Kailua-Kona: Big Island Morning Snorkeling Tour with Lunch

Travelers looking for a mix of fun, discovery, and a taste of local marine life often find themselves drawn to the Kailua-Kona morning snorkeling tour offered by Body Glove Cruises. This 4-hour adventure combines high-speed boat rides on a luxurious 41-foot Super-Raft with visits to remote snorkel spots along the Kona Coast, all topped off with a delicious picnic lunch. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious first-timer, this trip promises a lively, engaging day on the water with plenty of opportunities to see dolphins, turtles, and vibrant fish.

One of the best things about this tour is the expert guidance provided by in-water guides, who accompany you at each snorkeling site, making sure you get the most out of your experience. Plus, the boat’s amenities—shade, cushioned seating, and a bathroom—add comfort to what can otherwise be a physical outing. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under six, pregnant women, or those with back or neck issues, due to the fast-paced nature of the trip.

This experience is ideal for active travelers, small groups, and families with older children who love marine adventures. If you’re after a lively, well-organized snorkel tour with personalized attention and stunning underwater scenery, this tour will likely fit the bill. But if you’re seeking a laid-back, slow-paced excursion or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Fast-paced adventure with a focus on remote snorkeling sites
• Expert guides enhance the experience, especially for non-swimmers
• Comfortable boat amenities like shade, restroom, and cushioned seats
• Potential for dolphin sightings and marine life encounters
• Suitable for active guests over age six, excluding pregnant women and those with certain health issues
• Includes breakfast snacks and a picnic lunch for a full, satisfying day

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Big Island Snorkeling Trip

Meeting at Kailua Pier and Boarding

You’ll start your day meeting at the end of Kailua Pier, on the left side, with parking conveniently available at Illima Court Shopping Center, about five minutes away on foot. Once aboard the luxurious Super-Raft, you’ll notice the ample seating, shaded areas, and the onboard restroom—features that make a significant difference during a four-hour trip.

The boat departs south of Kona to reach two hidden snorkel locations. Unlike many tours that hit popular, crowded spots, this journey takes you to lesser-known sites, providing a more intimate experience with the underwater world. The speed of the boat ensures you maximize your time in the water rather than sitting in transit, which is a big plus for those eager to snorkel extensively.

Snorkeling at Two Remote Sites

The core of the trip revolves around two snorkel stops that are considered underrated by many. These sites are chosen for their vibrant marine life and relatively untouched coral reefs. Our guides, including in-water experts, help you navigate each location safely and confidently. The presence of guides is particularly appreciated by non-swimmers, as noted by guests who felt well-attended and supported during their time in the water.

Guests frequently mention the marine encounters—turtles, schools of colorful fish, and occasionally dolphins surfacing nearby. As one reviewer fondly recalled, “the snorkeling sites were exquisite and full of marine life,” emphasizing how these spots stand out for their natural beauty and diversity.

Exploring Underwater Highlights

Snorkeling here isn’t just about floating on the surface; it’s about discovering hidden sea caves, geological formations, and colorful coral gardens. The guides also share insights about the marine environment and history, such as a visit to the Captain Cook memorial, adding a cultural layer to your underwater exploration.

Lunch and Relaxation Time

After the first snorkel, you’ll return to the boat for snacks and a light breakfast, giving you energy for the second round in the water. The picnic lunch is simple but hearty enough to keep you fueled. The experience of eating while anchored off a remote coastline, with the ocean as your backdrop, is a highlight in itself.

Returning and Reflection

As the tour winds down, you’ll head back to Kailua Pier. The friendly crew, including Captain Mike, Chri, Channing, and others, are often praised for their professionalism and warmth. Many guests remark on the small group size, which makes the trip feel personalized and less crowded.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price point of $149 per person might seem moderate for a boat tour, the value lies in access to exclusive snorkeling sites, guided support, and included amenities like snorkeling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and water. The all-inclusive nature means you won’t need to rent or buy extra gear, which adds to the convenience and overall experience.

Compared to larger, more generic tours, this one’s smaller group size and personalized guidance create a more engaging, less rushed atmosphere. The support for non-swimmers and the fact that guides are in the water with you are significant advantages for travelers who want reassurance and expert help.

The Experience: What Makes It Special

One of the standout features is the combination of speed and comfort. The Super-Raft glides swiftly along the coast, allowing you to reach snorkeling sites quickly, but it’s also comfortable, with shade and cushioned seats. The in-water guides help you spot marine creatures and answer questions, making the experience educational as well as fun.

Authentic reviews reveal that guides like Chris, Channing, and Captain Elliot are particularly appreciated for their friendliness and attentiveness, especially by those who don’t consider themselves expert swimmers. “They were very friendly and attentive to everyone,” said one guest—an important detail when considering guided tours with mixed experience levels.

The marine life in these remote sites is often described as lively and diverse, with turtles, colorful fish, and sometimes dolphins. The fact that dolphins are a possible sighting adds an extra thrill to the trip, as the guides keep a lookout and share sightings in real-time.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, with flexible start times (check availability).
• What to bring: A towel, and maybe a waterproof camera or GoPro if you want to capture the underwater moments.
• What’s included: All snorkeling gear, flotation devices, reef-safe sunscreen, snacks, water, soft drinks, and a picnic lunch.
• Not included: Hotel transfers or towels, so plan accordingly.
• Age restrictions: Not suitable for children under six, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility, neck, or back issues. Guests need to be able to safely navigate the boarding process.
• Ease of booking: You can reserve with the flexibility to pay later, and cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

Authentic Feedback and Insights from Past Travelers

Guests consistently mention the expert guidance and the quality of the snorkeling sites. Toi described her experience as “exquisite and full of marine life,” while Maria appreciated the friendly crew that made her family’s adventure memorable. Karen highlighted the comfortable boat and efficiency of the crew, noting this as a great option for a relaxed yet activity-packed day.

These reviews underscore that the trip’s success hinges on the dedicated guides, who not only enhance safety but also enrich the experience with local insights and personalized attention. The small group sizes and the remote snorkeling locations are major selling points for many.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This Kailua-Kona snorkeling tour is especially ideal for active travelers who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and experience the marine environment in a more intimate setting. It’s perfect for small groups, families with older children, and anyone eager to see dolphins, turtles, and vibrant fish in their natural habitat.

It’s a great choice for those seeking guidance and personalized service, as the in-water guides are highly praised for their friendliness and expertise. The inclusion of snacks and a picnic lunch makes it a complete, satisfying outing that balances adventure with comfort.

However, it might not be suitable for younger children, pregnant travelers, or those with certain health issues due to the physical nature of boarding and snorkeling. If you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding trip, consider other options.

This tour offers excellent value for an immersive, well-guided snorkel excursion on the Big Island. You’ll leave with memorable stories, great underwater photos, and a new appreciation for Hawaii’s vibrant marine life.

FAQ

Is transportation included? No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, but parking is available nearby.

What should I bring? You should bring a towel and possibly a waterproof camera. The tour supplies all snorkeling gear and sunscreen.

Can non-swimmers participate? While guides are in the water to assist, it’s recommended for guests who can swim or be comfortable in the water.

Is it suitable for children? Not for children under six, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility, neck, or back issues.

How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, with a flexible start time based on availability.

What about marine life sightings? There’s a good chance to see turtles, fish, and dolphins, especially since dolphins are noted as a possibility.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund.

This Kailua-Kona snorkeling tour offers a dynamic, guided exploration of some of Hawaii’s most stunning underwater spots, perfect for travelers seeking adventure, comfort, and a chance to connect with nature in a small-group setting.