Royal Humpback Whale Experience in Hilo, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required as the tour is mostly seated with occasional boat movement.
Overview
Set sail on a private 1.5-hour boat tour with Hilo Ocean Adventures to see majestic humpback whales up close. Discover their acrobatic displays and haunting songs in Hawaii’s beautiful waters.
Royal Humpback Whale Experience
1.5 hours • Ages 8+ • Offered Seasonally from December 16th - April 30th
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 1.5-hour whale watching adventure in Hawaii, where you’ll witness the majestic Humpback Whales during their incredible migration. Experience their acrobatics and haunting songs while enjoying stunning ocean views. Enhance your journey with a unique Whale Song Snorkel Package for a truly immersive encounter with these gentle giants.
Come catch a glimpse of Hawai‘i’s gentle giants and winter visitor, the Humpback Whale!
Duration
1.5 hours
About
Come along for the ride to catch a glimpse of Hawaii's gentle giants and winter visitors, the Humpback Whale! After a nonstop 6-8 week and 6,000-mile migration from Alaska, approximately 12,000 North Pacific Humpbacks arrive in the Hawaiian Islands every year around mid-December for a season of mating, birthing, and nurturing their newborn calves. This annual migration is one of the longest of any mammal and brings magic to the Hawaiian Islands each winter.
Make your way to the coast to begin your whale watching experience in search of these majestic creatures for a once in a lifetime experience. The Big Island is one of the best places to get out on the water and encounter whales. The best way to view these incredible mammals is to journey out to sea with an ocean guided tour boat.
Upgrade your adventure with a Whale Song Snorkel Package. This full sensory package allows you to hear the humpback whales while you snorkel in the incredible waters of Hawai’i. Your journey includes a snorkel set, fins and optional life jacket.
Whales seem to love playing in the water, just as much as humans do. Despite their size, Humpback Whales are surprisingly acrobatic. They show this by frequently leaping out of the water and slapping their tails on the water. These amazing mammals are also renowned for their beautiful and haunting songs, which, you will experience yourself. Humpback Whales have a strong cultural value in Hawaii.
So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the beautiful island of Hawaii and go in search of these larger than life animals.
Disclaimer
This tour: Is not suitable for those who are pregnant, over 300lbs, have back / mobility problems, or cannot swim unassisted in the open ocean.
All tours: Leave promptly at the specified time. Tours will not be held back for late arrivals and missed tours will not be eligible for refund. If guests require rental gear for this adventure, they will be responsible for showing up before the specified time in order to have gear fitted and be ready for an on-time departure.
What To Bring With You A few items to bring include sunscreen (non-spray or tinted), sunglasses, a towel, and rain gear!
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars
Enhance your whale spotting from the boat by bringing a pair of binoculars to catch distant breaches and tail slaps.
Wear sunscreen and a hat
The Hawaiian sun can be strong on open water, so protect yourself with reef-safe sunscreen and a sunhat.
Stay hydrated
Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the tour, especially on warm days.
Motion sickness precautions
If you’re prone to seasickness, take preventive medication or use acupressure bands before the tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whales
- Spinner dolphins
History
Hilo has a rich history as one of Hawaii’s oldest cities with strong ties to native Hawaiian culture and ocean traditions.
Conservation
Hilo Ocean Adventures follows strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to the whales and supports marine conservation efforts in Hawaiian waters.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hilo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting whales at a distance during the migration season.
winter specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin from the Hawaiian sun while staying environmentally responsible.
summer specific
Light windbreaker
Keeps you warm and dry against ocean breezes and occasional rain.
winter specific
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is essential during your boat tour adventure.