Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island

The manta ray night snorkel in Kona, Big Island offers an unforgettable underwater adventure. Participants can float alongside these captivating creatures as they feed in the nutrient-rich waters of Keauhou Bay. With a maximum group size of 28 guests, this highly-rated experience ensures an intimate encounter. At $79 per person, this unique opportunity is perfect for families and aquatic enthusiasts alike. However, certain health and safety requirements must be met to join this extraordinary adventure.

Key Points

• The Manta Ray Night Snorkel is a highly-rated nighttime snorkeling experience in Keauhou Bay, Big Island, where participants can observe and swim alongside manta rays.
• The tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, including a short-sleeve wetsuit, and has a maximum group size of 28 guests for an intimate experience.
• Participants must be at least 6 years old, with a maximum weight limit of 285 lbs, and possess moderate physical fitness and swimming/treading water skills.
• Safety is a priority, and the tour is not recommended for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
• The meeting point is at Keauhou Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona, and early arrival is recommended to complete check-in and receive safety instructions.

Overview of the Manta Ray Night Snorkel

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island is a highly-rated experience, with 1,246 reviews and a 94% traveler recommendation.

Priced from $79 per person, this unique opportunity allows animal lovers to snorkel with manta rays feeding at night in Keauhou Bay. The tour provides a short-sleeve wetsuit and snorkeling equipment, with a maximum of 28 guests per group.

Participants must be able to swim, tread water, and climb a metal ladder. While manta ray sightings aren’t guaranteed, a ride-along option is available for non-swimmers.

With moderate physical fitness required, this adventure is an exciting way to encounter these majestic sea creatures.

Key Tour Details and Requirements

While the tour provides all necessary snorkeling equipment, including a short-sleeve wetsuit, participants must be able to swim and tread water proficiently.

The maximum group size is 28 guests, with a minimum age of 6 years old. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. An electronic waiver is required prior to the tour.

Guests must be able to climb a metal ladder to reboard the boat, with a maximum weight limit of 285 lbs. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, and a moderate fitness level is required.

Snorkeling With Manta Rays in Keauhou Bay

This one-of-a-kind nighttime snorkeling experience allows participants to witness the majestic manta rays as they feed in the nutrient-rich waters of Keauhou Bay.

Guests don’t merely observe these gentle giants from a distance; they float peacefully alongside the manta rays, mesmerized by their graceful movements as they glide through the illuminated water.

The tour provides all necessary snorkeling gear, including wetsuits, ensuring everyone is comfortable and prepared for this magical encounter.

With a maximum of 28 guests, the experience offers an intimate and exclusive opportunity to connect with these captivating marine creatures.

Health and Safety Considerations

Although the Manta Ray Night Snorkel is an exhilarating experience, participants must consider their physical fitness and health conditions before signing up.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with heart problems, neck/back issues, or serious medical conditions. A moderate fitness level is required, as guests must be able to swim, tread water, and climb a metal ladder to reboard the boat.

There’s also a weight limit of 285 lbs. All participants must follow safety instructions and be able to obey them to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure on the open waters.

Meeting Point and Arrival Information

The meeting point for the Manta Ray Night Snorkel tour is the Keauhou Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Guests must check in prior to departure. Restroom facilities aren’t available on the boat, so plan accordingly.

Arrive early to check in, as there are no restroom facilities available on the boat during the tour.

Arriving on time is crucial to receive important safety information and get properly fitted for the snorkeling equipment.

The tour has a maximum of 28 guests, so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot.

Following the proper arrival and check-in procedures will ensure a smooth start to this unique and exciting manta ray encounter.

Gear and Equipment Provided

Once guests have checked in and are ready to depart, the tour operator provides the necessary gear and equipment for the manta ray snorkeling experience. This includes a short-sleeve wetsuit to keep guests warm in the cool night waters.

Snorkeling equipment, such as masks, snorkels, and fins, are also provided. The tour has a maximum of 28 guests, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Participants must be able to swim and tread water, as they’ll be entering the water from a boat. The essential gear and equipment help guests safely and comfortably explore the underwater world of the manta rays.

Guest Experiences and Feedback

Numerous guests have raved about their experiences on the Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, praising the knowledgeable staff and engaging guides.

Many report seeing multiple manta rays during the tour, providing an educational and unforgettable encounter.

However, some guests noted the choppy waters as a potential discomfort.

While the exhilaration of the manta ray encounter may captivate, choppy waters can be a potential source of discomfort for some guests.

The vast majority of reviewers highly recommend the experience as a must-do activity on the Big Island.

Guests consistently emphasize the unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, creating lasting memories for animal lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Preparing for Your Manta Ray Adventure

Before embarking on your manta ray night snorkel adventure, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Ensure you can swim and tread water, as moderate physical fitness is required. Review the health and safety guidelines, as individuals with certain medical conditions may not be suitable.

Pack light, as storage on the boat is limited. Arrive on time to complete the check-in process and receive important safety information.

Remember to bring your swimsuit, towel, and camera to capture the magical encounter.

With proper preparation, you’ll be ready to learn about the awe-inspiring underwater world of the manta rays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos/Videos During the Manta Ray Snorkel?

Yes, guests can take photos and videos during the manta ray snorkel tour. However, they should avoid using flash or bright lights that could disturb the animals. Cameras and GoPros are permitted, but guests should be mindful of the wildlife’s well-being.

What Should I Bring With Me Besides the Provided Gear?

Travelers should bring a waterproof camera or phone to capture photos and videos of the manta rays. They may also want to bring a towel, change of clothes, and light snacks or drinks for after the tour.

Is There a Specific Time of Year for the Best Manta Ray Sightings?

The best time for manta ray sightings is typically during the summer months, when the water is warmest. Manta rays are more likely to be found feeding at night in Keauhou Bay during this peak season.

Can I Extend My Stay and Explore Other Big Island Attractions?

You can extend your stay and explore other Big Island attractions. There’s plenty to see and do, from volcanic landscapes to historic sites. With advance planning, you can make the most of your time on the island.

How Difficult Is the Entry and Exit From the Boat for Snorkeling?

The entry and exit from the boat for snorkeling can be challenging, as guests must climb a metal ladder. Participants should have moderate physical fitness and be able to climb the ladder without difficulty to reboard the boat.

The Sum Up

The Manta Ray Night Snorkel at Kona, Big Island is a must-try for those seeking an unforgettable underwater experience. With intimate group sizes, guests can marvel at these gentle giants as they glide through the nutrient-rich waters. As long as visitors meet the health and safety requirements, they’re sure to leave with memories that’ll last a lifetime.