Reviewed by: Scott Taylor
Picked up on time from our Hotel. Driver was very friendly, his helper was kind enough but quite young and she decided to get some sleep on the way to the ship, she must have had a late night bless her!(Not very professional!).
Onboard, breakfast was good and definitely worth the extra, you could help yourself as much as you like. Unfortunately we didn't actually get to see any whales on this trip so we were offered a free ticket for another day, which is very fair, however we did have to pay again for transportation which I think should have also been included. We also paid again for breakfast because it was worth it.
Our second cruise however we did finally get to see some whales which was great, as this was our main reason for coming to Oahu at this time of year.
Overall it's a very worthwhile trip to go on, even just for the views of Honolulu and the Breakfast.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Whale Watching Cruise with Breakfast Buffet - Most Popular! (2 Hours) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/18 |
Reviewed by: Jesper
Molokini is not as stunning a snorkel spot as some say: there's only a select variety of fish and there's no impressive coral reef. The water is very clear though. But there are definitely much better snorkeling options elsewhere to be found.
We had a muddy water day for Turtle Town sadly, but I got to see a turtle nonetheless, which was nice.
The tour organisation was class though, well-spirited. Breakfast was decent, lunch was very good. And there were a lot of whales to be seen! I must say that even with Molokini not completely living up to its reputation I had a good fun day. Time well-spent.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Standard Package |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/21 |
Reviewed by: Chris
We were picked up by a friendly gentleman who treated my older travelers very respectfully. When we got to the harbor the captain was very thorough yet fun with the way he spoke to us. We knew exactly what to expect and what to do.
When we got going, the crew was very friendly and spent a lot of time talking to us about whales and whatever else we wanted to ask about. They were very upbeat and wiling to get us drinks at any time. The boat was clean and the music was good.
I've been on many whale watching cruises and I would recommend this outfit to anyone. From the captain, who speaks fluent Japanese, all the way down the crew these people have passion for what they do and it shows.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/06 |
Reviewed by: Arysa
We started our activity by getting picked up at our hotel by a friendly shuttle driver. We were with my mother-in-law and her sister. The driver suggested they used hotel restroom before we left, which was very nice, considering they were elderly and the restroom on the boat can be a little tricky to say the least.
When we got to the shipyard we were greeted by the captain and the crew. They were very thorough and professional.
We set off to find whales and the crew was very accommodating and interacted with everyone. They always asked if we needed anything.
We didn't have much luck spotting whales this day. We spotted a few in the distance and finally a mom and baby after looking an extra 30 minutes past our scheduled time.
Not really their fault, but a little disappointing.
I would recommend these folks. They are a good crew.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/09 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/06 |
Reviewed by: kaorin
I participated in January, but I couldn't see anything due to the weather (cloudy skies). Please understand that there is a possibility of not being able to see anything when you participate. However, I was able to see flying fish and a U.S. Navy submarine.
1月に参加しましたが、天候の関係(曇天)?のため見られませんでした。
見られない可能性もある事を理解して参加願います。
ただし、トビウオとアメリカ海軍の潜水艦を見ることができました。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | <午前プラン>朝食付き |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/08 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/14 |
Reviewed by: Jen
Amazing and informative crew. Along with amazing wildlife and sunset!!! Can't wait to go again!!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Sunset Sail |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/18 |
Reviewed by: ふりっぷ
I had some doubts about how much we would be able to see, but we were able to observe a baby whale showing its tail and spouting water. The location was off the coast of the Kahala Hotel.
どれだけ見ることができるのかは疑問があったものの、子供鯨が尾びれを見せたり、潮吹きをしたりするところを観察できました。場所は、カハラホテル沖でしたね。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | ホエールウォッチ<2020年12月31日まで> |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/30 |
Reviewed by: Deb Stuckey
I was a little leary about swimming with Manta Rays at night in the ocean....but I knew I would regret not doing it. WHAT an experience!! The highlight of our trip. It was amazing to float on the water with those gigantic rays swimming literally inches from your body. I would highly recommend this to anyone!
Aloha Deb~ We are so happy you enjoyed your night out on the water on the manta ray tour! Safe travels, and we hope to see you back again with us here at Sea Paradise.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Standard |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/07 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/16 |
Reviewed by: 孫悟空
I always wanted to visit Sea Life Park! It felt like I was really in Hawaii, and I participated with excitement. The dolphins were so cute, and it was very healing for my heart. To get to Sea Life Park, you would need to use a trolley if you don't have a rental car, which could be time-restricted, so I signed up for this tour. I'm glad I was able to enjoy it at a leisurely pace.
一度は行きたかったシーライフパーク!ハワイに来たという感じで、ワクワクしながら参加しました。イルカがとても可愛くて、心が癒されました。シーライフパークに行くにはレンタカーがなければトロリー利用になり、時間の制約ありそうなので、このツァーに申込みました。ゆっくり楽しめてよかったです。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | イルカと遊ぶ!ドルフィン・エンカウンター |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/06 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/01 |
Reviewed by: Stephen Bernstein
You guarantee seeing whales and that is just what we did. It was very exiting for my first time.
Everyone was professional, well informed and provided great service.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Cruise |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/04 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/02/01 |
Reviewed by: yacco
I had such a great time last time that this time I participated with my parents and my sister's family. While we were in the sea, the staff took care of my 2-year-old child, allowing us to enjoy ourselves to the fullest. My parents also said they had a great time.
前回がとても楽しかったので、今回は父母と妹家族と一緒に参加しました。海に入っている時は、スタッフの方に2歳の子どもを預かっていただき、思いっきり楽しめました。父母も楽しかったと言っていました。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | おすすめプラン<2015年3月末まで> |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/03 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/05 |
Reviewed by: SHINSHIN
Initially, I had a rather casual expectation, but from the very beginning, I was able to experience a lot of surprises and excitement, and I am very satisfied.
最初勝手なイメージで、期待はそこそこだったのですが最初から驚きと
感激が多く味わう事が出来、大変満足しています
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | スタンダード・サブマリン<定員48名>(2018年12月31日まで) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/02 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/30 |
Reviewed by: drcallycat
We went with this trip after looking at more expensive ones. Glad we chose this company as they were super helpful with snorkeling safety and tips but were also fun and laid back. We saw turtles as well as all sorts of fish and a whale. Great afternoon , just wish we'd stayed out longer.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Snorkel Cruise (100% Capacity) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/02 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/30 |
Reviewed by: ハワイF
I participated in the lunch package from the Ko Olina area. There were few participants from Ko Olina, just two groups including us. However, we were warmly welcomed by a large bus. The buffet was more delicious and varied than I expected, but while we were away from our seats to see the whales, we couldn't access the food area anymore. It seems better to keep your seat before getting up. We were able to see quite a few whales! I couldn't take many photos, but I would love to participate again.
ランチ付をコオリナ地区から参加しました。
コオリナからの参加者は少なく私達をふくめ二組でした。しかし、大型バスで丁寧にお迎えきました。
そして、ビュッフェは予想よりは美味しいく種類豊富、しかし、クジラ見に席離れている間に料理のスペースは入れなくなりました。
席立つ前にキープした方が良さそうです。
肝心クジラは結構みれました‼写真には中々撮れなかったけど。また、参加したいです。
Thank you very much for boarding with us this time. We sincerely look forward to welcoming you aboard again when you visit Hawaii.
この度は、ご乗船頂きまして、誠にありがとうございます。また、ハワイにお越しの際には、是非ご乗船頂けます様、スタッフ一同心よりお待ち申しあげます。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 【早割】 ゆったり午後プラン(昼食付き) |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/02 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/13 |
Reviewed by: ハワイ大好き
I used the service at the end of January. The shuttle was 30 minutes late without any notice, and the light snacks were stale. The staff couldn't speak any Japanese at all. I didn't see any whales anywhere.
1月末に利用しました。
送迎は連絡もなく30分遅刻、軽食のスナックはしけてました。スタッフは日本語は全く喋れません。クジラもどこにも見れませんでした。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 午前プラン<~2020/12/17> |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/02/01 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/29 |
Reviewed by: TAKAYUKI
It was a large ship. There were many Americans and English speakers on board. When we reached the point, there was an announcement about the direction at around 〇〇 o'clock, and we were able to see something that looked like a whale, but we couldn't see its face. However, we were able to confirm several instances of it spouting water, so that was good.
大きな船でした。アメリカ人?英語を話す人が非常に多く乗船していました。ポイントに来ると〇〇時の方向とアナウンス、鯨らしきものは見ることが出来ましたが顔は見ることが出来ませんでした。でも何回か潮を噴き上げる場面は確認出来たので良かったです。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | <午前プラン>朝食付き |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/09 |
Reviewed by: おちょ
It was advertised that if you couldn't see anything, the next time would be free. Although it was within one season... Occasionally, there were announcements about what could be seen in the direction of a certain time, but the atmosphere among the passengers was quite dull, thinking it might not be possible to see anything, or that it might be a lie. However, by chance, I was able to see just the tail of a whale! My husband said he saw it from the back. I never expected to see it so close to the hotels in Honolulu. Still, since most people couldn't see anything, they announced that the next time would be free. I didn't order food, but when I asked for coffee, refills were free. It's cold during this season, so a windproof jacket is necessary. I was also wearing several long sleeves underneath.
見れなかったら次回無料というフレコミでした。1シーズン内ではありますが・・
たまに〇時の方向に何が見えるとかのアナウンスがあるのですが、見れなそう~、ウソなんじゃない~、と乗客一同ダルダルな雰囲気でしたが
偶然にもくじらのしっぽだけを見れました!主人は背中の方から見れたそうです。
まさかホノルルのホテル群が間近にある海で見られるとは思いもしませんでした。
それでも殆どの方は見れなかったので、次回無料のアナウンスになっていました。
ご飯はオーダーしませんでしたがコーヒーを頼んだところ、レフィルは無料でした。
この季節は寒いので風を通さない上着が必要です。下にも何枚も長袖を着ていました。
Thank you very much for joining our cruise.
You can observe whales just outside Waikiki and Aloha Tower.
On certain days, you may encounter very active whales, and you can see their spectacular jumps.
It's unfortunate that it turned into a rain check, but please do come back and challenge it again.
All of our staff are looking forward to your next visit.
Star of Honolulu
Reservations Department
この度は私共のクルーズにご参加頂き、誠に有難うございました。
ワイキキやアロハタワーを出てすぐの所で鯨が観測できます。
日によってはとてもアクティブな鯨に遭遇する事ができ、鯨の豪快なジャンプなども見られます。
レインチェックになってしまったのは残念ですが、是非またチャレンジしにいらして下さい。
皆様のまたのお越しをスタッフ一同お待ち申し上げております。
スターオブホノルル
予約課
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | ホエールウォッチ<2020年12月31日まで> |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/02 |
Reviewed by: Tahany Albaiz
My experience at the Atlantis submarine was splendid. Unbelievable experience that I would definitely repeat again amd again. Till this moment I think the trip was a dream to me. I think it was a dream, it wasn't real J.
unfortunately, Saudi Arabia is far far away from Maui and repeating the fantastic experience is somehow not easy. I strongly recommend people of all ages, all backgrounds to try the submarine. I posted all photos on my instagram and followes are so surprized that they think it was unreal !!!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | With West Maui Transportation [9:00AM Dive Only] |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/07 |
Reviewed by: Mah
It's nice experience especially for those who haven't tried diving. The stuff was very friendly and helpful. Just you need to know that you don't have any control on the scooter. You have to set and enjoy!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | BOB's Underwater Scooter Adventure (With Transportation) |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/07 |
Reviewed by: pepperloni
The food was delicious, and I wanted to eat more. I also enjoyed the flower lei class. I would like to participate again.
食事がおいしく、もっとたくさん食べたかったです。
フラワーレイの教室も楽しめました。
また参加したいです。
Thank you very much for participating in our cruise. We are very pleased to hear that you enjoyed the lei-making class.
All of our staff looks forward to welcoming you again.
Star of Honolulu
Reservations Department
この度は私共のクルーズにご参加頂き、誠に有難うございました。
レイメイキングのクラスもお楽しみいただけました様で大変嬉しく思います。
皆様のまたのお越しをスタッフ一同お待ち申し上げております。
スターオブホノルル
予約課
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | ホエールウォッチ+カルチャー体験+昼食<2020年12月31日まで> |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/28 |
Reviewed by: Miki
We came to Hawai to celebrate my father's 70th birthday, and one of his must-do lists was the whale watching cruise.
We arrived at the harbor and the stuffs were very friendly and happy to assist us. The check in (as well as the reservation though the Veltra) was smooth and easy.
They offered us free non alcoholic beverages and snacks(fruits, chips and etc) at the bar on the cruise.
Once we left the harbor, the stuffs toughly us about the whales we were about to see. They were super friendly, and we learned a lot about the whales from them from this cruise which was awesome.
It was less than a 2 hr cruise with lots of focusing trying to find whales!! We saw at least 10 whales actions like a humpback breaching and tail-slapping!!
We all enjoyed it!
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/29 |
Reviewed by: Whatnao
It was ok at best. There were three crue members in this activity and beverage(Approx. five kinds of Juice) and Snacks(Chips, Cookies, Apples, and Oranges) were provided. All crue members are friendly and helpful. Clean Deck and Interior.
You hope for the whale shooting out of the water with the earth shaking splash....keep hoping. Animals are unpredictable. We did see them blow air up it, but it was very far away and nothing like the pictures! I think it is all about the "right" timing to see something like "the" picture scene. Not worth the money in my opinion. Although all crues are friendly and helpful, obviously there is nothing they can do about the whales.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 2-for-1 Review Rebate Special |
| Attended as: | Families |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/31 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/29 |
Reviewed by: otafukusan
When it comes to this season on Maui, it's all about whale watching. This time, I participated in an early morning plan that gathered at Lahaina Harbor at 7:00 AM. Since the tour was guided only in English, all the other passengers were foreigners except for us.
Although I couldn't fully catch what the guide was explaining due to my limited listening skills, the sunrise view from the boat was incredibly beautiful. We were able to see whales jumping here and there, and I had a refreshing and fulfilling time.
Waking up early is worth it. This early morning plan is also reasonably priced, so I personally highly recommend it! I definitely want to join this tour again when I visit Maui.
*When I arrived right on time at the Lahaina Cruise Company booth, there was already a large crowd. It's an easy place to find without any confusion.
*On the cruise ship, coffee and light snacks are also available for sale, so you can feel at ease even if you're hungry.
マウイ島のこの季節といえば、ホエールウォッチング。
今回、朝7:00にラハイナハーバー集合という早朝プランに参加しました。
この時間帯のツアーは英語のみのガイドという事で、乗客は私たち以外全て外国の方でした。
ガイドさんの解説は、私にリスニング力がなくきちんと聞き取れてはいませんでしたが…
それでも、船上から眺める事のできる日の出はとても美しく、
クジラのジャンプもあちらこちらで見る事ができ、爽快で充実した時間を過ごす事ができました。
早起きは三文の得。この早朝プランはお値段もリーズナブルなので、個人的にはとてもお勧めです!
またマウイ島に行く際には、是非参加したいツアーです。
※集合時間丁度に到着したラハイナクルーズカンパニーブースは、既に多くの人だかりでした。迷う事無く探しやすい場所です。
※クルーズ船内では、コーヒーや軽食も販売されていて、お腹が空いていても安心です。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 7:30出港 |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/28 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/13 |
Reviewed by: taku
We participated as a couple with our one-year-old child. We saw something that looked like a whale, but it was quite far away and just barely visible. According to the staff, there was a big whale breach yesterday, so it seems like you need a bit of luck to see that. If we had seen it, we would have been very satisfied, but since we didn't, I gave it three stars. Overall, it felt like a tour that’s okay to do just once. It was nice that there was one Japanese staff member as well.
1才の子供連れで夫婦で参加しました。鯨らしきものは見えましたが、結構遠くちょっと見えるくらいでした。スタッフが言うには昨日は鯨が大きく跳ねたらしく、それを見るには運が必要なのかなーっていう感じです。それが見れたら大満足だったんですけど、見えなかったので星三つにしました。まぁ一回参加すればいいかなって感じのツアーでした。スタッフの感じは日本人も一人いてよかったです。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | <午前プラン>朝食付き |
| Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/10 |
Reviewed by: のんた
Due to scheduling conflicts, I joined the tour that started at 1 PM, knowing it might be difficult.
There were no other Japanese people, just cheerful Americans, which added to the exotic atmosphere.
I requested a pickup from Waikiki, and although the pickup vehicle was slightly late, I felt reassured when I called and was kindly assisted by a Japanese staff member.
Once we arrived at the North Shore, we had about 30 minutes of free time, enough to grab a meal from the shrimp wagon. I was told I could eat, but since I had heard the boat would be rocky, I only took motion sickness medication.
The cruising was incredibly pleasant, and I thought I might not need the motion sickness medication, but once we were in the cage, it rocked so much that even while holding on, my legs hit the cage and I ended up with bruises, making me feel a bit nauseous.
It was tough because I was so focused on searching for sharks that I ended up colliding with the cage.
There were tiger sharks, but I was told that there weren't many today as they had escaped; I only saw two, but I was glad they were there.
When we returned, the public restroom introduced by the staff was closed, and the staff left on bicycles or cars, leaving me anxious as the pickup vehicle hadn't arrived.
As everyone mentions in their reviews, it was really cold after coming out of the water; I was wearing a thin down jacket from Uniqlo and still felt a bit chilly.
In winter, if you're lucky, you might see whales.
For repeat visitors, I recommend trying it at least once. Be sure to prepare for motion sickness and the cold, and I suggest going as early as possible.
日程の関係で無理を承知で午後1時からのツアーでした。
日本人は他に一人もいなく、陽気なアメリカンばかりで異国情緒を味わいました。
ツアーはワイキキからの送迎付きをお願いし、やや集合時間にピックアップの車は遅れてきましたが、電話をすると日本人のスタッフが丁寧な応対で安心しました。
ノースショアに着いてから30分程時間があり、シュリンプワゴン等で食事が出来るほどでした。実際食べてきていいよ!!と言われましたが…船が揺れると聞いていたので酔い止めをのんだだけでした。
クルージングは最高に気持ち良く酔い止めを飲むほどではないかもと途中思いましたが、ケージに入ってからが揺れて揺れてつかまっていても脚などケージに打ち付けてしまいアザだらけになるほどで少し気持ちも悪くなりそうでした。
サメを夢中になって探しているとケージに激突してしまうので大変でした。
タイガーシャークがいて今日はサメが逃げてしまいあまりいないとのこと、二匹しか見えませんでしたがまあいてくれて良かったです。
戻って来たときにはスタッフに紹介されたパブリックのトイレはしまっているし、スタッフは自転車や車で先に帰ってしまうし、送迎車は来ないし不安になりました。
皆さんがクチコミで言うように、海から出た後は本当に寒く、私はユニクロの薄いダウンを羽織ってもやや寒いくらいでした。
冬場は運が良いとクジラも見えるそうです。
リピーターの方1度は行ってみてください。
酔い止めと寒さ対策、そしてなるべく早い時間をおすすめします。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | 檻の中から間近で見学!ケージプラン<送迎付き> |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/27 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/22 |
Reviewed by: yukiko & mayu
In the ocean illuminated by LED lights, I had the incredible experience of witnessing a mystical manta ray dance up close, which made me forget the long hours and cold I had felt in the water until then. On the way to the manta point, we were unexpectedly surprised to see a mother and baby whale just a few dozen meters away, making for an unforgettable few hours, not to mention the beauty of the sunset.
All these experiences were thanks to Daisuke, our guide who knows the ecology of the waters around the Big Island, including the manta rays and whales, and the trust and cooperation with other tour guides. They know the names of all the mantas living around the Big Island (the one we encountered was named Eli) and can predict the whales' next actions. (By the way, in the U.S., it is prohibited to approach whales within 90 meters, and the same applies to whale watching, so it was truly lucky that they appeared within just a few dozen meters.)
While this is an everyday occurrence for Daisuke and the others, they understand that for us, it was a first-time, rare, once-in-a-lifetime experience, and they work hard to ensure we have an amazing time. Initially, I spotted a manta near the sea floor as soon as I entered the water, but then I couldn't see any for several minutes as we moved around. Thanks to Daisuke's determination to let us see another manta, we were eventually treated to a dreamlike scene. The sight of divers going deep, the LED lights they shone from below, the approximately 100 people floating in the night sea to see the mantas, and the fish swarming around the plankton right in front of us was nothing short of magical.
I thought $140 for a few hours of snorkeling was a bit much, but considering the costs of operating a boat (gasoline prices on the Big Island are 1.5 to 2 times higher than on the mainland) and the need for a boat operator (it was Taku), I believe the tour price is reasonable. For reference, we drove to the location, but the roads can get congested on weekday evenings, so I recommend allowing extra time. Also, it's a good idea to carefully check for signs and landmarks to find the meeting point.
It's best to minimize your belongings and not leave too much in the car, but be prepared for the cold during the 20-minute return to the port after coming out of the water (I was so cold that I couldn't stop shivering for a while). There are no showers after getting out, and changing is done in public restrooms. To capture the magical sights, it's a good idea to prepare a camera like a GoPro, but since you need to hold onto a surfboard with handles while moving in the water, it can be challenging to keep both hands free for photography, so I recommend it only for those who are experienced.
It seems there are few spots around the world where mantas can be easily seen. For us Japanese, the Big Island is one of the most accessible places after Ishigaki Island, so I highly recommend participating in a manta tour while in Hawaii.
LEDで照らされたオーシャンブルーの夜の海で、神秘的なマンタのダンスを手が届くほどのところで見ることができ、それまでの海の中で長く感じられた時間や寒さも吹き飛ぶほどの驚嘆の経験でした。
またマンタのポイントに行く途中で、思いがけずクジラの親子を数十メートル先に見られるという、サプライズもあり、夕陽の美しさも去ることながら、忘れ難い数時間となりました。
これらの経験も全て、ハワイ島の海やマンタ・クジラなどの生態を知り尽くしたDaisukeさんのガイド、他ツアーのガイドの方々との信頼・協力関係のお陰です。彼らはハワイ島周辺に住むマンタの名前(今回遭遇したのはイーライ)を全て知っていますし、クジラが次にどのような行動を取るかも知っています。
(ところで米国ではクジラに90m以内に近付くことが禁止されており、ホエールウォッチングでも同様で、偶然にも数十メートル以内に現れたのは本当にラッキーでした。)
Daisukeさん達にとっては毎日のことですが、我々にとっては初めて・滅多にない・一生に一度のことということをよく心得ていて、より素晴らしい経験をできるように懸命に努力してくださいます。最初は海に入ってすぐに一瞬、マンタを海底近くに見たのですが、その後数十分全く見られず、あちらこちに移動しました。それでも何とかもう一度マンタを見てもらいたい!という一心のDaisukeさんのお陰で、最後には夢のような光景を目にすることができました。また、ダイバー達が深くもぐる様子、彼らが下から照らすLEDの光、マンタを見るために夜の海に浮かんでいる100人程の人々、目の前でプランクトンに群がる魚の数々は幻想的の一言以外の何物でもありませんでした。
数時間のスノーケリングに$140かと思い、モニター特典を利用しましたが、船を出すこと(ハワイ島のガソリン代は米国本土の1.5~2倍です)、船の操縦士(Takuさんでした)も必要なこと等々考えると、納得のいくツアー代だと思います。
参考までに、我々は現地まで車で行きましたが、平日の夕方は道路が込むので、余裕を持って行くことをお勧めします。また集合地点に辿り着くのにも、看板や目印などをよく確認した方がいいです。
荷物はなるべく車に残さない方がいいので最小限にすべきですが、海から上がった後から港に戻るまで20分程の間、寒いこともある(寒くてしばらく震えが止まりませんでした)ので、羽織るタオルなどしっかり準備してください。あがってからシャワーはなく、着替えは公衆トイレとなります。
幻想的な光景をいつまでも残すにはGoProなどカメラを準備すると良いですが、海の中での移動にも終始、取っ手のついたサーフボードに捕まっていなければならず、両手でも捕まり続けることは大変なので、海の中での写真撮影は慣れている方のみお勧めします。
世界中でマンタが容易に見られるスポットは少ないようです。我々日本人にとっては、石垣島についで、ハワイ島が一番アクセスしやすい場所のようですので、ハワイ島ではぜひマンタツアーに参加してみてください。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | ☆会員様限定モニターツアー☆/現地集合プラン |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/12 |
Reviewed by: Paul Viator
Got to see 2 sightings of whales. Was able to get pictures both times.
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | Morning Cruise |
| Attended as: | Solo Travelers |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/21 |
Reviewed by: くろまる
The plan was to meet on-site, but I ended up arriving late. I was worried that "the boat had already departed and I might not be able to participate..." However, I was warmly welcomed and they quickly explained the tour to me. I truly felt sorry for the delay, and I was grateful for their flexible response.
The tour began, and we boarded the boat to the manta ray spot. The wind felt nice, and the swaying boat was like a theme park ride, which was fun. On the way to the spot, we even saw a whale up close, turning the manta tour into a whale watching experience. The instructor's explanations were also entertaining. We saw a mother and baby whale waving their fins and blowing water, which was already moving before we even met the mantas.
After moving to the manta spot, we waited in the water for the mantas to appear. We floated on large boogie boards, waiting for the mantas to come, attracted by the plankton gathered in the light. Not only mantas, but we also saw plenty of fish, so the waiting time wasn't boring at all. It felt like putting your face in an aquarium tank.
Finally, the mantas appeared, and the instructor pulled us close to them. The mantas swam gracefully, opening their mouths wide and turning while eating plankton, which was truly magical. We were able to see them from just 15 cm away, close enough to think, "We're almost going to bump into them!" The mantas were larger and more elegant than I had imagined, making it feel like a dream.
I wanted to watch them a bit longer, but we had to return to the boat because staying too long would make us cold. On the way back, it really got chilly, and I thought, "The instructor was right." I was shivering with my wet body, but I felt happy to have met the mantas and enjoyed the beautiful starry sky on the way back.
One of the reasons I went to the Big Island was to see mantas, and this tour did not disappoint. I highly recommend it.
現地集合のプランだったのですが、到着が遅れてしまったんです。「ボートは既に出航していて、もう参加できないかも。。。」と不安に思いながら現地に向かったのですが、温かく迎えてくださり、素早くツアーの説明をしてくださいました。本当に申し訳なく、そして、臨機応変の対応がありがたかったです。
ツアーが始まり、ボートに乗ってのマンタスポットへ。風も気持ち良く、揺れるボートは遊園地のアトラクションのようで楽しかったです。スポットへ行く途中に、すごく近くでクジラも見れ、マンタツアーがホエールウォチングと化していました。インストラクターの方のご説明も面白かったです。親子のクジラで、ひれを振ってくれたり、水しぶきを吹いたりしてくれて、マンタに会う前にも十分感動していました。
マンタスポットへ移動後、マンタが現れるのを待って海へ。ビート板の大きい判みたいな物に掴まってプカプカ浮かんで、光に集まったプランクトン目当てのマンタが来るのを待ちました。マンタだけでなく、お魚もいっぱい見れるので、待ち時間も退屈ではなかったです。例えるなら、水族館の水槽に顔をつける感じでしょうか。
いよいよ、マンタが現れ、インストラクターの方が近くまで引っ張って行ってくださいました。ヒラヒラと泳ぐマンタが、大きく口を開けて、一回転しながらプランクトンを食べていて、本当に幻想的でした。「もう少しでぶつかる!」と思うくらいの15cmの距離で見れたんです。想像以上にマンタは大きくて、優雅で、夢の中にいるような時間でした。
もう少し見ていたいくらいでしたが、あまり長い時間いると体が冷えてしまうとのことでボートへ戻り港へ帰ることに。途中、本当に寒くなってきてしまって、「インストラクターさん言う事は間違いないな」と関心しました。濡れた体で震えていましたが、マンタに会えた幸せな気持ちと奇麗な星空で、心は満足な帰路でした。
ハワイ島に行く目的の一つがマンタだったくらい期待していたツアーだったのですが、期待を裏切らない感動を与えてくれるものでした。お勧めします。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | ☆会員様限定モニターツアー☆/現地集合プラン |
| Attended as: | Couples |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/13 |
Reviewed by: ニックLOVE
The staff were all high-energy and friendly! There were so many handsome guys, which made it worth participating just for that. (laughs) On the day of the tour, the sea was rough, and it took a while to find the dolphins, but I was moved to be able to swim with them. However, since we had to jump off the boat into the open sea, it was a bit tough for someone like me who isn't a strong swimmer.
スタッフの方がハイテンションで元気よく良い人ばかりでした!
イケメンばかりで、それだけでも参加した価値あり。笑
当日は海が荒れていてイルカを探すのに時間がかかったけど、無事イルカと泳げて感動しました。
でも沖に出て船から飛び込むので、泳げなに自分には少しきついツアーでした。
Thank you for participating in the tour. I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed it. Please join us again on your next visit to Hawaii.
ツアーへのご参加ありがとうございます。
楽しんでいただけたようで何よりです。
次回ハワイにいらっしゃる際にはツアーにまたご参加くださいませ。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | おすすめプラン |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/25 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/21 |
Reviewed by: hua zi
On January 8th, I participated with a friend. There were a total of six participants, including four foreigners and the two of us.
We traveled near Kona Airport to go to a spot to see night manta rays by boat. The boat sped quite fast from the harbor to the airport, which felt like an activity in itself and was fun. Along the way, we encountered a whale and were thrilled to see its tail.
When we arrived at the spot, we had to wait until it got completely dark for the plankton to gather, so we entered the water once it was dark. All the participants held onto a board with blue lights and floated to see the manta rays. My friend couldn’t swim, and since it was my first time swimming in the ocean at night, I was anxious, but the staff had two people with us on the boat, which made me feel safe.
Most importantly, the blue lights attracted a lot of plankton, so the manta rays came right up to us, making me forget my anxiety out of excitement. We were briefed beforehand not to touch the manta rays to avoid harming them, but they came so close that it felt impossible not to, and it was incredibly fun.
Since we went in January, it was quite cold when we got out of the water due to the wind, but I was very grateful that they prepared hot cocoa and cup noodles for us.
When it comes to sightseeing on the Big Island, people usually think of dolphin or whale watching, but I think night manta rays in the ocean are also a great option. I definitely want to participate again.
1月8日友人と二人で参加しました。参加者は外国人4人と私達2人の計6人でした。
舟でナイトマンタを見るスポットに行くためコナ空港近くまで行きました。ハーバーから空港に行くまではボートを結構なスピードで飛ばすので、それも一つのアクティビティみたいで楽しかったです。途中でクジラにも会えて、しかも尾びれを見ることができてとても興奮しました。スポットに着いても真っ暗にならないとプランクトンが集まらないためマンタも来ないということで、真っ暗になってから海に入りました。参加者全員でブルーライトの付いたボードにつかまり浮かぶようにしてマンタを見ました。
友人は泳げず、、私も初めて夜の海で泳ぐので不安だったのですが、スタッフはボートに二人着いていてくれたので安心しました。
何より、
ブルーライトにプランクトンがたくさん集まるので
マンタが目の前まで来るので、、興奮で不安な気持ちも忘れました。
事前にマンタを傷つけないようにマンタには触れないでという説明を受けたのですがそんなこと無理というくらい目の前まで来て、すごく楽しかったです。
行ったのが一月だったので、海から上がると風もありかなり寒かったですが、ホットココアとカップラーメンを準備してくれていてとてもありがたかったです。
ハワイ島の観光となるとイルカやクジラウォッチングかなと思いますが、夜の海でナイトマンタもいいかなと思います。是非また参加したいと思います。
| Rating: | |
|---|---|
| Packages: | ☆会員様限定モニターツアー☆/現地集合プラン |
| Attended as: | Friends |
| Posted on: | 2015/01/24 |
| Activity Date: | 2015/01/08 |
Tips and suggestions
Reply from activity provider
An unexpected error has occurred. Please go back to the previous page and try again, or wait a few minutes and try once again.
Thank you very much for participating in our whale watch cruise. The photos you shared were taken at a great moment. We hope you can encounter a whale jump next time. All of our staff look forward to your return.
Star of Honolulu
Reservations Department
この度は私共のホエールウォッチクルーズにご参加頂き、誠に有難うございました。
掲載いただいたお写真、とても良いタイミングで撮れましたね。
今度は鯨のジャンプに遭遇できると良いですね。
皆様のまたのお越しをスタッフ一同お待ち申し上げます。
スターオブホノルル
予約課