Late Night Manta Snorkel

Our review focuses on the well-loved Late Night Manta Snorkel tour on the Big Island of Hawaii. This popular experience offers a unique chance to observe manta rays in their natural environment after sunset, a magical moment for anyone seeking a mix of adventure and awe. With a perfect 5-star rating from over 160 reviews, this tour is clearly a favorite among travelers looking for an unforgettable aquatic encounter.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the intimate, close-up sightings of manta rays and the comfortable, well-organized boat environment with onboard amenities like drinks and snacks. It’s a chance to connect with these majestic creatures in a way that feels both safe and exhilarating. One potential consideration, however, is that the tour involves getting into the water and swimming in the dark—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with snorkeling and strong swimmers.

If you’re someone who loves marine life, enjoys a bit of adventure in the evening, and values well-reviewed, reliable operators, this tour might be perfect for your Hawaii itinerary. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a memorable experience that combines nature, excitement, and a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• High success rate for manta sightings due to the location and timing
• Stunning views from a spacious 50-foot catamaran with a bar onboard
• Includes all necessary snorkeling gear and instructions, making it accessible for confident swimmers
• Affordable price point considering the unique experience and equipment provided
• Good for those seeking authentic close encounters with marine life, particularly manta rays
• Not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness

The Experience in Detail

The Late Night Manta Snorkel tour is based out of Kailua-Kona, which is renowned for its prime manta ray habitat. The journey begins with check-in at the retail outlet located in Kona Square Shopping Complex, about 45 minutes before departure. This gives you enough time to settle in, grab a parking spot (discounted at the nearby Courtyard Marriott), and prepare for the adventure ahead.

The vessel itself is a spacious 50-foot catamaran, providing a stable platform from which to enjoy the evening. As you board, the crew welcomes you with friendly professionalism, setting the tone for a safe, well-organized night. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, a duration that balances enough time on the water with opportunities to relax and take in the scenery.

Setting Sail and the Atmosphere

Once underway, you’ll cruise along the coast of Kailua-Kona, enjoying spectacular views of the illuminated shoreline, calming sea breezes, and a chance to socialize over drinks purchased from the onboard bar. The boat provides bottled water, soft drinks, and juices—plus the relaxing warmth of hot cocoa, tea, and cookies after your swim.

The Main Event: Snorkeling with Manta Rays

As the boat anchors in an area known for its high concentration of wild ‘hahalua’ —manta rays— the crew provides instructions on how to snorkel safely in the dark. The key to spotting the rays is the use of special light-boards that attract plankton, which in turn draws the manta rays close to the surface. You’ll hold onto these light-boards, remaining relatively still, while the large, peaceful creatures glide inches from you.

This setup is designed to maximize your chances of seeing these gentle giants. The experience feels almost surreal: you’re in the water, holding on in the dark, with the massive, graceful manta rays feeding just beneath you. Several reviews emphasize how close and personal this gets. One reviewer noted, “You are inches away from these gentle giants as they feed,” which captures the intimacy of the encounter.

Real-Life Encounters & Authenticity

Many travelers describe this as a “must-do in Hawaii”, with sightings of multiple manta rays—sometimes more than a dozen in a single night. One reviewer even stated, “We saw over 20 rays; they did over 50 passes within inches of us,” highlighting the incredible proximity and abundance.

The crew’s professionalism and focus on safety also shine through in reviews. They are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, making sure everyone is comfortable, especially those new to snorkeling. If you’re not a strong swimmer or you’re unsure about your ability, the crew will assess and guide you accordingly, sometimes directing those less confident to stay on the boat or return to shore if necessary.

Comfort and Convenience

The amenities onboard add to the overall value. Aside from the drinks, the boat offers a relaxing environment to enjoy the evening. Guests mention the warm-up with hot cocoa and cookies after the swim, which is a thoughtful touch after getting into the cool ocean water.

It’s worth noting that towels are not provided, so bringing your own is recommended. Also, guests with certain conditions—like a history of panic attacks, or those weighing over 300 pounds—should carefully consider whether they’re comfortable with the water entry and exit process.

The Cost & Value

The tour costs around $137.79 per person, which may seem like a splurge but is quite reasonable given the uniqueness of the experience. Snorkeling equipment and instruction are included, removing the hassle of renting gear elsewhere. The boat’s amenities, combined with the high likelihood of seeing manta rays up close, make this a solid value for adventure lovers.

Compared to daytime snorkeling trips, this night tour offers an entirely different perspective — more intimate and mesmerizing. It’s a chance to witness a rare natural spectacle that many travelers feel is worth every penny.

Who This Tour Fits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who are comfortable in the water and enjoy marine life encounters. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime moment with Hawaii’s gentle giants. However, it’s not suited for very young children (under 5) or anyone with mobility issues or seasickness concerns. Also, the tour’s reliance on good weather means that cancellation due to poor conditions is a possibility, though full refunds are available if that happens.

Final Thoughts

The Late Night Manta Snorkel tour is more than just a boat trip—it’s a chance to see one of Hawaii’s most captivating natural sights in an up-close, personal way. The combination of professional crew, comfortable boat, and the thrill of seeing manta rays feeding in their own environment makes it a standout experience that many repeat visitors cherish.

If you’re after an authentic, well-reviewed experience that combines adventure, comfort, and a touch of magic, this tour is well worth considering. It offers genuine value, especially if you’re eager to connect with Hawaii’s marine life in a memorable, safe environment.

FAQ

• What is the meeting point for this tour? The tour begins at 75-5669 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, in the Kona Square Shopping Complex.
• Is there a minimum number of participants? Yes, a minimum of 2 people per booking is required.
• Can children participate? Children under 5 are not allowed in the water and must be accompanied by an adult. Children over 5 can participate if they meet the swimming requirements.
• Are towels provided? No, guests should bring their own towels.
• Can I use full-face snorkel masks? No, full-face masks are not allowed.
• What if I am not a strong swimmer? If the crew determines you’re not a competent swimmer, you may be asked to stay on the boat or be guided to return to shore.
• Is this tour suitable for seasick travelers? It’s not recommended for those prone to seasickness or motion sickness.
• What is the duration of the tour? About 2 hours and 15 minutes, including check-in, sailing, snorkeling, and returning.
• Are alcoholic drinks available? Yes, they can be purchased onboard, but are not included in the price.
• What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

In the end, this tour offers an extraordinary chance to witness Hawaii’s legendary manta rays in their natural habitat. It’s a well-organized, safe, and authentic experience that appeals most to confident swimmers and marine life enthusiasts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable adventure, the Late Night Manta Snorkel is likely to deliver a night to remember.