Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
It is finally that time of year where the beautiful humpback whales make their return to the Hawaiian islands after migrating from Alaska! Step aboard the Kibou and explore the incredible Kailua-Kona coast while searching for our seasonal humpback whales! Learn about the majestic creatures and the local area with our experienced and knowledgeable crew! Bring your own beverages, sit back, and enjoy the view with Iruka Hawaii Dolphin!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Whales are wild animals, so the sighting is not guaranteed. In case of no whale, we will put you on a next available tour as a rain check for free of charge.
What To Expect
Travel along the beautiful Kona coast and search for our seasonal humpback whales as they have made their annual return after migrating from Alaska. Explore beautiful blue waters and see mountainous views on the best whale watching boat tour in Kona!
Options
Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii
What‘s Included
Bottled water
Snacks
Bathroom onboard
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
183 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Don’t miss this :)
Patricia S,May 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Incredible!!!! We saw lots of whales …. Beautiful …. Knowledgeable guides and so well worth the time
Calm waters, great hosts
Steve K,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Two spots to snorkel, plenty of fish. Top tip, take your time, enjoy the water, the fish come to see you and there is more life if only you relax and look.
Fun
Cheryl B,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Be patient and keep your eyes peeled. Also, Dramamine. The crew was lovely; we felt safe and well-informed : )
Friendly & Helpful Crew. Great Value
Ted H,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This review is for the afternoon whale watching tour operated by Iruka. Pre-Trip communication was excellent. They informed me in plenty of time when our original trip had to be canceled due ro weather and were able to accommodate us on the following day. The crew of the Kibou were outstanding with Tamae at the bow spotting for cetaceans and distributing snacks and beverages. Diego was a font of interesting information on humpback behavior as well as dolphins (we saw both spinning and bottle-nose). We spotted several whales and dozens of dolphins. We even saw a monk seal up close. Captain Trevor plotted a speedy yet safe course. All had excellent knowledge of where to most likely spot the animals. Only negatives: onboard bathroom was out of order and fresh pineapple was not provided as listed in the itinerary. Boat had ample and comfy seating. I would highly recommend this trip and operator to friends and family.
Hawaii 26
John S,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I would highly recommend this company for any of your whale watching and manta tours, employees are great and do everything possible to make this an enjoyable experience
Whale watching experience
Sally D,Mar 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Patience. You won't see whales right away. The crew is awesome and informative. I highly recommend raising company
Special Hawaii moment midst the biggest storm
annaaH2830RK,Mar 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Trevor, Diego and Tamae were super fun and great with sharing their knowledge about the dolphins and whales (as well as spotting them of course). At the end of the tour we saw monk seals, which was such a special and rare moment! The spinner dolphins were so fun to watch too showcasing their skills to us 🌊
First whale trip⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Stephanie D,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is our first time at whale watching. Captain Trevor and Diego were an amazing crew. They were just as excited and engaged as all of us to see the whales. They made sure we didn’t just see whales, but we watched them. I had an amazing experience. 11/10
Yes! Take this tour.
dawntW8940SO,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing time on our whale watching trip with Trevor,Diego, and Tamae as our captain, guides, and photographer. We were fortunate to see a couple calves who were playful and spent a lot of time at the surface. One of them even breached for us as we prepared to head back. This is exactly the experience I came to Hawaii to have ❤️
Unlawful Busiess Practice
Michael B,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00When we arrived for the prepaid tour, we were told that we were required to sign a release of liability. When I read the waiver, it included release of liability for negligence. I then informed the tour employee that I would not agree to release of liability for negligence and asked for a refund. The employee told us that we could not receive a refund the day of the scheduled tour. I then gave notice that this was a violation of U.C.C. (Merchant Law) and requested the business owners phone number, which I called and left a message, but have not received a call back yet.
Related Experiences
Operated by Iruka Hawaii Dolphin