Can I see manta rays during the day?

Mainly, manta rays are nocturnal, so most tours targeting sightings are scheduled at night under illuminated waters.

Is this trip suitable for children?

Yes, children of all ages can join, provided they are comfortable on a boat and in the water, with adult supervision.

There’s a good chance you'll get splashed or swim briefly, so wear suitable clothing and bring a change if needed.

Are the trips canceled if weather is bad?

Trips are weather dependent; the company will reschedule or refund if conditions are unsafe.

Do I need prior experience?

No experience is necessary; the focus is on guided wildlife viewing and enjoying the ocean.

What’s the best time of year for manta ray sightings?

Manta rays can be seen year-round, but they're most active at night, especially between spring and fall.

Water Activities: Big Island Boat Tours - Encounter Manta Rays | Boat Tour | Snorkel

Located off the coast of the Big Island in Hawaii, Big Island Boat Tours offers a quintessential marine adventure that combines the thrill of ocean exploration with the chance to witness one of Hawaii’s most remarkable creatures: the manta ray. The tour takes place in the warm, clear waters surrounding the island, a haven for these gentle giants. As you set sail on a private charter, the guiding principles revolve around personalized experiences and close encounters with the ocean's marvels. The highlight? The incredible opportunity to see manta rays gliding gracefully beneath your boat, their massive wingspans and shimmering bodies illuminated by underwater lights during night tours. These encounters are not only photo-worthy but evoke a profound sense of awe at the power and serenity of marine life. The Big Island’s rich volcanic landscape provides a stunning backdrop, with lava formations and lush coastlines framing your adventure. The waters here are a biodiverse hotspot, home to colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and plenty of tropical fish, making each trip not just about manta rays but an immersive marine ecosystem. The company’s flexible scheduling ensures you maximize good weather, and their knowledgeable crew prioritizes safety and eco-conscious tourism practices. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time boat-goer, this trip welcomes all levels and emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing. A trip with Big Island Boat Tours captures the essence of oceanic adventure, blending comfort with wild encounters. It’s a prime activity for anyone visiting Hawaii eager to experience its marine wonderland firsthand while supporting sustainable tourism in one of the world’s most unique island environments.

About Big Island Boat Tours

Big Island Boat Tours is a marine tour operator based in Kailua‑Kona, Hawaii, offering guided boat excursions around Hawai‘i Island. The company specializes in manta ray night snorkels, private charters, and coastal marine adventures that showcase local marine life and shoreline landmarks.

Each trip is led by experienced captains and crew who provide safety briefings, snorkeling instruction, and localized commentary about marine species and Hawaiian coastal history. The operator runs a Private Manta Ray Night Adventure focused on up‑close manta ray encounters beneath illuminated waters; a Private Charter that allows flexible, weather‑adapted itineraries; a Manta Ray Night Adventure with a return guarantee if manta rays are not observed; and a Capt. Cook / Kealakekua Bay Marine Adventure combining snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, coastline cruising, and a shore-side lunch.

Based in Kailua‑Kona, the company uses convenient access to Kona waters and Kealakekua Bay to reach renowned snorkeling sites, sea caves, and whale and dolphin viewing areas when seasonally appropriate. The business emphasizes guest safety, compliance with local marine regulations, and respectful wildlife viewing practices to protect animals and habitats. Scheduling is adapted as needed to account for weather and sea conditions.

For visitors seeking memorable manta ray encounters, private boat time, or a historical snorkeling cruise to Kealakekua Bay, Big Island Boat Tours provides focused, shore‑to‑sea experiences that highlight Hawai‘i’s underwater biodiversity and coastal scenery. Customer safety and environmental stewardship inform every itinerary, and staff coordinate with local authorities to maintain best practices for marine wildlife interactions and visitor experience consistently.