Private Tour
Private Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling
Overview
Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
There is no better way to explore Hawaii’s #1 snorkel destination than with an affordable private charter from HAWAII MARINE LIFE CHARTERS.
Vessel Designed for Exploration: We operate a 31’ Ocean Craft RHIB—This design offers stability, maneuverability and a faster, smoother ride to Kona’s remote coastal gems.
Size Matters: With a max 10-passengers, our private charters are more economical than the competition’s 14 or 18-pack boats.
All-Inclusive VIP Amenities:Other operators will nickel and dime their customers, but at HMLC all of the extras are included in your tour price.
Personal Concierge Experience: As private charter, our crew focuses solely on you, making this the perfect tour for beginner snorkelers and families with children.
Local Expertise: A family-owned business, Captain Brian and his crew leverage 30+ years of local knowledge to share Hawaiian history and "hidden gems" other tour operators may miss.
Your journey to Hawaii’s top snorkel destination starts here.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Experience the pinnacle of Kona snorkeling with a 3-1/2 hour private, 10-passenger maximum charter to the pristine 315 acre Kealakekua Bay Marine Sanctuary. HAWAII MARINE LIFE CHARTERS will host your own personalized, family-friendly adventure that takes you directly to the iconic Captain Cook Monument to swim in calm, crystal-clear water with over 400 species of fish, vibrant cauliflower coral, and Hawaiian green sea turtles. This exclusive journey along the historical Kona coast includes high-quality snorkeling gear, flotation devices, GoPro 13 photos and videos, and light snacks with beverages. Your private captain and crew offer expert marine insights and tailored itineraries—choose to snorkel longer, search for spinner dolphins, or explore hidden sea caves and lava tubes along the coastline. Avoid the crowds of larger boats with an intimate tour designed for comfort, adventure, and unforgettable marine encounters in one of Hawaii's most beautiful marine sanctuaries. Your bucket-list snorkel experience starts here.
What‘s Included
Hawaiian Juices
Bottled water
Snacks
Use of Snorkelling equipment
Fresh cut pineapple
Options
Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook) Snorkeling
Reviews
43 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best Snorkeling Experience!
Mobile789288,Mar 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the best experience with Mitch as our guide. I have been snorkeling but nothing compared to the beauty here. The ride in itself was such a great experience. We learned so much about the island, the history and spotted so many spinner dolphins. Great time (and I am not easy to please).
2 Tours 2 unforgettable experiences.
chrisrJ9379RM,May 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had the pleasure of experiencing two incredible tours with Hawaiian Marine Life Charters: the Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel and the Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour. Both were unforgettable and showed why this company deserves top marks for professionalism, knowledge, and passion for marine conservation. 1. Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel – 5/5 This was, hands down, one of the most magical experiences we’ve ever had. From the moment we arrived, the crew made us feel safe and welcome. After a short, smooth ride out to the manta ray site, we received a quick but thorough safety briefing. Once in the water, we floated on special light boards that attract plankton—and the manta rays followed. Within minutes, these gentle giants were gliding inches beneath us. Some were over 12 feet across, flipping and dancing through the water with surreal grace. The guides were informative, sharing fascinating facts about each individual ray (yes, they know them by name!) and the efforts to protect them. The staff’s respect for the ocean and its creatures really stood out. 2. Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour – 5/5 This morning tour was equally impressive but in a different way. We cruised down the beautiful Kona coast while our guide pointed out lava tubes, sea caves, and historic landmarks. When we arrived at Kealakekua Bay, the water was incredibly clear—visibility was easily 100 feet. The coral reef near the Captain Cook Monument is vibrant and teeming with life. We saw everything from colorful parrotfish and angelfish to a curious eel and even a pod of spinner dolphins on the way back. What sets Hawaiian Marine Life Charters apart is how well they balance fun with education. The guides are passionate, experienced, and eager to share the history of the area and tips on reef-safe snorkeling. If you’re in Kona and looking for authentic, small-group marine adventures with a company that truly cares about the ocean, Hawaiian Marine Life Charters is it. The Manta Ray Snorkel is a must-do bucket list experience, and the Captain Cook Monument tour is the perfect way to explore one of Hawaii’s best snorkeling sites.
Amazing
samanthatC1824RM,May 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So so much fun and very informative! Great atmosphere and made the whole morning so cool! Also did the night snorkeling with the mantarays which was just as enjoyable!
Wonderful snorkel experience with educational bonus!
748lisaj,Apr 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wow! This was a perfect tour! All the equipment was provided and safety was top priority ! For those folks who needed assistance the crew was on point! The educational review was so interesting as well. We had a bonus seeing both whales and sharks on the ride to the cove. Wonderful experience and would rate this captain and crew 11+ !!! It was so great we booked another tour during the trip. The small group is the way to go for sure. Thank you for a wonderful tour!
Awesome, knowledgeable guide, avoid crowded tours
lorirS2991EX,Feb 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00First tour with Brian was so great, we did a second with him! If you are wanting to avoid huge, crowded tours, this is the way to go. He even searched for and found turtles on the way back bc they were on my list.
Incredible Snorkeling Experience at Kealakekua Bay!
Keri v,Jan 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our snorkeling trip to Kealakekua Bay was absolutely unforgettable! The adventure started off perfectly as we spotted humpback whales during the boat ride to the bay—such a breathtaking sight! Once in the bay, we were greeted by a pod of playful spinner dolphins, which made the experience even more magical. The highlight of the trip was Captain Brian, who was not only knowledgeable but also a fantastic storyteller. He shared an amazing recount of the history of the bay, making the excursion both educational and entertaining. You could tell he’s passionate about this beautiful place. It’s an experience we’ll cherish forever and can’t recommend enough. If you’re in Hawaii, Kealakekua Bay is an absolute must!
Beautiful spot, plenty of...
Tricia S,Dec 31, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Beautiful spot, plenty of time to explore, knowledgeable and friendly guides - perfect for the entire family
Amazing experience - outstanding guides - whales, dolphins, and snorkeling!
Amy L,Dec 24, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I wasn’t sure what to expect when we arrived this morning, but our guide Christa and our captain, Brian, were AMAZING. I thoroughly enjoyed the boat ride to the snorkeling spot in spite of some spicy waves. The snorkeling was really good, but mostly because of Christa talking about the fish we were seeing. The snacks after our swim were just right, and we were able to see a pod of spinner dolphins, well, spinning. Then, we got a very cool history of some local landmarks and a humpback whale!!! Do this. You won’t regret it!
Fun, adventurous
Angel A,Oct 23, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Had a great time with my friends here. We saw a ton of fish and learned about the history of the big island, the natives and captain cook. He offered tons of snacks and drinks along the way too. Definitely would recommend if you’re looking for a lowkey setting with family or friends.
Worth it - a great option for day snorkeling tour
Amir D,Oct 23, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00This particular tour is a great option for a captain cook day time snorkeling tour. Went with my friends, guide was super chill and knowledgeable about the area. Made sure everyone had what they needed, and showed us some interesting locations after the snorkeling.
Related Experiences
Operated by Hawaii Marine Life Charters