10 Passenger Max Customizable Private Charter

Exploring the Big Island with a Private 4-Hour Marine Charter

This private boat tour on Hawaii’s Big Island offers a flexible and intimate way to enjoy the island’s stunning marine environment. With a maximum of 10 passengers, it’s ideal for small groups seeking a tailored experience, from snorkeling in vibrant reefs to spotting playful dolphins or graceful manta rays. The journey is led by knowledgeable guides, on a well-maintained 33-foot Ocean Craft RHIB, ensuring both safety and fun.

What really draws us to this experience is the customizable nature. Whether you want to focus on underwater exploration, animal encounters, or simply relax and soak in the views, this tour adapts to your wishes. The inclusion of complimentary basic lunch and all snorkeling gear makes it good value too.

One thing to consider is the price point of $1,250 per group—for some, that might seem steep, especially if you’re traveling solo or as a couple. But when you factor in the private, tailored nature of the trip, plus the chance to explore iconic spots like Kealakekua Bay or seek out marine creatures in a small group, the experience becomes quite compelling.

This tour suits travelers who want a personalized, exclusive day on the water, with the flexibility to craft their own adventure. It’s perfect for families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for a special, private outing away from the crowded tours.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your preferences
• Small group size (up to 10), ensuring intimacy and flexibility
• Includes snorkeling gear and basic lunch, offering good value
• Expert guides with local knowledge enhance the experience
• Diverse marine sightings like dolphins, manta rays, and tropical fish
• 4-hour duration strikes a balance between adventure and comfort

An In-Depth Look at the Private Big Island Marine Tour

Setting the Scene: What to Expect

This tour revolves around private, flexible exploration in the waters surrounding the Kona Coast. The vessel, a sturdy 33-foot RHIB, combines comfort and speed, allowing you to reach prime snorkeling spots or marine sanctuaries with ease. The boat features shade and forward-facing comfortable seats, which make for a relaxing ride even in the Hawaiian sun.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point: Kailua-Kona
Your adventure begins at Hawaii Marine Life Charters, conveniently located at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy. From here, the crew—led by seasoned guides like Bryan, Riley, Sky, and Jan—embark on a journey crafted entirely around your preferences.

Stop 1: Snorkeling at Two Top Destinations
The main part of your trip involves traveling to two of the tour’s favorite snorkeling locations. During the roughly four hours, you’ll hop between spots that are home to hundreds of tropical fish, rays, and turtles, according to reviewers. The crew’s local knowledge ensures you visit the best sites, and their equipment is reported to be in excellent condition, which means fewer worries about gear quality.

Marine Encounters & Wildlife Watching
Reviewers have shared experiences of dolphins, whales, manta rays, and even hammerhead sharks during the migration season. The guides, like Bryan and Jan, are praised for their expertise—meaning you get both safety and stories about the marine life you encounter, enriching your understanding of the ecosystem.

Lunch & Refreshments
A straightforward, tasty lunch is included—pineapple, chips, salsa, and wraps or sandwiches—making the trip more convenient. Bottled water, Hawaiian juices, and Ginger Ale are also provided, keeping you refreshed for the duration.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Customization and Flexibility
Unlike standard group excursions, this private charter allows you to set the tone. Whether that’s snorkeling, wildlife spotting, or simply relaxing onboard, the guides adapt to your wishes.

Local Knowledge & Guides
Reviewers highlight guides like Bryan and Sky for their friendliness and expertise. Their insights into marine life and island history elevate the experience, providing context beyond just looking at pretty fish.

Comfort & Convenience
The vessel’s shade and comfy forward-facing seats are appreciated, especially in the Hawaiian heat. Towels and snorkeling gear are provided, so you don’t need to worry about bringing much along.

Authentic, Less-Crowded Experience
Because it’s a private tour, it’s less frantic and more relaxed—ideal for travelers who want to avoid big crowds and have a more personalized outing.

What Reviewers Say About This Tour

Guests consistently praise the stunning views and personalized experience. One reviewer called it “the time of our lives,” mentioning how Bryan and Riley made everything smooth and enjoyable, while the second highlighted the opportunity to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, expressing high regard for the guides’ knowledge and friendliness.

Another note from a guest was how the marine sanctuaries visited were teeming with life, and the vessel’s condition was described as “wonderful,” which adds to the overall comfort and safety.

Practical Considerations

Duration & Group Size

Four hours is a suitable length for a comprehensive yet manageable adventure, giving enough time for multiple snorkeling stops and wildlife viewing without tiring out your group. The maximum of 10 passengers ensures you get plenty of attention from guides.

Pricing & Value

At $1,250 per group, the cost averages out to about $125 per person if you fill all ten spots, which is reasonable given the private, tailored nature. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and lunch adds value, especially when compared to larger group trips that might not be as personalized.

Booking & Availability

Most bookings are made around 68 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred dates. The tour offers free cancellation if needed, giving some flexibility should your travel plans shift.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This private charter is ideal if you’re looking for an exclusive, customizable marine experience on the Big Island. It suits those who value personalized attention and want to explore marine life at their own pace. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a small group who appreciates comfort and flexibility, this tour hits the right notes.

Those seeking a more structured, large-group experience might prefer more traditional tours, but for intimacy and tailored adventures, this is hard to beat.

The Sum Up

This 10 Passenger Max Customizable Private Charter offers a genuine, flexible way to explore the waters around Kona. It combines expert guides, a well-maintained vessel, and the ability to customize your experience, making it ideal for travelers who want a more intimate, tailored day on the water. Whether it’s snorkeling amidst tropical fish and turtles or chasing dolphins and manta rays, this tour ensures a memorable marine adventure.

The value lies in the personalized approach and the chance to see spectacular marine life in a less crowded setting. While the price point may seem high at first glance, the exclusivity, quality, and flexibility make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a truly special Hawaiian experience.

This tour is perfect for small groups or families who want control over their day and are eager to discover the Big Island’s underwater treasures without the hustle and bustle of larger tours. If you love the idea of a private, customizable aquatic adventure, this charter is likely to deliver exactly that.

FAQ

How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 10 passengers, making it a small-group experience that allows for personalized attention and comfort.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, towels, bottled water, Hawaiian juices, ginger ale, and a basic lunch of pineapple, chips, salsa, and wraps or sandwiches.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, the tour is designed to be customizable, so you can choose to focus on snorkeling, marine animal sightings, or just relaxing on the water.

Where does the tour begin and end?
It starts and ends at Hawaii Marine Life Charters, located at 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy in Kailua-Kona.

Is the vessel comfortable?
Absolutely. The boat features shade, forward-facing comfortable seats, and is well-maintained, according to guest reviews.

What marine animals might I see?
Guests have reported sightings of dolphins, whales, manta rays, turtle, and hammerhead sharks during migration season.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 4 hours, balancing time for multiple stops with a relaxed pace.

What is the cancellation policy?
Booking can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in case plans change.

This private charter offers a superb way to experience the Big Island’s marine wonders in a tailored, relaxed setting. Whether you’re snorkeling, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking in the views, it’s an experience designed to meet your preferences and create lasting memories.