Afternoon Sail and Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument — Kealakekua Bay Catamaran Trip
Sail the Kona coast to the Captain Cook Monument, then slip into Kealakekua Bay’s clear waters for a snorkel among colorful reef fish and spinner dolphins. This three-hour catamaran cruise is a compact, guided way to explore one of Hawai‘i’s best marine sanctuaries.
The Experience
Before You Go
Check in early at Keauhou
Arrive by 1:45pm to park on Kaleiopapa Street and meet the crew at the pier—boarding begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Although some is provided, carry a reef-safe SPF and apply before boarding to protect skin and the coral below.
Plan for seasickness
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take preventative meds before you board—the crossing can get choppy at times.
Waterproof camera or case
The bay’s underwater visibility is excellent; a waterproof camera or phone case ensures you capture fish and coral without risking gear.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look shoreward for small lava coves along the approach that host secluded tidepools worth a quick photo stop
- •The low bluff near the pier offers a short viewpoint to watch boats come and go and to study the coastal lava formations up close
Wildlife
- •Spinner dolphins
- •Green sea turtles
Conservation Note
Kealakekua Bay is a marine sanctuary with restrictions to protect coral and fish—use reef-safe sunscreen, don’t touch or stand on coral, and follow crew instructions.
Captain James Cook visited Kealakekua Bay in 1779; the white monument offshore marks the site associated with his death, while the area retains deep Hawaiian cultural connections.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the catamaran’s bow as you approach the monument
- • Atop the small pier/launch point at Keauhou before boarding
- • While floating above the reef near the monument
What to Bring
Rash guard or swim shirtEssential
Protects skin from sun and light abrasion while snorkeling.
Waterproof camera or housing
Captures underwater life and surface dolphins without risking your phone.
Light windbreaker
Afternoon trade winds can cool you on the return sail.
Over-the-counter seasickness medicationEssential
Useful for sensitive riders—take before boarding for best effect.
Common Questions
How long is the snorkel portion?
The tour includes roughly 60 minutes in the water near the monument, scheduled once anchored in Kealakekua Bay.
Are masks and fins provided?
Yes—masks, fins, snorkels, and flotation noodles are supplied by the operator.
Is this trip suitable for non-swimmers?
Non-swimmers can participate thanks to flotation devices, but comfort in the water and basic snorkeling ability are recommended.
Can we see spinner dolphins?
Pods of spinner dolphins are commonly sighted in the bay; sightings aren’t guaranteed but are frequent on afternoons with calm seas.
Are restrooms available?
Public restrooms are located at the Keauhou parking area and there are also restrooms onboard the vessel.
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic mobility for boarding and short swims is helpful
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