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Private Charter in Kailua-Kona, HI

Kona Ocean Adventures • Keauhou Boat Harbor • Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

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Snorkel circle - Private Charter in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Couple seated on a boat under a blue canopy, with a man holding a can and a woman wearing a sunhat. She's resting her hand on his shoulder. A plate of snacks is beside them.

Private tour - Private Charter in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Swim with turtles - Private Charter in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

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Based on 229 reviews

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Private Boat Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Kona Coast Adventure is not currently available.

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About Private Boat Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Kona Coast Adventure

Overview

Plan your own private cruise around Kona! Whether you want to see the dolphins, snorkel, or simply see the sights, you can do that and more when you book your own private boat charter. Kona Ocean Experience’s knowledgeable captains can tailor your experience to your preferences for the perfect vacation. Private charters can accommodate up to six guests.

up to 4 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

Build your own tour experience with knowledgeable tour guides.
Cruise on a 7-meter US Navy Seal boat.
Seats up to 6 people maximum for an uncrowded excursion.
Discover Hawaii’s natural beauty and sea life.

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Kealakekua Bay Reserve - Private Charter in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Dolphins escorting boat - Private Charter in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Two people sitting on a boat, smiling, holding drinks, with a scenic backdrop of water, trees, and rocky hills. Pink flotation noodles are visible in the foreground.

Four people in snorkeling gear sitting on a boat, smiling, with a coastline and a mountain in the background.

A vibrant underwater scene with a school of yellow and black fish swimming over a colorful coral reef in clear blue water.

Description

This private adventure invites you to set sail aboard a secure Willard Navy SEAL boat for an unforgettable ocean experience. Witness the captivating energy of wild spinner dolphins and, during the season, humpback whales as you journey along the stunning Kona Coast.

The excursion heads south to explore fascinating sea caves and offers snorkeling in the tranquil waters of Kealakekua Bay Reserve, renowned as Hawaii's premier snorkeling destination. Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, this bay is a haven for vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs.

After snorkeling, unwind aboard with light snacks and refreshing green tea while learning about the rich history and cultural significance of the area. On the return to Keauhou Bay, keep an eye out for other marine wonders, including manta rays, sea turtles, and possibly more whales.

Private Boat Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Kona Coast Adventure Reviews

Based on 229 reviews

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B4584JGsarahe

"Superb manta ray experience"

Reviewed January 09, 2026 NEW

Magical snorkel with the manta rays - it is a totally ethereal experience where you are in their world! Bambi helped us move our scheduled time so that we avoided bad incoming weather and had a superb time. This team goes from near the manta Ray village, so while it’s a little further by car, the shorter boat ride is good - especially when coming back in the dark when you are wet! Loved this trip - very recommended.

sherrycE8613YR

"Magical manta ray experience."

Reviewed November 22, 2025

This was my daughter's first trip to the island and I wanted her to experience something new, so we took the night cruise with Bambi to see the manta rays and it was truly a magical experience for my daughter and I. Bambi was amazing on explaining everything we were experiencing. At first my daughter was scared but with Bambis experience and gentleness she put us at ease. 1000 percent worth it experience. I would recommend her tours all day long. Small and intimate and worth every minute. They treat you like family and you learn so many wonderful things along the way in this trip

danapV5975XK

"Magical and almost heaven"

Reviewed November 10, 2025

I has the pleasure of going out with Captin Bambi on the night manna ray and the morning snorkeling. I had never done anything like that in my 55 years and yet with Bambies help I felt right at home and was able to snorkel for the first time in my life. The whole experience was mystical and magical and changed my life.

jianhengl2025

"Feels like a scam"

Reviewed October 18, 2025

Very shady business. I reserved a tour with this company. But decided to cancel a week before the actual tour date. On the tour confirmation email, it clearly said that I need to call to make changes to the tour. I tried to call multiple times on different days and left them a voice message. No one picked any call or returned a call to me. On the date of the tour, the owner called me and told me that I will not get any refund cause I didn’t contact them by email to cancel. The whole thing feels like a scam. Don’t recommend to order any tour with them. There are many options at Kona

Journey372646

Reviewed July 22, 2025

We loved the manta ray snorkel tour and the dolphin watch (including two great snorkel spots). It is a much more beautiful and personal experience to be on an almost private tour (max 6 persons) which makes it an ideal solution for families. Our two sons (7 and 9y) loved it as well, so we can definitely recommend both tours!

View all 229 Tripadvisor Reviews

Private Boat Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Kona Coast Adventure is located at Kona Ocean Adventures • Keauhou Boat Harbor • Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

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Frequently Asked Questions about Private Boat Charter: Kealakekua Bay Snorkel and Kona Coast Adventure

What type of boat will I be on?

Private charter tours are on either The Lei Plana or The Horizon. Both boats are 7-meter US Navy Seals boats.

Will I spot sea animals?

It’s likely! Should you choose to add snorkeling to your experience, you’ll increase your chances of seeing Hawaii’s notable underwater creatures.

Where does this private boat charter in Kona depart from?

You will meet your guide at the Keauhou Bay Boat Ramp, located at 78-7100 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.

When should we arrive?

Please arrive at Keauhou Bay 30 minutes prior to departure time to allow for parking and check-in.

What should I bring?

Bring your swimsuit, a towel, sandals, sunscreen, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirt or rash-guard (even if it's cloudy), and a hat to protect your head from the sun. Also, be sure to pack your waterproof camera.

Are there bathrooms on board?

There are no restrooms aboard. The last chance to use a restroom is at the boat ramp before check-in.

What safety measures are in place?

In addition to life jackets onboard, the captains and crew are 100% first aid and CPR trained and certified.

Can I bring my own snorkeling gear?

Yes, however there is no discount for bringing your own equipment.

How do I get to the boat ramp?

FROM THE NORTH (Kohala Coast or Waikoloa Resort Areas): • Take HI-19 South and continue onto HI-11. • Turn RIGHT onto Kamehameha III Road • Turn LEFT onto Ali`i Drive • Turn RIGHT onto Kaleiopapa Street Going downhill, continue over the series of speed bumps. Pass the Sheraton’s entrance (on the left), stay to the right and arrive at Keauhou Bay. PLEASE NOTE: When traveling from the Kohala Coast or Waikoloa Resort Areas, please allow a minimum of 1 Hour travel time for the morning and afternoon tours. Due to local evening traffic, a minimum of 1.5 Hours travel time is advised for either Manta Tour. FROM THE SOUTH (South Kona or Ka`u Districts): • Take HI-11 North. • Turn LEFT onto Kamehameha III Road • Turn LEFT onto Ali`i Drive • Turn RIGHT onto Kaleiopapa Street Going downhill, continue over the series of speed bumps. Pass the Sheraton’s entrance (on the left), stay to the right and arrive at Keauhou Bay.