Sail & Snorkel Kealakekua Bay: Captain Cook Monument Catamaran Cruise
Set sail from Keauhou Bay for a half-day catamaran cruise to the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay’s protected reef. Expect calm morning sails, two snorkel stops, and abundant marine life—including spinner dolphins and sea turtles—in one of Hawaii’s clearest coves.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for check-in
Check in at 8:15 a.m. at Keauhou Bay’s finger pier—parking fills fast and boarding begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Respect the marine sanctuary
Do not touch coral or feed wildlife; anchors and fishing are restricted around the monument to protect reef habitat.
Prepare for motion
Take seasickness medication before boarding if you’re prone to motion sickness—morning swells are usually mild but conditions change.
Bring a waterproof camera
Underwater photos are the highlight—bring a decent dive mask and a waterproof camera or housing for best shots.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look back toward the Kona coastline from the south for layered lava terraces and private coves.
- •If conditions allow, the second snorkel at Red Hill has quieter reef sections with different fish species.
Wildlife
- •Spinner dolphins
- •Hawaiian green sea turtles
Conservation Note
Kealakekua Bay is a designated marine sanctuary—fishing and touching coral are restricted, and operators emphasize reef-safe sunscreen and no-contact practices to protect the ecosystem.
The Captain Cook Monument marks the spot where Captain James Cook was killed in 1779; the bay was also a site of traditional Hawaiian ritual and settlement.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the catamaran facing the monument for clear framing
- • Just above the reef line during snorkeling for wide-angle underwater shots
- • From the stern as you sail the Kona coastline to capture lava cliffs and water color
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the reef; the operator supplies some but bring extras for full-day protection.
Mask and snorkel (personal)
Personal gear often fits better and avoids fogging—rental gear is provided but quality varies.
Lightweight rashguardEssential
Sun protection that dries quickly on deck and in the water.
Waterproof camera or housing
Captures underwater color and dolphin encounters—bring spare batteries or memory.
Common Questions
Where is the meeting point and what time?
Check in at 8:15 a.m. at Keauhou Bay finger pier (end of Kaleiopapa St.); boarding begins about 15 minutes before the 8:30 a.m. departure.
Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes—snorkel gear and flotation noodles are provided, along with reef-safe sunscreen.
Can we land at the Captain Cook Monument?
The monument sits in a protected area with limited landing options; this cruise offers snorkel stops but does not include landing at the monument.
Are restrooms available?
Public restrooms are at the pier and there are restrooms onboard the Hoku Nui.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes—this is family-friendly, but children should be comfortable in the water and supervised while snorkeling.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4.5 hours
Location
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—requires basic mobility to board/exit the boat and moderate swimming ability for snorkeling.
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