From Hawaii: Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Experience with BBQ

Discover the Underwater Wonders of Hawaii with an Eco-Friendly Snorkeling & Dolphin-Watching Cruise

If you’re dreaming of exploring Hawaii’s stunning marine environment without harming the delicate ecosystem, this eco-certified snorkeling adventure from Kailua-Kona might just be your perfect match. With a focus on sustainability, family-friendly activities, and ample opportunities to see dolphins and vibrant sea life, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience.

What we love most is how smoothly everything flows—from the comfortable boat amenities to the friendly, knowledgeable crew who clearly care about both guest safety and environmental preservation. But one thing to keep in mind is the limited snorkeling time; if you’re eager to spend hours underwater, you might find the two-hour window a tad brief. Still, this trip suits adventure-seekers, families, and anyone wanting a balanced mix of fun, education, and relaxation on the water.

Key Points

Eco-conscious Focus: This tour is certified for its environmentally friendly practices, ensuring Hawai‘i’s marine sanctuaries are protected.

Variety of Activities: Besides snorkeling, enjoy paddleboarding, floating toys, a waterslide, and a high-dive—great for kids and kids at heart.

Excellent Food & Drinks: Expect a tropical breakfast, a hearty barbecue lunch, and a full-service cash bar with local brews and spirits.

Stunning Marine Encounters: Spot dolphins, sea turtles, jellyfish, and an array of vibrant fish—all within protected sanctuaries.

Family-Friendly & Accessible: Fully wheelchair accessible, with equipment and staff support that cater to all guests.

Relaxed and Fun Atmosphere: The crew’s professionalism combined with a friendly vibe makes the experience feel more like hanging out with friends than a commercial tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point & Logistics

Starting at Kailua Pier, you’ll find free parking just a short walk away at the specified lot, making the logistics straightforward. Boarding begins early at 7:30 AM, with departure promptly at 8:00 AM. This timing is ideal if you’re an early riser eager to beat some of the crowds and maximize your day on the water.

The Boat & Amenities

The vessel, operated by Body Glove Cruises, boasts a spacious, clean design with all the comforts you need for a half-day adventure. Inside, there’s a shaded cabin with cushioned seating—perfect for escaping the sun during breaks. With three restrooms and freshwater showers, the boat caters well to families and those who appreciate comfort on the water.

The Coastal Journey & Marine Sanctuaries

Once underway, you’ll cruise approximately ten miles down the Kona coastline, enjoying spectacular views and a gentle ocean breeze. The crew will point out notable sights along the way, and if you’re lucky, you might witness spinner dolphins, as some reviews mention spotting pods during the trip. The voyage itself is a relaxing way to take in the scenery, with some guests noting the return ride as especially beautiful.

Snorkeling at Red Hill Sanctuary

The core highlight is the snorkeling at the protected marine sanctuary near Red Hill, renowned for its vibrant, diverse ecosystem. Upon arrival, the crew provides snorkeling gear, including prescription masks if needed, ensuring everyone can comfortably enjoy the underwater world. A brief safety and beginner lesson is included, making it accessible for newcomers or nervous swimmers.

Many guests, including one reviewer who felt overwhelmed initially, appreciated the crew’s attentiveness. The team, trained by lifeguards, kept a close eye on snorkelers, ready to assist if anyone felt uncomfortable. With a variety of flotation devices, stand-up paddleboards, and even a floating relaxation station, there’s plenty to do above and below the water.

Marine Life Encounters

The reviews highlight how much guests love the chance to see dolphins, turtles, and colorful reef fish. Watching pods of dolphins swim alongside the boat is a common and memorable part of the journey. Some guests, like Ardelle, mention the crew’s friendliness and their feeling of being valued—helping create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Lunch & Refreshments

Post-snorkeling, you’ll enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch, with options like grilled burgers, which several reviewers raved about. The full-service cash bar remains open throughout the trip, offering a large selection of non-alcoholic drinks, local brews, and spirits. Many found the food to be substantial and tasty, making it a great way to refuel and socialize.

Additional Activities & Kid-Friendly Options

For families or groups with kids, the boat offers paddleboards, floating noodles, vests, and inner tubes at no extra cost. The waterslide and high dive provide extra fun, and the floating relaxation station gives those who prefer to stay dry a peaceful spot to unwind. As one reviewer put it, “The crew went above and beyond making a wonderful memorial trip,” demonstrating their commitment to making the day special for everyone.

Return & Reflection

The trip wraps up with a scenic cruise back to Kailua-Kona, often described as a leisurely, beautiful ride where guests can soak in the views or share stories from their underwater adventures. The entire experience lasts about four and a half hours, which balances enough time on the water with comfort and convenience.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authentic Eco-Focus: The tour’s certification and practices show a genuine commitment to preserving Hawai‘i’s marine environment. This means you can enjoy your adventure with peace of mind, knowing you’re supporting responsible tourism.

Balanced Activities: The combination of snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fun water features makes this suitable for a wide range of ages and activity levels. Reviewers appreciate the variety—some loved the waterslide, others enjoyed the quiet float station, and many highlighted the lively vibe created by the crew.

Excellent Value: For $201, the tour offers a mix of guided marine exploration, quality meals, drinks, and fun extras like snorkel gear and paddleboards. Considering the knowledgeable guides, the quality of amenities, and the chance to see dolphins and turtles, many guests agree it’s worth the investment.

Family & Accessibility Friendly: Fully wheelchair accessible with supportive equipment and staff help, making it inclusive for everyone. Kids especially enjoy the waterslide, high dive, and playful atmosphere.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is perfect for families with children, thanks to its kid-friendly features and safety support. It’s also ideal for couples and groups looking for a relaxed yet engaging day on the water. If you’re eco-conscious, you’ll appreciate the environmentally friendly certification and efforts to minimize impact.

The combination of snorkeling, scenic views, and delicious food makes it a versatile choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive Hawaiian marine adventure. However, if you’re someone who prefers to spend several hours underwater, the two-hour snorkeling window might feel brief—consider this when planning your day.

FAQs

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the cruise is 100% wheelchair friendly, with a customized boarding ramp and portable extensions that accommodate all types of wheelchairs.

What should I bring?
Bring a waterproof camera, towel, and sun protection like reef-safe sunscreen. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but personal items like sunglasses or hats are optional.

What time does the tour start?
Boarding begins at 7:30 AM, with departure at 8:00 AM. Punctuality is important, as late arrivals may not be refunded.

How long is the snorkeling?
You’ll have about 2 hours of snorkeling in a protected marine sanctuary, giving ample time to see marine life and enjoy the water.

Are food and drinks included?
Yes, a breakfast, barbecue lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages are included. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, and a full-service cash bar is open throughout.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. The boat offers kid-friendly features like a waterslide, high dive, paddleboards, and flotation toys, plus a supportive crew.

Can I snorkel if I’m a beginner?
Yes, beginners will appreciate the short safety briefing and the crew’s attentive support. Prescription masks are available if needed.

What is the price, and is it worth it?
At $201 per person, the tour provides a lot of value—guided snorkeling, meals, drinks, water activities, and dolphin sightings—making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable Hawaiian day.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited.

In essence, this eco-friendly snorkeling cruise from Kailua-Kona offers an engaging, responsible way to discover Hawaii’s vibrant marine life. With knowledgeable guides, fun activities, and a focus on sustainability, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking an authentic and enjoyable ocean adventure—whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time.