Kona Manta Rays Guaranteed Night Snorkel in Keauhou Harbor

Floating effortlessly in the dimly lit waters of Keauhou Harbor, guests have the chance to witness the majestic manta rays up close. This guaranteed night snorkel adventure takes participants on a short boat ride to the feeding area, where they’ll spend up to 30 minutes observing these gentle giants as they gracefully glide through the warm Hawaiian ocean. With a maximum group size of 17 and certified guides ensuring a safe experience, this is an opportunity not to be missed for marine life enthusiasts.

Key Points

• Unique opportunity to observe manta rays in their natural habitat during a night snorkel experience in Keauhou Harbor, Big Island, Hawaii.
• Short 3-minute boat ride from Keauhou Harbor to the manta ray feeding area, providing convenience for participants.
• Maximum group size of 17 guests to ensure safety and personalized attention from certified in-water guides.
• Snorkeling gear and optional wetsuit rental provided, with gratuity for the crew based on service quality.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview of the Activity

The Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel activity offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these captivating marine creatures in their natural habitat.

The Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel activity offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these captivating marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the evening cruise takes guests to Keauhou Harbor, where they’ll board a custom boat and enjoy a short 3-minute ride to the manta ray feeding area.

Using a powerful 150,000-lumen light board, the crew attracts the rays, allowing participants to float in the warm waters and watch these graceful giants feed for up to 30 minutes.

It’s an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in marine life.

Location and Setting

The Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel takes place on the Big Island of Hawaii, in the picturesque Keauhou Harbor.

Located just south of the bustling town of Kailua-Kona, the harbor offers a serene setting for this unique wildlife encounter. Guests embark on a short 3-minute boat ride to the feeding area, where they’ll be guided by certified experts to observe the manta rays in their natural habitat.

The harbor’s calm waters and ideal conditions create an optimal environment for this unforgettable experience.

Key features include:

1. Pristine, protected harbor setting
2. Convenient location near Kailua-Kona
3. Short boat ride to the manta ray feeding grounds
4. Serene and peaceful atmosphere for the encounter

Safety Measures and Group Size

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel limits group sizes to a maximum of 17 guests.

This intimate group size allows the certified in-water guides to focus on safety and provide non-intrusive encounters with the manta rays.

Participants must have basic swimming skills and prior snorkeling experience to join the excursion.

The activity isn’t suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, such as back problems, heart issues, or recent surgeries.

Guests must also be able to independently climb the boat ladder and converse in English for the safety briefings.

Equipment and Inclusions

Although the Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel experience includes the essentials like a USCG Captain, in-water snorkel guide, mask, snorkel, and lifejacket, guests can also opt to rent a wetsuit for added warmth at an additional cost of $10.

The tour provides:

1. USCG Captain to ensure a safe journey.
2. Certified in-water snorkel guide to assist with manta ray observations.
3. Mask, snorkel, and lifejacket for the snorkeling portion.
4. Optional wetsuit rental for those seeking extra insulation in the cool night waters.

Gratuity for the crew is optional, allowing guests to reward exceptional service at their discretion.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Guests can find the meeting point at 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA.

Look for the Hawaii Island Ocean Tours & Kona Snorkel Tours white van near the Outrigger Hotel entrance.

Arrive at the wetsuit rental van at the booked time, as the tour departs promptly.

Free parking is available along the road.

After checking in, the crew will provide a safety briefing and distribute snorkel gear.

The short 3-minute boat ride takes guests to the feeding area where the magical manta ray experience begins.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The cost for the Kona Manta Rays Guaranteed Night Snorkel experience starts from $58.50 per person, originally priced at $65.00.

The cancellation policy offers flexibility:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
2. Customers can reserve now and pay later.
3. This allows for easy rescheduling or cancellation if plans change.
4. Travelers can book with confidence, knowing they’ve the option to adjust their plans if needed.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

Many travelers highlight the close encounters with manta rays, knowledgeable and friendly crew, and overall unforgettable experience.

Guests praise the magical moment of witnessing the majestic creatures up close, with one reviewer describing it as "a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

Witnessing the majestic manta rays up close is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, as guests enthusiastically describe.

The crew’s expertise and passion for preserving the environment also earn high marks, as they guide visitors through the experience safely and responsibly.

However, some participants express disappointment with the organization and crew engagement during the tour.

A few note room for improvement in keeping guests informed and creating a more immersive educational component.

Preparing for the Manta Ray Encounter

Although the Kona Manta Rays Night Snorkel promises an unforgettable encounter with these majestic creatures, preparing for the experience is crucial. Participants must be comfortable swimmers with prior snorkeling skills, as the activity involves floating in the water for up to 30 minutes.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, guests should:

1. Bring a warm rash guard or wetsuit for added comfort in the cool ocean waters.
2. Hydrate well before and after the activity to prevent fatigue.
3. Avoid heavy meals close to the tour to prevent seasickness.
4. Familiarize themselves with the safety instructions and signals from the guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Gear?

Yes, guests can bring their own snorkel gear. However, the tour company provides complimentary masks, snorkels, and lifejackets to ensure proper fit and functionality for the manta ray encounter.

Are Photos/Videos Allowed During the Encounter?

Guests are encouraged to bring their own cameras and GoPros to capture the incredible manta ray encounters. The crew provides guidance on ethical photo and video practices to ensure the rays are not disturbed.

How Long Does the Entire Tour Last?

The entire tour typically lasts around 1.5 to 2 hours, including a 3-minute boat ride to the feeding area, up to 30 minutes of manta ray viewing, and the return trip. Guests can expect an immersive, if not brief, encounter with these magnificent creatures.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?

There is no minimum age requirement, but the activity is not suitable for very young children. Participants must have basic swimming skills and be able to independently climb the boat ladder and converse in English for safety briefings.

Can I Choose Where I Float During the Manta Ray Viewing?

Guests are positioned in a designated viewing area during the manta ray encounter. While they can’t choose their exact location, the in-water guides ensure everyone has an optimal view of the rays’ feeding activity.

The Sum Up

The Kona Manta Rays Guaranteed Night Snorkel in Keauhou Harbor is a must-do experience for those seeking an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures. With a small group size, expert guides, and all the necessary equipment provided, you’ll have the chance to float in warm waters and witness the mesmerizing dance of the manta rays in their natural habitat. Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories in the beautiful waters of Hawaii.