Escape the crowds and explore the vibrant marine life of Kealakekua Bay on this private Kona snorkeling tour. Snorkel in clear waters, enjoy a tasty lunch, and soak up breathtaking coastal views.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical fitness is recommended for swimming and snorkeling, but guided assistance is provided for all levels.
Wildlife
History
Kealakekua Bay is the site of Captain Cook’s first landing in Hawaii and holds significant cultural importance.
Conservation
Tours operate with a strong commitment to preserving the marine ecosystem by promoting responsible snorkeling practices.
Captain Zodiac
Escape the crowds and explore the vibrant marine life of Kealakekua Bay on this private Kona snorkeling tour. Snorkel in clear waters, enjoy a tasty lunch, and soak up breathtaking coastal views.
Captain Zodiac is a Kona-based marine tour operator operating from Kaiminani, Hawaii. The company runs small-group adventures aboard 24-foot Zodiac boats and military-grade Zodiac Hurricanes, focusing on close-up marine wildlife encounters and guided snorkeling in the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve. Naturalist captains lead each trip, combining wildlife observation with Hawaiian history and folklore to provide educational context for guests.
Trips include multiple Kealakekua Bay snorkeling options, a Kealakekua Express from historic Kailua Pier, seasonal whale watching excursions, pelagic wildlife safaris, targeted marine wildlife excursions, and private charters. Typical trip lengths range from a 2.5-hour express to 4–5 hour adventures. Activities regularly highlighted on tours include snorkeling at the Captain Cook monument, exploring lava tubes and sea caves, and searching for dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales when in season.
Captain Zodiac emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing — naturalist captains may use hydrophones during whale watches and invite guests to participate in citizen science during marine wildlife excursions. Private charters provide flexible departure times, secluded snorkeling spots, and on some trips a gourmet lunch as described in the private charter offering. All descriptions are based on published trip summaries and operating details for Captain Zodiac in Kaiminani, Hawaii.
Base Location
Kaiminani, HI
Operating from Kona coastline
Boat Type
Zodiac Hurricanes
Military-grade rigid inflatables
Main Destination
Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve
Tour Lengths
2.5–5 hours
Express to extended adventures
Reserve a Kealakekua Bay snorkeling trip, pelagic wildlife excursion, or private charter from Kaiminani — small groups, naturalist guides, and unforgettable marine encounters.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect delicate marine ecosystems by applying reef-safe sunscreen before your tour.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture stunning underwater moments and vibrant marine life with a waterproof camera or GoPro.
Stay Hydrated
Even in the water, staying hydrated is important—drink plenty of water before and after snorkeling.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow all safety instructions and snorkeling tips from your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the marine environment from harmful UV rays.
summer
Swimwear
Wear comfortable, quick-dry swimwear designed for water activities.
Waterproof Camera
Capture underwater wildlife and scenic views with a waterproof camera.
Light Towel and Change of Clothes
Dry off comfortably and change after your snorkeling adventure.