Kona Wild Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Reef Snorkel Adventure
Overview
What Makes Our Daytime Snorkel to Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook monument Unique
Fast, agile Zodiac RIB boat (used by Navy SEALs) gets you to the bay quickly and allows access to hidden sea caves, lava tubes, and scenic coastline features
Small group size ensures a personal, uncrowded experience—unlike big boats carrying 30 to 80 people
Snorkel the pristine coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary and historic site of the Captain Cook Monument
Opportunity to explore areas larger boats can’t reach, including caves and cove topography
Chance sightings of wild dolphins or whales during your ride along the coast.
Wildlife not guaranteed
Fresh pineapple and bottled water included, adding comfort and hospitality to the adventure
Locally owned, family-run company focused on guest experience, safety, and cultural respect
Gear provided, with optional rentals (wetsuits, lifejackets, etc.) available during check-in at the BIO storefront
What's Included
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
Meeting Location
Ali‘i Drive
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Skip the crowded tourist boats with 30 to 80 people and join our small-group snorkel tour aboard a Navy-style Zodiac RIB speed boat. We’ll take you on a fast, scenic ride to Kealakekua Bay, home of the Captain Cook Monument and some of the clearest, most vibrant coral reef snorkeling on the Big Island.
Explore sea caves, coves along the rugged Kona coastline—places larger boats can’t access. You may even spot dolphins, whales, or other marine wildlife along the way (wildlife sightings are NOT guaranteed).
Your tour includes snorkel mask & snorkel, pineapple and water. Wetsuits and lifejackets are available for rent at check-in if desired. Our crew will guide you every step of the way, ensuring comfort, safety, and a memorable experience.
⏱️ Tour duration is approximately 2–3 hours (2.5 hours on average), but can vary depending on ocean conditions, snorkeling time, and wildlife activity.
Come explore the Big Island coast with us—the local way, without the crowds.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Maximum weight cannot exceed 300lbs per person.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum age is 6 years
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 18 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(14)Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-47484P6
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.78 out of 5 stars based on 1,147 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (14)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
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Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All City Boat Tours snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on City Boat Tours tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Kona Wild Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Reef Snorkel Adventure. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.
Dec 2022First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (HST).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- Snacks.
- Bottled water.
- Use of Snorkelling equipment.
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025The minimum age to participate is 5..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Kona Wild Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Reef Snorkel Adventure is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Maximum weight cannot exceed 300lbs per person.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Kona Wild Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Reef Snorkel Adventure will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Maximum weight cannot exceed 300lbs per person.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum age is 6 years
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 18 travelers
