Kailua Bay Charter Company: Unique Sea Adventures in Hawaii - Hilo

Kailua Bay Charter Company: Unique Sea Adventures in Hawaii

Hiloeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–4 hours

Fitness Level

Minimal physical exertion required; suitable for most fitness levels.

Overview

Discover Kailua Bay Charter Company’s private charters and reef tours from Kailua-Kona. Unique marine views, quiet moments at sea, and dazzling sunsets await along Hawaii’s Big Island coastline.

Details

Kailua-Kona, on Hawaii’s Big Island, is a gateway to some of the most diverse marine experiences in the Pacific. Kailua Bay Charter Company Inc. capitalizes on this with a suite of private boat charters and specialized tours that invite visitors to connect with the ocean on their terms. Departing from both Kailua-Kona Pier and Honokohau Harbor, this operator offers a spectrum of waterborne adventures suited to a variety of interests—from casual sightseeing to deeply personal moments.

Their private charters provide an intimate way to absorb the coastal drama: rugged lava shorelines give way to stretches of vibrant coral reefs visible through crystal-clear waters. Glass bottom reef tours off Kailua-Kona and Honokohau Bay showcase thriving marine ecosystems, including colorful tropical fish and gentle sea turtles, all from the dry comfort of a boat—a distinctive option for families and snorkel-shy guests.

Specialized experiences such as Ash Scatterings at Sea honor Hawaiian traditions by returning loved ones’ remains to the Pacific, with departures available from both harbor points, marked by quiet reverence and surrounded by natural beauty.

For evening visitors, the private sunset cruise and Sunset & Night Glassbottom tours reveal the coastline’s changing colors and nocturnal ocean life, sometimes synchronized with the 4th of July fireworks for a spectacular spectacle overhead.

What sets Kailua Bay Charter Company apart is its versatility and respect for the ocean’s cultural and ecological significance. Their professional captains prioritize safety and local knowledge, ensuring each trip is memorable and responsible. Whether it’s the volcanic formations lining the shore, the vibrant reef life below, or the expansive sky above, this company offers an authentic connection to Hawaii’s unique coastal environment.

Adventure Tips

Book Ahead for Peak Times

Secure your spot, especially for sunset cruises and holiday events when demand spikes.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect marine life by using sunscreen that won’t harm coral reefs during your tour.

Dress in Layers

Mornings can be cool on the water; pack a light jacket for comfort during early departures.

Prepare for Light Seasickness

If prone to motion sickness, bring remedies as the ocean can get choppy at times.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Tucked-away lava tubes near Honokohau Harbor reachable by boat
  • Secluded coves along the Kona coast often missed by larger tours

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtles (Honaunau)
  • Spinner dolphins

History

The Kona coast has been a vital fishing and navigation area for native Hawaiians for centuries, with marine life playing a crucial role in local culture.

Conservation

Kailua Bay Charter Company practices reef-safe tourism by educating guests on protecting fragile coral ecosystems and following local marine protection guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunset
Early morning light
Twilight during night glass bottom tours

Best Viewpoints

  • Aboard the boat facing west during sunset
  • From the deck when departing Honokohau Harbor
  • Overhead glass bottom areas with clear water

What to Photograph

Colorful reef fish and coral formations
Silhouetted volcanic coastlines at sunset
Nighttime ocean bioluminescence on glass bottom tours

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin and the surrounding coral reefs from harmful chemicals.

summer specific

Light jacket or windbreaker

Essential

Keeps you comfortable against ocean breezes and cooler morning temperatures.

spring|fall|winter specific

Motion sickness remedy

Useful for guests sensitive to rolling seas during choppy conditions.

year-round specific

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated under the Hawaiian sun during your onboard adventure.

year-round specific