Set sail from Kailua-Kona aboard the luxurious Hoku ‘Elima for a customizable 4-hour private ocean charter, perfect for wildlife watchers and ocean lovers seeking intimate Hawaiian waters.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for comfortable time aboard and occasional snorkeling steps
Wildlife
History
Honokohau Marina is near historic Kailua-Kona, established as a key port and capital in the Kingdom of Hawaii during the 19th century.
Conservation
This area emphasizes reef preservation; guests are educated on minimizing their impact to protect marine habitats.
Ali'i Ocean Tours
Set sail from Kailua-Kona aboard the luxurious Hoku ‘Elima for a customizable 4-hour private ocean charter, perfect for wildlife watchers and ocean lovers seeking intimate Hawaiian waters.
Ali'i Ocean Tours is a Kona-based ocean tour operator located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The company offers a variety of guided marine experiences, including private charters, reef snorkels, dolphin encounters, manta ray swims, ocean safaris, and whale watching. Trips listed by the operator include the Private Charter (Ali'i Package), Private Charter (5 Star Package), Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari, Daytime Manta Encounter and Whale Watch, Afternoon Kealakekua Bay Snorkel, K-Bay Reef Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter, and Whale Watching Tours.
Guides and crew provide safety briefings, snorkeling instruction, and wildlife viewing from vessels such as the Hoku ‘Elima. The Private Charter (Ali'i Package) and Private Charter (5 Star Package) allow customizable itineraries; the 5 Star package description notes more than 30 years of experience guiding guests to ideal viewing areas. Kealakekua Bay departures and Honokohau Harbor departures are included among offered trips.
Ali'i Ocean Tours emphasizes small-group and private experiences to maintain comfort, an intimate atmosphere, and high-quality service. Equipment, light refreshments, and trained staff support reef snorkeling and paddleboarding opportunities where specified. The Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari focuses on searching for key marine species along Kona’s coastline and includes snorkeling and lunch on longer trips. The Daytime Manta Encounter and Whale Watch offers guided swims with manta rays and searches for humpback whales during applicable seasons.
All claims reflect supplied trip descriptions and location details. Prospective guests should review specific trip pages or contact Ali'i Ocean Tours for current schedules, availability, and exact vessel information. Bookings and questions are handled through their Kona office.
Years Experience
30+ years
Decades guiding Kona waters
Tours Offered
7 experiences
Range of private and group trips
Base Location
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Departures from Kona harbor
Flagship Vessel
Hoku ‘Elima
Private charter vessel in service
Secure private charters, reef snorkels, manta encounters, and Kona safaris — check availability and book online or by phone.
Book Ahead for Peak Seasons
Reserve your private charter well in advance during winter months when whale sightings increase.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the fragile marine environment by using eco-friendly sunscreen during all excursions.
Wear Non-Slip Footwear
Ensure safe movement aboard the boat with sturdy, non-slip shoes.
Hydrate and Snack
Pack water and light snacks as your private 4-hour trip offers limited provisions.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Essential to protect yourself and Hawaii’s coral reefs.
summer
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
Necessary for snorkeling and comfort on deck.
summer
Hat and polarized sunglasses
Reduce glare and sun exposure during daytime cruises.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Useful if weather turns cooler or for early morning outings.
winter