Can my child go on the trip without me?
We do not let unaccompanied minors come onboard without an adult.
Do you provide food and drinks?
Yes, we provide a variety of drinks and snacks onboard and some meals charter dependent. On all of our charters we have soda, local juice, still water, and sparkling water flavors. We also have a variety of chips and other similar snacks.
Is there a bathroom on the boat?
Yes, we have a marine head onboard that is larger than an airplane bathroom
Do you have a shower?
Yes, we have a freshwater shower onboard.
Do I have to wear a wetsuit?
No, you are not required to wear a wetsuit. We do recommend them for the Manta Ray night tours. Most people get cold because
A: there is no sun to warm your body and
B: you aren’t really swimming anywhere, you are just floating as the mantas swim below you.
If you would like one for your day trip please let us know in the comments section of your booking.
Is it customary to tip?
Yes, the boat tour industry is considered part of the service industry here in Hawaii. It is not required to tip however, if you felt like the captain and crew went above and beyond simply taking you to a spot, dropping you in the water, collecting you, and bringing you back then it is customary to tip something. (If you crew doesn’t do more than just this please let us know! ! We expect our captains and crew to love their job, want to engauge with guests, and be more than just a bad taxi driver and ticket taker.) Anywhere from $5 -$20per person in your party is considered acceptable depending on your opinion of level of service.
Can I bring my own food and beverage?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring any food or beverages onboard. Please don’t bring single use glass bottles.
Are there secluded beaches we can go to?
Yes, however most of them are quite far from the harbor. Also, we have swells that make beaching boats and swimming into beaches difficult in certain conditions. Feel free to inquire with us before booking or when you arrive at the harbor and we can let you know the best options for your private tour.
Do you rent underwater cameras?
Yes, we rent Go Pros. You can rent one when you make your booking or if they haven’t all been pre-rented you can rent one when you check in. They are first come first served and you leave with the memory card.
Do I have to snorkel with the group?
No, not usually. If we are reef snorkeling, we will give you the lay of the land and let you explore on your own or with the guide. If we are doing smaller group, open ocean swims, then yes, we ask that everyone please stay together as a group. Also, during the manta ray night snorkel everyone will stay together unless you would like to come back to the boat.
Do I have to stay in the water the whole time we are snorkeling?
No, during our day trips you can come and go as you please. For our manta trips it is a little trickier because the boats aren’t always in the manta viewing area (we don’t want to run over the mantas). If you would like to come back early during the manta charter, simply let your crew know and they can bring you back to the boat.
Can I book online?
Yes, you can book all of our charters through many of the “Book now” buttons on our website or by clicking here
What is the probability of seeing wildlife?
Very high. It depends on what tour your are participating in but we usually find something other than black sea urchins and reef fish. The Kona coast is rich in nutrients and has deep drop offs and upwellings within 3 miles of shore. This supports an ecosystem teaming with wildlife. Marine mammals are quite common during our daytime trips, Manta Rays are a 90% chance on our manta tours, sea birds such as Boobys, White Tailed Tropicbirds, and shearwaters.
What is the probability of seeing wildlife?
Very high. It depends on what tour your are participating in but we usually find something other than black sea urchins and reef fish. The Kona coast is rich in nutrients and has deep drop offs and upwellings within 3 miles of shore. This supports an ecosystem teaming with wildlife. Marine mammals are quite common during our daytime trips, Manta Rays are a 90% chance on our manta tours, sea birds such as Boobys, White Tailed Tropicbirds, and shearwaters.
Is there shade on the boat?
Yes we have quite a bit of shade onboard our vessel. Our shade bimini covers the back seating and a few of the front seats, providing ample options for shade cover or sunning.
Where do I store my valuables?
We have plenty of dry storage on board the vessel. You are more than welcome to bring your backpacks, purses, etc. onboard with you. If you are not comfortable bringing your wallet, you can leave it in the glove box of your car.
What can I do to prevent Sea Sickness?
Sea sickness is also known as motion sickness, there are homeopathic treatments as well as over the counter drugs you can take. We sell SeaBands on board, they are a reusable bracelet that utilizes acupressure points on your wrist. Ginger is another homeopathic treatment for nausea. There are several over the counter drugs you can take, our favorite is Bonine** and available at most drugstores on island. We have heard from other guests that it is best to take it 12 hrs before your trip and then another dose 1.5 hrs before. If you are extremely prone to motion sickness there are behind the ear patches you can get from your doctor.
*** You should consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before ingesting any medication for motion sickness.
What time of day has the smoothest ocean conditions?
Weather is a fickle thing.. ..but generally speaking the early morning has the smoothest ocean conditions and clearest skies. This is due to several meteorological occurrences that happen when the sun sets on our island. The ocean is a constant temperature and is more constant than the temperature on land. As the sun rises it warms the land faster than the ocean warms (well the ocean really doesn’t change from day to night) and the warm air lifts sucking in the cooler air off the ocean to take its place. This creates breezes which create small wind chop. At night as the island cools the phenomenon is reversed pulling the clouds and breezes out to open ocean leaving clear skies and beautiful mornings.
What time of day has the smoothest ocean conditions?
Weather is a fickle thing.. ..but generally speaking the early morning has the smoothest ocean conditions and clearest skies. This is due to several meteorological occurrences that happen when the sun sets on our island. The ocean is a constant temperature and is more constant than the temperature on land. As the sun rises it warms the land faster than the ocean warms (well the ocean really doesn’t change from day to night) and the warm air lifts sucking in the cooler air off the ocean to take its place. This creates breezes which create small wind chop. At night as the island cools the phenomenon is reversed pulling the clouds and breezes out to open ocean leaving clear skies and beautiful mornings.
Is it a rough ride?
No, not usually. Speed of driving and ocean conditions directly correlate. If the ocean conditions become bumpier, our captains will slow the boat to make it a smoother ride. Ultimately weather is out of our control, but we do our best to give guests a smooth and comfortable ride.
What is your policy on sunscreen?
Sun protection is very important and the boat will provide reef safe sunscreen. However, if you would like to bring your own we ask that you please bring either mineral based sunscreens, SPF clothing, or other fabric protection. We do not allow chemical based sunscreens containing the following active ingredients: oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate, or avobenzone to be applied while onboard our vessel.
What is the water temperature?
The temperature varies between 75 degrees in winter (Dec-March) and 80 degrees in summer (July – September).
Do you have dry storage?
Yes, we have plenty of dry storage onboard for your items. We do not recommend brining Gucci leather bags or expensive bags that might get ruined with a little lite mist or an unseen puddle. All of our storage is protected from spray and minor water inundation.
What is the maximum/minimum number of people on your charters?
For private charters there is no minimum and the maximum is currently 6 guests. For all other charters the minimum number of people is 4 and the maximum is 6.
What should I bring?
Your sense of adventure! Here’s a quick packing list: a camera (cell phones are usually fine), a light jacket, reef-safe or mineral-based sunscreen, a hat, a light layer for the ride back, a towel, and any personal medication you might need. Snacks and drinks are provided on all charters.
Is your crew lifeguard certified?
Yes, all of our crew possess both lifeguard certifications, as well as first aid and CPR certification.
What if there is an emergency during the trip?
Your captain and crew are trained in basic first aid, CPR, oxygen delivery, and usage of the onboard AED. If there is an incident during the trip that requires more than basic first aid we apply CPR, 02, or AED and contact emergency services. We travel to the closest harbor to meet EMS, this may be different from the harbor we departed from. Upon off loaded the unaffected guest will return to our original port of call to disembark.
What happens if we encounter bad weather?
It is not common to encounter bad weather during our trips, however it does occasionally happen. Rain showers aren’t a big deal, and we will continue our trip as planned. You’re usually getting wet anyways, and our captain is the only one who melts! (haha) If conditions become more substantial, your captain will make the call to return early. If a trip is cancelled due to weather, we’ll contact you by email and phone and work with you to reschedule. We do not cancel lightly. Safety is the only reason we’d cut a charter short.
Can my child go in the water without me?
Yes, your child is allowed to enter the water with your permission without you.
Do I have to snorkel with the group
No, not usually. If we are reef snorkeling, we will give you the lay of the land and let you expore on your own or with the guide. If we are doing smaller group, open ocean swims, then yes, we ask that everyone please stay together as a group. Also, during the night time manta ray snorkeling tour everyone will stay together. During this tour if you would like to come back to the boat please let your guide know.
What if I have never snorkeled before
If you are comfortable in the water swimming then you should have no problem. If you are a professional floater at a pool party with party floats then you should also have no problem. If you are not comfortable in the water we can assist you to try and make your first snorkeling experience as successful as possible.
What if I am a beginner snorkeler?
If you have only been a time or two but had a good experience, you will likely do great! Just incase though, let our guides know so we can be close if you need assistance with mask fittings or snorkel function.
Is it a rough ride?
No, not usually. Speed of driving and ocean conditions directly correlate. If the ocean conditions become bumpier, our captains will slow the boat to make it a smoother ride. Ultimately weather is out of our control, but we do our best to give guests a smooth and comfortable ride.
What safety equipment do you have on board?
We have all Coast Guard mandated safety equipment which includes: basic first aid kit, AED, oxygen for emergencies, horseshoe style life jackets for all persons onboard including children and infants, 2 fire extinguishers, 8 flares, a marine band radio to contact the Coast Guard and other vessels nearby, and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.
Can I wear shoes on the boat?
We use Sea Deck on the floor of our vessel. We ask that you please remove your shoes prior to boarding to keep the Lava rocks and dust from corroding the foam decking and our vessel. If you wear orthopedics or must wear shoes we will make exceptions.
How do we get back onboard the boat after swimming?
We have two ladders with large flat steps to climb out of the water. For persons with mobility issues in knees or hips we recommend going up backwards. For our more agile guests you can push up on our swim step to exit like you would the side of a swimming pool.
Is there a weight restriction?
No, there is no weight restriction for guests. However to enter the water you must be able to climb back up the ladder.
What can I do to prevent Sea Sickness?
Sea sickness is also known as motion sickness, there are homeopathic treatments as well as over the counter drugs you can take. We sell SeaBands on board, they are a reusable bracelet that utilizes acupressure points on your wrist. Ginger is another homeopathic treatment for nausea. There are several over the counter drugs you can take, our favorite is Bonine** and available at most drugstores on island. We have heard from other guests that it is best to take it 12 hrs before your trip and then another dose 1.5 hrs before. If you are extremely prone to motion sickness there are behind the ear patches you can get from your doctor.
*** You should consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before ingesting any
medication for motion sickness
Is it a rough ride?
No, not usually. Speed of driving and ocean conditions directly correlate. If the ocean conditions become bumpier, our captains will slow the boat to make it a smoother ride. Ultimately weather is out of our control, but we do our best to give guests a smooth and comfortable ride.
Is there shade on the boat?
Yes we have quite a bit of shade onboard our vessel. Our shade bimini covers the back seating and a few of the front seats, providing ample options for shade cover or sunning.
Do you provide prescription masks for people with glasses?
Yes, we provide correction for guests who are nearsighted (things far away are blurry). Our masks may not work for people with astigmatism.
Do you allow pregnant people?
Yes! We love having expecting guests aboard. That said, check in with your doctor before booking. A few things worth thinking through: climbing on and off the boat via ladder, floating for extended periods during the snorkel, and the chance of motion sickness. Your doc will have the best read on what’s right for you.
Do you allow pregnant people?
Yes! We love having expecting guests aboard. That said, check in with your doctor before booking. A few things worth thinking through: climbing on and off the boat via ladder, floating for extended periods during the snorkel, and the chance of motion sickness. Your doc will have the best read on what’s right for you.
I have mobility issues, will this be a problem?
Not necessarily, we welcome guests with all types of mobility issues. We invite you to contact us regarding your specific restrictions to help determine if our boat would be a good fit for you or your group.
I have specific dietary needs, can you accommodate?
Most of the time yes. We can accommodate most food allergies and intolerances. If food is served on your charter there will be an option to let us know about any allergies or food concerns.
How do I cancel or reschedule?
Feel free to either call or email us. If you are with in 24hrs please try to call our office and speak with us or leave a voicemail.
Do you have a manta guarantee?
Yes! If you come out with us and don’t see a manta ray, you’re welcome to come back at no charge until you do, as long as there’s space available on a future charter. We don’t offer a money back guarantee, but we do want you to see a manta ray! If you’re traveling specifically to see them, we recommend booking your manta trip toward the beginning of your stay so you have a chance to come back if needed.
What do I do if I need to cancel within the cancelation time?
If you need to cancel within the cancelation time just call our office at ……..we would love to reschedule you if that is an option.
What is your cancelation policy?
We have a 48hr cancelation policy. A full refund is available if you need to cancel more than 48 hrs before your trip. If you cancel within the 48 hrs we do not give any refund.
What if I need to reschedule within the 48 hrs before my trip?
We understand that things come up, you may reschedule your trip at no charge, to another day if there is a charter with room available. Please note that the cancelation policy applies to the original booking not the rescheduled date.
I want to do the Fabulous 5 charter but I’m not a great snorkeler. Can I still come?
Yes, while this charter is more advanced there is quite a lot to see from the boat. There will also be opportunity for you to get in the water if you choose at some of the calmer stops.
What if I am a beginner snorkeler?
If you have only been a time or two but had a good experience, you will likely do great! Just incase though, let our guides know so we can be close if you need assistance with mask fittings or snorkel function.
Do I have to snorkel with the group?
No, not usually. If we are reef snorkeling, we will give you the lay of the land and let you explore on your own or with the guide. If we are doing smaller group, open ocean swims, then yes, we ask that everyone please stay together as a group. Also, during the manta ray night snorkel everyone will stay together unless you would like to come back to the boat.
What if I have never snorkeled before?
If you are comfortable in the water swimming then you should have no problem. If you are a professional floater at a pool party with party floats then you should also have no problem. If you are not comfortable in the water we can assist you to try and make your first snorkeling experience as successful as possible.
Do I have to stay in the water the whole time we are snorkeling?
No, during our day trips you can come and go as you please. For our manta trips it is a little trickier because the boats aren’t always in the manta viewing area (we don’t want to run over the mantas). If you would like to come back early during the manta charter, simply let your crew know and they can bring you back to the boat.
Is your crew lifeguard certified?
Yes, all of our crew possess both lifeguard certifications, as well as first aid and CPR certification.
Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your own snorkeling equipment. If you have gear that you have used in the past or during your vacation and it works well for you we highly recommend you bring it with you. This specially applies to young children.
Do you provide extra floatation?
Yes, we provide additional floatation for people who feel like they need it.
What if I am not a good swimmer?
We have additional flotation for you to take in the water. Our guides can also help with any questions or concerns you may have.
Do you provide snorkeling gear?
Yes, we provide a variety of masks and snorkels to fit most faces including children. We also provide fins ranging from size 8-11 child through 13-15 adult.
Can I come if I don’t know how to swim?
Yes, you are more than welcome to join our tours. While we highly recommend that you have some prior swimming/bobbing or floating experience prior to getting into the water.
Is there an age limit to your charters?
Yes for shared charters the age limit is 80. BUT we ask that our patrons keep in mind the spinal compression that can happen in rough seas and ask that guests of older years take into account the physical demand that a day at sea can have on the body. If you are wanting to participate in in water activities we do have an age limit of 70 for getting in the water during shared charters. There is a correlation between people over 65 and deaths during snorkeling. If you have heart conditions, blood pressure issues, epilepsy, or other health conditions that are exacerbated by exercise or regulated by medication, snorkeling may not be for you. Don’t let our boat trip be your last.
ROPE
If you HAVE JUST FLOWN IN to the islands please educate yourself on Rapid Onset Pulmonary Edema. This condition effects people over 50 who have come off a long (5+ hrs) flight within the past 48hrs. We do not take children under 1 year due to neck and head development.
What safety equipment do you have on board?
We have all Coast Guard mandated safety equipment which includes: basic first aid kit, AED, oxygen for emergencies, Horseshoe style life jackets for all persons onboard including children and infants, 2 fire extinguishers, 8 flares, a marine band radio to contact the Coast Guard and other vessels nearby, and an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon.
Do you rent underwater cameras?
Yes, we rent Go Pros. You can rent one when you make your booking or if they haven’t all been pre-rented you can rent one when you check in. They are first come first served and you leave with the memory card.
Do you provide extra floatation?
Yes, we provide additional flotation for people who feel like they need it.
Do you allow full face snorkel masks?
Yes, but we request that they be a reputable brand, and that you have used them prior. Full face masks have a tendency to build up C02 inside the mask which has led to suffocation and drowning. If you feel short of breath at anytime while using the mask take it off your face and take deep breaths. You should not have headaches during or after using full face masks. More info on full face masks and their correlation to drownings can be found here
Do you allow full face snorkel masks?
Yes, but we request that they be a reputable brand, and that you have used them prior. Full face masks have a tendency to build up C02 inside the mask which has led to suffocation and drowning. If you feel short of breath at anytime while using the mask take it off your face and take deep breaths. You should not have headaches during or after using full face masks. More info on full face masks and their correlation to drownings can be found here
Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your own snorkeling equipment. If you have gear that you have used in the past or during your vacation and it works well for you we highly recommend you bring it with you. This especially applies to young children.
Do I have to wear a wetsuit?
No, you are not required to wear a wetsuit. We do recommend them for the Manta Ray night tours. Most people get cold because A: there is no sun to warm your body and B: you aren’t really swimming anywhere, you are just floating as the mantas swim below you.
Do you provide snorkeling gear?
Yes, we provide a variety of masks and snorkels to fit most faces including children. We also provide fins ranging from size 8-11 child through 13-15 adult.
Do you provide prescription masks for people with glasses?
We have a variety of optics correction for guests who are nearsighted (things far away are blurry). Our masks may not work for people with astigmatism. Our strongest mask is a -6.5 if you require something stronger you can rent higher optics from Snorkel Bob’s.
Is there a difference in the timing of the manta charters?
Yes
Companies offering the early trip, leaving before sunset: Pro – higher probability of seeing a manta, you get to see the sunset from the water, there is greater ability to get food after the charter. Cons – more people in the water and more boats at the site.
Companies offering the late trip usually leaving 1 1/2 hrs or more after sunset:
Pro- Less people at the site Con: its dark the whole time; there aren’t many restaurants open after the charter; ride share services and taxi’s can be harder to secure the later into the evening you go.
Companies, like ours, leaving right at or just after sunset: Pro – higher probability of seeing mantas; getting to the manta site at the “changing of the guards” when the early boats are leaving and late boats haven’t made it back yet; possibility of catching some of the sunset from the water; some restaurants are still open upon returning to the dock. Cons: there is only one tour offered for the boat so spots book up quickly.
What is the probability of seeing Mantas?
High. As long as this text is up, there is about a 90% chance of seeing at least one manta. That will change in the next few years as the manta industry gets regulated. For right now though, the probability is so high due to the ability to choose what manta site we wish to visit. If our north site didn’t have mantas before, we will go to the south one for our next trip. It is very rare for neither site to have mantas.
What if I am not a good swimmer?
We have additional flotation for you to take in the water. Our guides can also help with any questions or concerns you may have.
Is it a rough ride?
No, not usually. Speed of driving and ocean conditions directly correlate. If the ocean conditions become bumpier, our captains will slow the boat to make it a smoother ride. Ultimately weather is out of our control, but we do our best to give guests a smooth and comfortable ride.
Can I book online?
Yes, you can book all of our charters through the “Book now” Button on our website.
Should I eat before the Manta Trip?
Totally up to you! If you tend to get motion sickness, keep it light before the trip. A small snack a couple hours before is the sweet spot. We do provide snacks and drinks onboard. Just keep in mind most Kona restaurants close between 8 and 9 PM, so if you’re thinking about a meal after the trip, plan ahead. Local grocery stores have ready-made food and sandwiches if you need something quick.”
What kind of boat will I be on?
Our boat is a Mono Hull boat designed by Solas out of New Zealand, it is one of a kind in Kona, with an added fold down swim-step in the back for additional stability while the boat is stopped. The boat is constructed from high grade Aluminum and has an inflatable collar around the outside to help act as a “bumper” in close quarters with other boats. The inflatable part of our vessel has nothing to do with the ability of the boat to float and maneuver in the water, it does help make the boat more stable and comfortable but the vessel will not sink with out it. The technical term for any boat aficionados is “Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boat”
Can I wear shoes on the boat?
We use Sea Deck on the floor of our vessel. We ask that you please remove your shoes prior to boarding to keep the Lava rocks and dust from corroding the foam decking and our vessel. If you wear orthopedics or must wear shoes we will make exceptions.
Where do I store my valuables?
We have plenty of dry storage on board the vessel. You are more than welcome to bring your backpacks, purses, etc. onboard with you. If you are not comfortable bringing your wallet, you can leave it in the glove box of your car.
Is there shade on the boat?
Yes we have quite a bit of shade onboard our vessel. Our shade bimini covers the back seating and a few of the front seats, providing ample options for shade cover or sunning.
Do you have a shower?
Yes, we have a freshwater shower onboard.
Do you have dry storage?
Yes, we have plenty of dry storage onboard for your items. We do not recommend bringing Gucci leather bags or expensive bags that might get ruined with a little lite mist or an unseen puddle. All of our storage is protected from spray and minor water inundation.
How long is the drive from other places on island to your check-in location?
NO traffic:
Waikaloa: 24 miles ~ 40min. Waimea: 47 miles ~ 1 hr. Hilo: 80 miles ~ 2 hrs.
With Traffic or rush hour:
Waikaloa: 24 miles ~ 50min Waimea: 47 miles ~ 1:15 hrs Hilo: 80 miles ~ 2:15 hrs.
We suggest you plug it into apple maps, google maps etc. to see what the estimated time is for your desired travel time.
Do you provide pick up from my hotel?
No, we do not provide pick up from your hotel.
Where are you located?
We are located in Honokohau small boat harbor, Kailua Kona, on the west side of the Island of Hawaii (The Big Island). You can search for “Kona Coast Expeditions” in either Google maps or Apple maps. You can also check out the Directions page on our website. Please DO NOT type or copy and paste the ADDRESS (74-3…..Kealakehe Pkwy…..) into google maps or apple maps!!!!! It will not take you to the correct location. Use our pin from the website or your conformation e-mail, search us by name in google maps or apple maps, OR use the step by step instructions you received in your conformation e-mail.
How close are you to the Cruise ship docking location?
We are a 15 Minute drive from the Kona Pier where the Cruise ship brings its guests ashore. A Taxi, Uber, or Lyft is the easiest way to get to us. Please book your ride a head of time if using Uber or Lyft as we don’t have a lot of drivers on island.
What is the parking situation?
There is plenty of parking at our pick up location on the south side of Honokohau harbor. Parking is free.
Can I book the tour at the boat?
Yes but we don’t recommend it! We can take additional guests if there is room and we have crew. We don’t recommend waiting until the last moment to book though. There is a captain to crew ratio so the boat may not be full but we may have reached capacity for one crew and one captain.
When should I book my tour?
If you are coming Dec 20-Jan 7, we recommend booking before arriving on island. These times can be quite busy and spaces fill up fast. If you are wanting to book a Private tour we also recommend booking that ahead of time. If you are looking to book for tonight give us a call or check online, we very well may have space or know a reputable company who does.
Are you able to contact me on my International phone number?
If you’re rocking an international number while on island, keep an eye on your email. That’s our most reliable way to reach you. Some of our crew use WhatsApp but we don’t monitor it as a business channel, so please don’t count on it for anything time-sensitive. If you’re planning to do a lot of activities during your trip, picking up a US eSIM before you arrive is genuinely worth it.
I want to do the Fabulous 5 charter but I’m not a great snorkeler. Can I still come?
Yes, while this charter is more advanced there is quite a lot to see from the boat. There will also be opportunity for you to get in the water if you choose at some of the calmer stops.
Can I book online?
Yes, you can book all of our charters through the “Book now” Button on our website