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Kona Super-Raft Snorkel: 4-Hour Raft Adventure to Coral Reefs and Dolphins - Kailua-Kona

Kona Super-Raft Snorkel: 4-Hour Raft Adventure to Coral Reefs and Dolphins

Kailua-Konamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Moderately fit: must be comfortable swimming, climbing back aboard a moving raft, and doing short surface swims between boat and reef.

Overview

Climb aboard a 41-foot Super-Raft and sample two distinct Kona snorkeling sites in one fast, comfortable four-hour outing. Expect reef gardens, spinner dolphins, island-style bites, and clear practical guidance to make the most of your day on the water.

Kona Super-Raft Snorkel: 4-Hour Raft Adventure to Coral Reefs and Dolphins

The engine thumps, the hull lifts, and the coastline of Kona rushes aft—black lava cliffs, coffee farms perched on terraces, and the first green lee of reef. On Body Glove Cruises’ 41-foot Super-Raft, the morning opens fast: a cushioned seat under shade, a crew briefing, and the sea arranging itself into invitations. Within twenty minutes the boat is carving past the pier, and the ocean that has pulled island culture into itself for centuries starts to show off.

Adventure Photos

Kona Super-Raft Snorkel: 4-Hour Raft Adventure to Coral Reefs and Dolphins photo 1

Adventure Tips

Arrive 30 minutes early

The Kona Explorer departs from the left side of the Kailua-Kona Pier; arrive early to complete waivers and get fitted for gear.

Use reef-safe sunscreen

Sunscreen is provided, but bring and apply reef-safe SPF to protect coral and yourself between swims.

Bring motion-sickness prevention

The raft is fast and can be choppy; consider wristbands or antiemetic medication if you're prone to nausea.

Keep a secure waterproof camera

Small waterproof cameras or housings work best for shots at the surface and on-deck portraits; large DSLRs are impractical.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtle (honu)
  • Spinner dolphin

History

Kona’s nearshore waters supported traditional Hawaiian fishing practices and continue to be central to local culture and livelihood.

Conservation

Tours emphasize reef-safe sunscreen and no-touch policies to protect fragile coral; avoid anchoring on reefs and follow crew directions to minimize impact.

Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin and coral; applied before departing and between swims.

summer specific

Quick-dry towel

Essential

Dries fast after surface swims and keeps you warm under shade after snorkeling.

Rash guard or sun shirt

Provides extra UV protection and reduces irritation from salt and gear.

summer specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated in the sun—crew provides water but having your own keeps you topped up.