Whether you have years of experience in whale-watching or just starting, Big Island offers a variety of breathtaking tours and options for viewing these captivating mammals. From water Adventures that put you right up close on your kayak tour to luxury catamaran cruises where professional guides show off fascinating facts while pointing out various whales around each beautiful section of the coastline. Read on to understand more about some of the best whale-watching tours on the Big Island and find the perfect one for your needs!
Why The Big Island Is An Ideal Location For Whale-Watching
The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the world’s most spectacular and eye-catching destinations for whale-watching. With its long, jagged coastline and warm waters, the area has become home to diverse populations of migrating Humpback whales and Hawaiian Spinner dolphins, sharks, manta rays, and giant green sea turtles. The region also boasts some of the best visibility in the Pacific Ocean, with visibility often exceeding 200ft.
Moreover, with shore-based services around the island available to take visitors on whale-watching trips year-round, it’s an activity that can be enjoyed without disturbing the animals with too much noise or overcrowding. Therefore, Hawaii’s Big Island is ideal for those looking for an unforgettable adventure watching these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Top Whale-Watching Tours
When planning your excursion to Big Island, you have several different whale-watching tours. From kayaking to luxury cruises, here are some of the best options for seeing these amazing animals:
Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure
Brave the waves and explore the wondrous creatures that inhabit the waters around The Big Island on this exhilarating Zodiac Raft whale-watching adventure. Travel along the Kona Coast for spectacular views as you observe majestic humpback whales, spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, manta rays, and more from a safe distance.
While federal laws prevent the boat from approaching within 100 feet (30 meters), it isn’t uncommon for whales to swim up under the boat, amazing onlookers with an incredible sight. You will have a chance to witness these breathtaking whales close up and explore many of Hawaii’s intriguing geological formations, such as lava tubes and sea caves. Be sure to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Hulakai Hawaiian Canoe Paddling Adventure
On a Hulakai Hawaiian Canoe Paddling Adventure, you can expect an intimate and richly rewarding experience. Departing from Anaeho’omalu Bay in Waikoloa with up to three passengers and one guide, you can be sure your group will enjoy great personal attention and safety. As you venture out along the scenic beauty of the Kohala Coast and arrive at the whale habitats at a time before or during migration season, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for majestic humpback whales that invite themselves as an unforgettable part of your trip.
With competition-grade double hulls that ensure stability combined with the elevated view of these sea creatures and the stunning backdrop of Hawaii’s sparkling ocean views, this tour promises lasting memories of adventure and exploration, which its unique cultural significance can only match to Hawaii.
Hawaii Nautical Luxury Powerboat Whale Watch
Experience the beauty of Hawaii’s Kohala Coast with a unique small-group whale watch on the Makai. This luxury powerboat fits up to 6 passengers, and each seat offers a breathtaking view. Whether you book the boat for one person or fill it up with friends and family, this will surely be an experience like no other.
On your tour, you will observe whales in their natural environment and take plenty of amazing photos; if you don’t spot any whales on your first trip, come back another time for free! Reserve your front-row seat today – Hawaii Nautical’s Luxury Powerboat Whale Watch awaits you!
Hilo Ocean Adventures Whale Watch Ocean Exploration
Hilo Ocean Adventures Whale Watching experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. These gentle giants make an annual trek of 6,000 miles, from the cold waters of Alaska, to the warmer, nutrient-rich waters of Hawaii’s Big Island in mid-December, which allows them to breed and nurture their babies for up to 8 weeks.
The migration of these whales marks the start of a unique experience off the coast of Hilo port for marine enthusiasts who can witness these beautiful creatures up close in all their glory. An amazing sight will stay with you for many years as a lasting memory!
Kaimana Ocean Safari
An adventure of exploration awaits on the Kaimana Ocean Safari. This unique boat tour takes travelers on a journey of discovery along the Kona coastline, providing unprecedented insight into the vibrant marine life in these waters. Get ready to encounter whales, dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays, and more as you explore the diverse coral reefs and deep-sea habitats.
From majestic humpback whales swimming alongside your boat to pods of spinner dolphins bounding in the wake, Kaimana Ocean Safari gives you an unparalleled opportunity to witness these wonders of nature up close.
Ocean Sports Cruises Wake Up With the Whales Cruise
An Ocean Sports Cruises Wake Up with the Whales Cruise is a journey of exploration, discovery, and education. Reconnect with the lush natural beauty of Hawaii as you make your way along the breathtaking Kohala Coast. With every sighting of these majestic humpback whales, learn more about their critical importance to our environment and appreciate the melodic songs they use to communicate with each other.
Whether you’ve been cruising before or are just starting, enjoy expert naturalist commentary that informs and entertains while making yourself comfortable with drinks onboard and snacks available during your voyage. Take advantage of the provided hydrophones so you can immerse yourself in whale songs and witness this wonderous nature rite up close!
Captain Dan McSweeney’s Whale Watch Learning Adventures
With his dedication and knowledge of whale research, Captain Dan McSweeney takes tourists on a truly educational journey with his Whale Watch Learning Adventures. Travelers will be able to get up close and personal with majestic whales and learn the significance of protecting the ocean ecosystem from an expert.
Above all, the tour is tailored for whale-watching enthusiasts as it is Kona’s only full-time charter. Thus, visitors can rest assured that their experience will be preserved by lingering at other luring attractions. Ultimately, Captain Dan McSweeney strives to offer a unique experience to all visitors, inspiring them with a greater appreciation for nature’s beauty.
Enjoy One Of These Amazing Whale-Watching Tours!
Whale watching is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should be enjoyed whenever possible. With so many different options available in Hawaii, there’s something for everyone – take a cruise, go on an ocean safari, or explore with an expert naturalist. No matter your choice, you can surely come away with some fantastic memories and a greater appreciation for these majestic creatures and the beautiful oceans they live in. So don’t wait – book your whale-watching tour today!