possibility.
The BBQ lunch was just a regular hamburger. It was quite ordinary.
I think I saw about two sea turtles?
For snorkeling, they took us to a place with coral and said, "Please feel free to swim." The weather was bad and it was very cold.
I was disappointed because I had high expectations. I felt it was a waste to spend a whole day like this. If the weather had been good, it might have been different.
サンドバーへ向かうバスの中は、陽気なおじさんがひたすら英語でしゃべっていたので、英語が苦手な方はつらいかも?クーラーガンガンなので、羽織るものを持っていくとよいと思います。
サンドバーは。。。HPに掲載されている写真をイメージしていましたが、実際は腰の辺りまで海面がきていました。その可能性があること知らなかった自分が悪いですね。
BBQランチはただのハンバーガーです。至って普通です。
ウミガメは2頭ぐらい見えたかな?って感じです。
シュノーケリングも、サンゴのある所に連れて行ってくれて、「どうぞ自由に泳いでください」みたいな感じです。天気も悪く、とても寒かったです。
期待しすぎた分、がっかりしました。私は、これで一日がつぶれるのはもったいないと感じました。天気が良ければ違ったかもしれませんね。
Great crew as it was full service. Food and drinks were good and plenty to go around. Water was very clear. We saw a white tip shark, turtle, plenty of colorful fish and an amazing starfish which was like a spider. Ross was our personal Snubba coach and he was top professional. Yes we would do it again.
A fantastic experience,the mantas come as close as the say! A great tour with experienced helpful guides.
Aloha and thank you so much for taking the time to review your trip with us.
We are so happy you enjoyed yourself and hope to see you again soon.
Mahalo!
I participated with my 80-year-old mother. The guides were really kind and carried my mother to the sandbar. Thank you very much. Since the weather can change quickly, it's good to have something to cover up with, as well as an umbrella or raincoat. Bring a swimsuit, shorts, beach sandals, and a hotel towel. You can get on the bus just as you are on the way back. The snorkeling time is quite short, so it's best to think of it as just a little experience. You can see sea turtles and take photos at the sandbar, making for a really enjoyable half-day.
80才の母と参加しました。ガイドさんたちが本当に親切で、母を抱えてサンドバーまで連れてきてくれました。ありがとうございました。天候が変わりやすいので何かはおるものと傘か合羽があると良いです。水着に短パン、ビーチサンダル、ホテルのタオル。帰りはそのままバスに乗り込めます。シュノーケルの時間はほんの少しなので、体験程度と思った方が良いです。ウミガメを見たりサンドバーで写真を撮ったり、なかなか楽しい半日が過ごせますよ。
The day we arrived at the sandbar was just at low tide, so we were able to stay for about two hours. We snorkeled and took photos. We were also able to see honu (sea turtles) nearby. I had seen it in commercials and had always wanted to visit, and it was indeed a beautiful place, just as I expected. I think it's a good idea to check the tide schedule before booking a tour.
サンドバーにあがったその日はちょうど干潮でしたので2時間くらい滞在することができました。シュノーケルしたり写真を撮ったり。近くではホヌ(海がめ)を見ることもできました。CMでも見たことがあって、一度は行ってみたいと思っていましたが、予想通りほんとに綺麗な場所でした。ツアーに参加予約される前に潮の干満を調べておいた方が良いと思います。
Reccomend this activity for those who can swim and in good shape. I've always wanted to scuba dive and this was a great solution without buy equipment.Ross was the instructor who took great care for our safety. Fish, starfish, urchins, shark and a huge turtle were seen. Fabulous experience.
On my first trip to the Big Island, I participated in a manta ray snorkeling tour on the night of the supermoon! I got lost because I mixed up the meeting place, but the captain found us, and we were able to join the group safely. The warm words from our guide really helped us feel at ease.
Both the captain and the guide were very efficient, and since the tour company had a private space at the harbor, we were able to change into our wetsuits while sitting down, which made everything smooth. Once we were ready, we boarded the boat and set off immediately.
It was cloudy when we left the harbor, but we were able to catch a glimpse of the sunset as we spent about 40 minutes on the boat before arriving at the snorkeling point. I learned that there are different types of manta rays, and the one we can see around the Big Island is the "Oniitomakie," which can grow as large as 6 meters.
We quickly adjusted our snorkeling masks and entered the water. Even though it was snorkeling, we could rely on the buoyancy of the wetsuits and just stay near the light that attracted plankton, so I think even those who can't swim or are not comfortable in the water can enjoy this activity.
Within about 5 to 10 minutes, manta rays came to us! They opened their mouths wide, floated on their backs to take in plankton, and kept circling back to us. It was amazing to see them up close, even though we weren't allowed to touch them; they came so close that it felt like they were bumping into us! It was truly moving! Seeing wild manta rays at such a close distance, even closer than at an aquarium, felt like a dream! We were able to see two smaller manta rays and two medium-sized ones repeatedly, so we got to enjoy watching four of them multiple times.
After the tour, we were treated to warm cocoa, snacks, and cereal bars to take care of our bodies. On the way back, we cruised under the full moon! It was the best tour where we could experience a sense of unity with nature!
今回初めてのハワイ島旅行で、スーパームーンの夜にマンタシュノーケルのツアーへ参加しました!!
待ち合わせ場所を間違え迷ってしまったのですが、船長が私たちを発見してくれ無事合流、ガイドさんの大変暖かい言葉にとても救われました。
船長もガイドさんも手際がよく、又ツアー会社がハーバーにプライベートスペースを持っていたためウェットスーツへの着替えも椅子に座ってできたためスムーズ。支度を済ませたらボートに乗り込みすぐに出発。
ハーバーから曇っていたけどちょっと見れた夕焼けを背に40分程度船に乗りシュノーケルポイントに到着。
「マンタ」と言っても種類があるそうで、ハワイ島で見ることが出来るのは「オニイトマキエイ」というマンタで、大きなものは6mもあるそうです。
私たちもシュノーケルマスクを合わせてすぐに着水。シュノーケルと言ってもウェットスーツの浮力を使い、プランクトンを引き寄せるライトに捕まっているだけでよいので、泳げない人でも極端な話水が苦手な人でも出来るアクティビティだと思います。
開始5~10分程度ですぐに私たちのところもマンタが来てくれました!!
大きく口を空けて仰向けになってプランクトンを取り込みくるりと回りまた仰向けになり・・を繰り返して何度も来てくれました!!
触ってはいけないのですが、向こうからぶつかってくる程目の前で見ることが出来て、とても感動的です!!水族館のガラスに張り付くよりも近い距離で野生のマンタが見れるなんて夢みたいでした!
私たちの所には2匹の小さめのマンタと2匹の中くらいのマンタが繰り返し来てくれて、4匹を何度も見ることが出来ました☆
終わった後は暖かいココアとお菓子やシリアルバーで身体に気を遣っていただきました。帰りは満月の下をクルーズして帰りました!自然との一体感を味わえる最高のツアーでした☆
The day we participated was cloudy, and the water level was high, so we couldn't see the sandbar. However, the water was incredibly clear, and it was transparent in the shallow areas. In the snorkeling spots, it was a bit dark and murky, but we could see plenty of fish and coral. And the hamburger for lunch was really delicious! (laughs)
私たちが参加した日は曇りで水位も高くサンドバーは見れませんでした‐‐;
ですが水はめちゃくちゃ綺麗で浅瀬では透き通っていました。シュノーケリングする所では
多少暗くて濁ってはいましたが、魚や珊瑚もばっちり見れました^^
そしてお昼のハンバーガーがめっちゃ美味しかったです!!(笑)
Snorkeling was fun! I was able to see fish! On the way back on the bus, it was too cold. I wished they wouldn't blast the air conditioning since everyone was wet.
シュノーケリング楽しかった!魚もみれました!帰りのバスの中、寒すぎ。みんな体濡れているから、クーラーガンガンつけないでほしかった
My husband, mom and I went on the Fair Wind Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Sail. We had a great time the staff was awesome. The boat was very clean and beautiful. My mom is 75 and didn't snorkel but the crew was very nice and made sure she had everything she needed. When we return to Kona we will take this cruise again. The crew was very knowledgeable and made sure we knew everything we were seeing. The families with kids looked like they were having a great time especially on the high dive and slides. The area we went to was beautiful. We saw a shark hiding in the reef and many beautiful fish and coral. The food was great.
We recently went on the Maui to Lanai Dolphin watch and snorkel trip. Unfortunately not under the control of the crew but the weather was not great and winds were strong enough that we could not make the trip to Lanai. I would have rescheduled as they gave us that as an option but we left the next day so it was not possible. So instead the captain tried to make the best of it by taking us down the west coast of Maui. We stopped at the first snorkel spot and it was good- really far from the reefs so kind of difficult to see much. They gave us about an hour here and then we were supposed to move further south to the next location. When we arrived the weather had picked up so she turned around to head back. They finally settled on a location to let us snorkel again and the seas were rough- better snorkeling though once we got in. However they didn't leave us much time in the water and by the time we got out they said we were to close to the harbor to even have our free drink allowance so 3 people in our party missed out on that :( Bummer since they wouldn't serve it to us prior to snorkeling. Didn't get to see dolphins either (which is why my son wanted to take this trip) but I also know that is not guaranteed. Overall the crew made the best of a bad weather situation. Maybe next time.....
When they say "Turtles Guaranteed", they are not joking. After a quick sail from the harbor to the snorkel (about 15 to 20 minutes) we dived in to see like six or seven large Hawaiian green sea turtles relaxing beneath us. It was absolutely incredible :D
The spot they took us to is this amazing location where turtles like to congregate and chill out while they get their shells cleaned off by schools of fish. Since we went on the morning snorkel, we beat the crowds and got to swim and snorkel leisurely without any fuss.
I didn't think to bring a GoPro or an underwater camera, but if you have one, or can get your hands on one, DO IT! The photo opportunities are amazing. The turtles like to lazily swim around and they are just so photogenic.
Great tour! Can't wait to go again!!!
Ah Man! What an amazing trip. I was a bit weary on the afternoon of since the weather report was not promising any sun. But the sunset was probably the most beautiful I have ever seen. The colors that crusted the clouds were just tear jerking. The crew was so friendly and laid back, food was healthy and tasty, beer was cold, the coastline was misty, water dark blue ... it felt so good to be there at that moment. Cheers to Ocean Joy and VELTRA for making this short trip back to the islands so much fun.
This sail packs in so much in the perfect amount of time. Not only do you get to sail along the west coast of Oahu, but you get to visit a great snorkel spot, eat your fill of delicious food and guzzle down lots of drinks!
I have done a lot of regular dinner cruises in Hawaii and in other states, but this one is definitely the most unique and you totally get a great bang for your buck. Since you are on the west side, you are literally right there as the sun dips below the horizon, and with a steady stream of drinks and as much food as you can eat, there isn't anything better!!!
The drive is like 40 minutes from Waikiki, but the transportation was comfortable and on-time. Great option if you don't want to drive and definitely a "must do" if everyone in your party is planning on knocking back a few.
Be sure to bring some cash to buy the photos that they take of you. The photographer is fantastic and takes TONS of pictures throughout the cruise, both in and out of the water. They put it on a USB drive for you and that way you don't have to worry about snapping shots and can just focus on having fun ^_^
Best. Dinner. Snorkel. Sunset. Cruise. EVAR!
This was my first time participating, and since it was our honeymoon in Hawaii, I decided to join because I heard there was a place to swim with dolphins. I had been to Hawaii a few times before, but this was a special occasion.
Swimming with dolphins has been a dream of mine since childhood, and I was nervous the day before, but once I got on the bus, the powerful staff's stories were so entertaining that my sleepiness and anxiety disappeared!
Since the dolphins are wild, there’s no guarantee you’ll see them, so I was excited as we boarded the boat. Just five minutes after boarding, we suddenly encountered a pod of dolphins. The clear sea and the dolphins swimming together were truly mystical, and I experienced emotions like never before. I was overwhelmed to have this experience three times!
The program was already more than enough, but during the snorkeling afterward, I was able to see many turtles and Hawaiian fish, and I even got to try paddle surfing, which I had always wanted to do. I was very satisfied!
The hamburger for lunch was also very delicious! It was impressive how everyone came together for the final hula dance, creating a lively atmosphere.
I want to bring my children here someday! It became a wonderful memory!
今回初めての参加でした、新婚旅行でのハワイ、ハワイには何回かは行っていたのですがイルカと泳げる所があると言うことで新婚旅行だったので初めて参加しようと決めました。
小さい頃からの夢、イルカと泳ぐ事が出来ると前日から緊張していたのですが、バスに入ったらパワフルなスタッフの方の話がとても面白く眠さと緊張も吹き飛びました!!
イルカは野生なので100%出会えるわけではないと言うことでドキドキしながらボートに乗船、乗船してから5分後いきなりイルカに出会える事が出来ました、透き通る海にイルカの群れがなんとも神秘的で今までにない感動を味わいました、それも三回も味わう事が出来て感無量でした。
これまでのプログラムでも充分でしたが、その後のシュノーケルでは亀やハワイの魚と沢山見るとことができ、一度やってみたかったパドルサーフィンにもチャレンジ出来て大満足でした!!
ランチのハンバーガーもとてもおいしく!!最後みんなでやるフラダンスで一致団結して盛り上がったのも印象的でした。
子供が出来たら連れていきたいと思います!!とてもよい思い出になりました!
Thank you for participating. We're glad you enjoyed it. We look forward to your next participation!
ご参加頂きましてありがとうございました。お楽しみ頂けて何よりです。またのご参加をお待ちしております!
This time, I participated in a family trip with three generations. Since I have a 0-year-old and a 2-year-old, I chose this tour that allows children to join. The guide was very kind and attentive to the kids. Additionally, we were able to take photos in various poses, resulting in wonderful memories. I would like to participate again the next time I go to Hawaii.
今回は3世代での家族旅行で参加させて頂きました。0歳と2歳の子供がいるので子供参加オーケーのこのツアーを選びました。
ガイドの方は大変親切で子供にも気を配って頂きました。また、写真を様々なポーズで撮って頂きとても良い思い出写真が出来ました。次回ハワイに行く際もまた参加したいと思います。
It was low tide, so we couldn't meet the sea turtles, but it was a fun tour!
I borrowed a wetsuit ($10) to avoid sunburn and keep my body warm. I was able to swim without getting cold.
Thank you, Dan and Chieko!
引き潮だったので、ウミガメちゃんには遭えませんでしたが、楽しいツアーでした♪
日焼けと体温温存のためにウェットスーツをお借りしました。($10)
身体も冷えることなく、泳いでいられました。
ダンさん、チエコさん
ありがとうございました
I'm glad to hear you enjoyed it! During low tide, the water clarity is great, so I hope you were able to see a variety of fish. Please come back for another tour when you're in Hawaii. Thank you!!
楽しんでいただけたようで良かったです!引き潮の時は透明度が良いのでお魚はいろいろな種類を見ていただけたかと思います。ぜひまたハワイにお越しの際にはツアーに来て下さいね。ありがとうございました!!
Last year, I couldn't participate due to being fully booked because I applied at the last minute, but this year I made a reservation about two months in advance and was looking forward to it. The weather on the day was decent. I arrived with high hopes of what the heavenly sea would be like. The sandbar had water up to my knees. However, this was unavoidable due to the tide... I was expecting to see something during the next snorkeling session, but I found myself wondering what they wanted to show us at a point where we just lined up with masks and no fins, going back and forth a bit before it ended. I was left thinking that Hawaii is really not a place to play in the sea.
去年は間際の申し込みで満員のため果たせず、今年は約2ヶ月前に予約し楽しみにして参加しました。当日の天気はまずまず。さあ天国の海はどんな風かと期待に胸を膨らませ 到着。サンドバーは膝ぐらいまでの水の下。しかしこれも潮位のことでやむを得ない...。次のシュノーケリングで何かを...と期待していたけれどここで何を見せたいの?と思うポイントをマスクのみフィンなしで行列して少し往復しておしまい。???と思わせる海中の景色にハワイはやっぱり海で遊ぶところではないと深ーく思った次第です。
Thank you for joining the tour the other day. The ocean view shows various expressions depending on the day. Please come back to experience the beautiful Hawaiian sea again! Mahalo!
先日はツアーにご参加ありがとうございました。海の景色はその日によって色々な表情を見せてくれます。
美しいハワイの海に出会いにまたぜひ!遊びに来て下さいね。マハロ!
Best snorkel cruise I've been on! The crew were great and you can tell they enjoy their jobs. They were all friendly and personable. They made the experience what is was. Unfortunately I am bad with names, but the crew member who spoke all the different languages was fantastic and so was our photographer (local girl).
I had been searching for a tour where I could see and swim with dolphins in the ocean, and I finally found one. I was truly moved when I spotted a pod of dolphins swimming. Moreover, I was able to hear their calls, which was a very precious experience.
The underwater world was amazing, but the view of the mountains, landscapes, and sky from the surface was also incredibly beautiful. I was able to fully immerse myself in nature by diving and floating on my back.
After dolphin watching, there was free time for snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, and canoeing, allowing everyone to enjoy their time in the ocean. I was thrilled to swim alongside a sea turtle, and it was so cute.
Unfortunately, there was a sudden issue with another guest that required us to return to the port, so I was disappointed that I couldn't enjoy the anticipated BBQ on the boat or the hula lesson. However, I felt reassured by the crew's quick response and believe this is a tour I can participate in with confidence.
I would love to join again if the opportunity arises. The taro burger was also delicious.
海の中でイルカを見たり、泳げたり出来るツアーをずっと探していてやっと出会えたツアーです。
イルカの群れを見つけ泳ぐ姿を目にした時は本当に感動しました。
しかもイルカの鳴き声も聞くことが出来て、とても貴重な体験をさせていただきました。
水の中の世界も素晴らしかったけど、水面から見える山や、風景、空の景色も最高にきれいで、もぐったり、仰向けで浮かんだりと大自然を身体いっぱいに感じることが出来ました。
イルカウォッチングの後にはフリーのシュノーケルの時間やサップ、カヌー等のアクティビティもあり、海あそびをそれぞれが思い思いに、楽しむ時間もあり楽しかったです。
その時にウミガメも真横で一緒に泳ぐことが出来てうれしかったし、とてもかわいかったです。
途中他のお客さんにトラブルがあり急遽港に戻ることになったので、楽しみにしていた船上BBQやフラレッスンが楽しめなかったのがとても残念でしたが、その時のクルーの人達の迅速な対応を見て安心して参加出来るツアーだと思いました。
また機会があれば参加したいと思います。
タロイモバーガーも美味しかったです。
I was worried because it was early in the morning, but surprisingly, it was fine. I took a bus for about 45 minutes to the port, and after a 10-minute boat ride, we arrived at the sandbar. The short boat ride meant I didn't get seasick and was able to enjoy it fully. I had planned to go snorkeling, but unfortunately, it was canceled that day due to faster waves than usual. I hope to participate again next time and enjoy snorkeling. The excitement of standing on the sandbar is something you have to experience to understand. I'm glad I participated.
早朝なので心配していたのですが、意外に大丈夫でした。港まで45分位バスに乗り、10分位の乗船でサンドバーに着きました。短い乗船なので船酔いする事もなく十分楽しめました。シュノーケリングをする予定だったのですが、その日はいつもより波が速いとの事で中止になり残念でした。次回はまたぜひ参加してシュノーケリングを楽しめればと思います。サンドバーに立った時の感激は経験してみないとわかりません。参加して良かったと思っています。
This was my second time in Hawaii, and I experienced snorkeling for the first time on this tour.
I must say, the quality at this price is exceptional—wonderful sea, food, and time management. There are Japanese staff members present, and there are restrooms on the boat. Drinks are free, and alcohol, including beer and wine, is all $5, payable on the spot.
When sea turtles appear, the staff shouts, "Look at 9 o'clock! 3 o'clock! 1 o'clock!" as they briefly come up for air. I saw many of them too!
Moreover, this is the sea of Sandbar, where my favorite movie Top Gun, starring Tom Cruise, was filmed, as well as scenes from Pirates of the Caribbean. It was truly moving. I highly recommend it.
As the season changes, it can get a bit chilly. A jacket or something similar is essential, and there are warm drinks available. You can return to the hotel in your swimsuit!
This is a half-day optional tour, and it starts early but is very satisfying overall. Thank you very much!
Thanks to this experience, I am now planning my first diving trip in Kerama, Japan.
ハワイは二回目で、初のシュノーケルをこのツア-で体験しました。
なんと言ってもこのプライスでここまでのクオリティはないかなあと言う位 素晴らしい海、食事、時間配分でした。
ちゃんと日本人スタッフいますし、
船内にはトイレもあります。
飲み物も無料です。
アルコ-ルは ビ-ル、ワイン 全て5ドルで、その場で後から払います。
海ガメが出ると
「はい九時の方向~❗、3時~❗、1時~❗」と 一瞬 息つぎのために顔を出すのでスタッフが叫んでくれます。
私もたくさんみましたよ❤
しかも大好きなトムクル-ズ トップガンの撮影、
パイレーツカリビアンの撮影現場などがここサンドバ-の海。
感動もひとしおです。
絶対お勧めです。
今からの季節、少し寒くなります。
濡れてもいい、パーカ-などは必須です。
また温かい飲み物もあります。
ホテルには水着のまま帰れますよ✨
オプショナルとして半日のツア-だし、朝早くないし とにかく大満足のツア-
ありがとうございました
お陰さまで、次は日本の慶良間に初ダイビングを予定してます。