Offering the highest level of service on the islands, aboard their 38 ft. cruiser Hoke Elima is the Alli Ocean Tours company featuring a wide variety of customized and specialty tours meeting even the highest of expectations. Alii Ocean Tours is certified to carry 35 passengers but prefers to limit the number of guests to 22 in order to maximize space and increase the quality of experience for everyone on board. Consequently, you will not obtain a more relaxing and fun snorkel or touring experience from any other Big Island company.
As mentioned already, there are many excursions as well as private charters to choose from when booking with Alii Ocean Tours. One of the most popular options is the Kealakekua Bay Reef Snorkel tour. This excursion departs from Honokohau Harbor aboard the 38-foot Thresher, a perfect combination of speed and comfort then heads south to the beautiful, world-renowned Kealakekua Bay. After arriving on-site, guests can relax knowing that everything is provided for them to experience the amazing tropical reef dwellers swimming below. It’s not uncommon to spy Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins as well as an added bonus!
Even if you are new to snorkeling, you can book an Alii Ocean Tours snorkeling trip knowing that you are in good hands. The guides on board will teach you everything you need to know about snorkeling safety and proper technique. They will also educate you on all the types of fish you will be seeing. Light refreshments and snacks will be served on board before heading back to the harbor at the end of the experience.
Another tour option is the K-Bay Reef Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter. This tour also leaves Honokohau Harbor and takes guests to Kealakekua Bay. The captain and crew of this dolphin excursion have over 20 years of combined experience, which means they are well versed in the typical behavior of marine life and are happy to answer any questions guests might have. After leaving the coastline, the crew will use an underwater hydrophone that is dropped into the ocean to pick up sounds and sonar. Once reaching the snorkeling destination, the crew will ensure that you are ready for a fun snorkeling experience and even point out the famous Captain James Cook monument.
Alii Ocean Tours believes in preparing well for all snorkeling adventures ensuring a good time is had by all guests. Consequently, they provide sunscreen, beverages, snorkel gear, towels, RX masks upon request, flotation devices, a light breakfast and lunch for AM trips, and snacks for all afternoon trips. This creates a truly five-star experience that is simply second to none. This company even meets specific dietary requirements of guests who have restrictions on what they can eat. They happily provide gluten-free, vegan, kosher, and paleo dietary options.
Another type of tour to enjoy with Alii Ocean Tours is the Whale Watching Tour, allowing guests to see Hawaii’s beloved gentle giants in action. Every single year, more than 20,000 Humpback Whales make their way to Hawaii for their breeding season. This tour aboard the Hoku Elim also departs from Honokohau Harbor and goes in search of these majestic creatures. Alii captains are in contact with other vessels to help spot these gentle giants. Onboard, guests are served light snacks and refreshments while they watch the whales swim nearby. As an added bonus and a favorite part for many guests, the hydrophone system is utilized to allow guests to listen to the amazing whale song.
Other tour options include the Daytime Manta Encounter, which allows for daytime manta viewing in luxury, and the Big Five Ocean Safari, which attempts to locate the Kona Big Five of sharks, manta, turtles, and tropical reef fish.
Insider Tips:
-Guests are encouraged to bring along waterproof cameras for snorkeling trips.
-There is a full refund option for cancellations made more than 24 hours prior to departure.