Catamaran Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)
Sail down the beautiful Kona coast on a 50 foot catamaran to the marine sanctuary in Kealakekua Bay. This bay and specifically the area in front of the Captain Cook Monument is known for crystal clear water and excellent snorkeling. The crew takes care of everything: food, drink, and snorkeling gear are all provided. So just sign up and show up — they will take care of the rest!
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here.
Activity Overview
Tour Highlights:
1 hour of snorkeling time
Enjoy 1 full hour of snorkeling in the famous marine sanctuary, Kealakekua Bay. Here you’ll snorkel in front of the Captain Cook monument. This area is known for its crystal clear waters and abundant sea life, including spinner dolphins. During whale season (November – March) you might also be able to see humpback whales!
45 minute sail down the Kona coast
Enjoy a leisurely sail down the Kona coast on the 50 foot catamaran where your knowledgeable guides will give you details about the history of the area and the marine life you’re about to see.
Meals and snacks provided
After your time in the water, relax with food and drink. On the morning tour, you’ll be treated to lunch and on the afternoon snorkeling tour, you’ll enjoy pupus. Juices and water are included and adult beverages are available for purchase once the snorkeling has finished.
2 Departure times
They offer both a morning snorkeling tour and an afternoon tour. While both are great, we prefer the morning tour because it’s longer and you have a better chance of good conditions. In the afternoon the tradewinds pick up and if there is VOG it will blow over and impact underwater visibility (it won’t look as bright and vibrant).
Additional snorkeling spot
If you choose to take the morning tour (our recommended option) you’ll get to visit another snorkeling spot, Red Hill, if weather permits. There you’ll enjoy snorkeling and watching sea life swim through lava archways and tubes.
“ ”Tour Details:
Where does the tour depart from?
Meet at the Keauhou Bay located at the end of Kaleiopapa Street Kailua Kona, Hi 96740. You will meet the crew at the end of the finger pier for boarding.
Do they offer other snorkel tours?
We also recommend this company for their manta ray night snorkeling tour. Located near Kailua-Kona, this is our favorite manta tour in the area1
What is the cancellation policy?
Refunds are available as long as the cancellation is made at least 24 hours prior to check in time for the tour. You must call (800) 322-5662 or 808-322-2500 to cancel your tour.
What should you bring?
Towel, Reef Safe Sunscreen (We also provide Reef Safe onboard), Sunglasses, Hat, Cover-Ups, Credit Card (for onboard purchases ex: Go Pros) & Cash for tipping your Captain and Crew.
Are Rx Masks available?
Yes, they are available onboard.
Can you bring your own gear?
They want you to be as comfortable as possible, so if you are familiar with your own mask, bring it along. However, due to safety concerns, full masks are no longer allowed on the charters.
Do you need to be a good swimmer?
Guests need to be confident swimmers before joining snorkeling tours. Any beginner snorkeler can ask for additional instruction and tips from the crew members as well as a noodle for additional floatation.
Can you bring your own food and drinks?
You can bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass is not allowed on the boat.
What is it like onboard?
If you’re looking for shade, the galley is shaded. There are two toilets on board. And while there is no shower, they do have a freshwater rinse.
About Sea Paradise:
Sea Paradise Inc. opened its doors in 1985 as one of Kona, Hawaii’s original premier scuba diving operations. Originally located on the pier at historic Keauhou Bay, Sea Paradise offered scuba diving tours to incredible dive sites in south Kona. The facility offered full scuba certification courses and carried a complete line of scuba equipment as well as a technical repair center.
Sea Paradise recognizes the importance of protecting Hawaii’s ocean environment. They are committed to incorporating the values of Hawaii Ecotourism Association’s principles of sustainable tourism within our tours.
And they have happy customers — they have 1,000 five star reviews on TripAdvisor.
We are affiliate partners with Sea Paradise which means we receive a small commission for each completed booking made through this site. This is done without any additional cost to you. You can read more about our affiliate policies here.
Know that we only recommend tour operators that we know and trust. Your positive experience and your trust in us mean more than any affiliate commission. By booking tours through our website you help us to provide free information and videos to help you and other readers plan their perfect Hawaii vacation. Thank you so much for your support — you are amazing!