Whale Watch Cruise in Kona, HI

Where does the cruise depart from?
We are located on the Big Island of Hawaii and depart from the Kailua Pier in the heart of Kailua-Kona side approximately six miles south of Keahole Kona Airport.

What time should we arrive?
Boarding is always 30 minutes before departure.  We depart on time and cannot hold the vessel for late arrivals.

What if I've never snorkeled before?
We specialize in accommodating those who are new to snorkeling and non-swimmers. We offer "Snorkeling 101" for beginners or those wanting a refresher course. Our location is a protected bay that offers calm pool like conditions and we offer an array of flotation water toys including ski vests, life jackets, noodles, sea view boards, boogie boards and inner tubes. Our Captain's and Crew are First Aid, CPR and Life Guard certified. There are always at least 3 designated Life Guards who are on watch while anyone is in the water.

Do you have prescription masks?
Yes, we offer masks with built in prescription lenses ranging from -1.5 to -7.0 at no additional charge.

Can I bring my own mask and gear?
While we encourage our guests to bring their own mask, fins, and snorkels, we DO NOT allow the use of full-face masks on our excursions aboard the vessel, Kanoa II. During snorkeling activity, the need for more oxygen requires us to breathe faster. With a full-face mask, some of the exhaled carbon dioxide may not fully exit the device, and it is possible to breathe in the contaminated air that has the potential to lead to unconsciousness and fatalities.

Do you offer SNUBA?
Yes & No. We offer Power Diving also known as Hooka diving which lets you enjoy the extended diving ability of SCUBA without heavy tanks or gear through an unlimited air supply that floats on the surface. Hooka diving requires no experience and is ideal for family members over the age of 12 and is available for an additional fee.

Do you offer SCUBA?
Yes. For those who wish to learn SCUBA, introductory lessons are available on the cruise with PADI instructors provided by Kona Sea Adventures. If you're a certified diver, you can SCUBA dive with us for an additional fee.*

Do you offer wetsuits?
Yes, we offer rental wetsuits. Our water temperature ranges from about 78 - 82 degrees. Most of our guests are comfortable with their swim suits or a rash guard to keep them from getting chilled, however, we understand that some get chilled more than others and have these suits available for an additional charge of $10.*

Can you accommodate wheelchairs?
We are 100% wheel chair accessible on our vessel's lower deck.  We require notification by phone when guests are traveling with a wheelchair in order to offer our pier parking,  as we have only two spaces.  If there's space we will note that the guest is using the space and will request that they call the office at boarding time for pier access. The guest will wait at the gate for a crew member to let them onto the pier.  They must be traveling with a handicap placard in order to take advantage pier parking.  When there's a cruise ship in port we do not have pier parking available.

I have special dietary needs, can you accommodate me?
Yes. All Gluten Free, Vegan, and Vegetarian meal requests must be called into the office with 48 hours notice. We do understand that sometimes you cannot let us know within 48 hours notice;  in those cases,  call us first before ensuring guests that a special meal option is available.  We will always do our best to accommodate last minute requests but it's dependent on what our kitchen team can do with less than 48 hours notice.

Will I get sea sick?
The bigger the boat, the more stable it is. Our vessel is 65' in length with a 30' beam and the largest boat of our kind on the Kona Coast. It's a totally different experience than being on a smaller boat or a raft. If you know you are prone to seasickness, we recommend you take Bonine or Dramamine the night before and another several hours before your cruise. Please read directions to see that you are able to take this medication. We carry this on board however it is best to have it in your system prior to boarding. You more likely to feel better on the lower deck of the vessel as there is less pitch. We also offer complimentary Ginger pills and a Ginger drink which is great for motion sickness and it's all natural.

Do you have bathrooms or showers on board?
Yes, we have three large bathrooms and 2 outdoor fresh water showers on our boat.

Is there any shade on your boat?
Yes, the Kanoa II has a lower and upper deck with plenty of shaded area as well as areas for sunbathing.

What should I bring with me?
For our snorkel dolphin adventure, we recommend you bring your suit, towel, and sunglasses. If you wish to SCUBA, Power Dive or wish to purchase cocktails or retail items such as underwater cameras, we recommend you bring extra cash or credit cards. If you are joining us for our Historical Dinner Cruise, we recommend a lightweight jacket and comfortable flat shoes. We accept all major credit cards.

Should I bring sunscreen?
No, unless you have medical reasons to use a specific brand. Body Glove Cruises is the first boat in the state of Hawaii to offer a "Reef Safe" sunscreen that does not harm the coral reef and stays on your skin and not in our ocean. We have several SPF pump stations onboard for complimentary use.

Can we go ashore during our cruise?
No, in order to protect the sensitive coral reefs, marine shoreline and the safety of our guests no one is allowed to climb onto land. Each vessel will act as your private island allowing you to come and go as you please while you enjoy your day at sea.

Do you provide transportation from my hotel or condo?
Yes, for an additional charge we provide transportation from the Waikoloa area through Jack's Tours. You may find it more economical and convenient to rent a car, otherwise, there are a number of taxi companies that can assist you.

Will we see whales?
The best opportunity to see whales is between late December and late March when the Humpback Whales migrate to Hawaii from the north Pacific. During that time of year, we offer daily Whale Watching cruises and guarantee sightings or come again Free! There are several other species of whales that live in Hawaiian waters year around and are occasionally seen during one of our cruises.

Will we see dolphins?
There is a 90% chance of seeing dolphins all year around from our boat as they enjoy riding our wake. On rare occasions, about once every week and a half they come to visit us at our snorkel location.

What's the difference between snorkeling in the morning versus the afternoon?
Contrary to what you might have heard, the morning does not offer any additional marine life or marine encounters. The same number and types of fish live and swim in the bays all day long. The main difference is you are more likely to have clear skies, less wind and a better chance of seeing dolphins.

Where will I find free parking?
You are welcome to park for free at our Office located one block away from the Kailua Pier. You may park at the Hotel King Kamehameha which is closer however they charge $3 an hour. If you require handicapped parking there are two stalls located in the cul-de-sac in front of the Kailua Pier but come early as they are used frequently.

Is there a reduced rate for those just riding along?
Yes, there are ride along rates on our Deluxe Snorkel BBQ & Dolphin Watch. The price is the same as the child rate. A ride along guest does not get in the water at all.  If they change their mind on board an upgrade fee to the adult ticket will be charged.  Ride along options are only available for adult guests.  Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.