Set sail from Kawaihae Harbor for a private snorkel adventure along Hawaii's Kona-Kohala Coast. Swim with sea turtles, explore vibrant reefs, and enjoy a delicious picnic on this family-friendly trip.
Set sail from Kawaihae Harbor for a private snorkel adventure along Hawaii's Kona-Kohala Coast. Swim with sea turtles, explore vibrant reefs, and enjoy a delicious picnic on this family-friendly trip.
Book with Ocean Sports Cruises
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Ocean Sports Cruises · Waimea, Hawaii
easy.
3–4 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to swim and basic comfort in the water is important.
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children with basic swimming ability, supervised closely by guides.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a swimsuit, towel, water bottle, and a waterproof camera if you want to take photos.
Yes, snorkel gear is included along with refreshing drinks and picnic snacks during the trip.
Absolutely, guides provide orientation and support to ensure everyone enjoys the experience safely.
You may see Hawaiian sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and occasionally reef sharks in the area.
Yes, Kawaihae Harbor is accessible by car from nearby towns including Kailua-Kona and has parking available.
Kawaihae Harbor historically served as a significant fishing and trade port for Native Hawaiians, shaping local culture for centuries.
Ocean Sports Cruises practices eco-friendly policies to protect delicate reef ecosystems and encourages guests to respect marine wildlife.
Ocean Sports Cruises is a Waikoloa Village, Hawaii-based operator specializing in whale watches, snorkel adventures, and sunset cruises along the Kohala Coast. The company runs departures from Anaeho'omalu Bay and Kawaihae Harbor, operating stable catamarans with experienced crews and naturalist-guided interpretation during humpback season (December–March). Trips include early-morning and late-morning whale watches, Pau Hana sunset cruises, and three-hour snorkel whale watch adventures that combine coastal sailing with guided snorkeling, picnic snacks, and onboard hydrophones to hear humpback song. Ocean Sports Cruises offers a whale-spotting guarantee: if a whale is not seen, customers may ride again until a sighting occurs on qualifying trips. Safety protocols, life jackets, and trained crew are standard; vessels are suitable for families and photographers seeking marine wildlife encounters. On snorkel whale watch trips, guests receive briefings, guided snorkel tours, and complimentary snacks and drinks. Sunset cruises provide two-hour experiences with beverages, light snacks, scenic viewpoints, and optional casual sailing at the helm under crew supervision. Departures vary by trip and harbor; specific options include Pau Hana Sunset Cruises and Wake Up With the Whales, as well as snorkel-integrated excursions from both Anaeho'amalu Bay and Kawaihae Harbor. The operator focuses on responsible wildlife viewing within the National Marine Humpback Whale Sanctuary, emphasizing respectful distances, educated narration, and memorable coastal experiences for visitors seeking authentic Hawaiian marine encounters. Reservations are offered online and by phone. Seasonal schedules run primarily December through March for humpback season, with multiple daily departures depending on trip type and harbor, and weather conditions.
Book with Ocean Sports Cruises