When you want to hit the water in style, sign up to explore the ocean wonders with Hang Loose Boat Tours. All their adventures start in Kailua-Kona, and then take you on a whirlwind trip to Kealakekua Bay and beyond. All along the way, you’ll ride in their powerful catamaran, which is piloted by experienced US Coast Guard captains. Then, you’ll get to get down into the water and snorkel around to see all the sights up close and personal.
To enjoy that incredible experience, you must book your spot well ahead of time. Their tours fill up fast, after all, especially during the tourist season. Thankfully, you can reserve your spot months in advance by simply using the online scheduling system on their website. You may want to take time to read through their two tour options, so you can decide if you want to snorkel in the Kealakekua Bay or go see manta rays. Prefer to go on a private charter? They can make that happen as well.
Once you pick your trip and sign up, you just have to get ready for an amazing time out on the water. Be sure to wear light layers with your swimwear underneath. Other things to bring include a towel, sunhat, and sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection. A long sleeve jacket is wise, too, because it can get quite chilly on the water. Beyond all that, put on reef-safe SPF 50+ sunblock before arriving on the scheduled date and time.
You’ll need to arrive at the Honokohau Harbor at least 30 minutes prior to your tour to get checked in. Your captain will meet you by the pavilion by the harbor restrooms once you arrive onsite. Then, you’ll go over what to expect on the trip before boarding the boat. From that point forward, you can just kick back and relax while enjoying the beautiful sights all around. Your captain will expertly pilot the boat to your destination while pointing out tons of interesting sights.
Upon arriving at the snorkel site, you’ll get to put on a lifejacket plus get your snorkel gear all set up. Then, it’s time to hit the water and see what you can find lurking beneath the waves. Depending on where you snorkel, you could see everything from manta rays and sea turtles to tropical fish and eels. After you’re all tuckered out, you’ll return to the boat for lunch or at least a light snack. Juice and water are available for your enjoyment, too.
Their adventures include:
Kealakekua Bay Snorkel
On the four-hour Kealakekua Bay Snorkel tour, you’ll head out to the reef near the iconic Captain Cook monument. Once you get there, you’ll snorkel around the area while learning all about the marine life that call the reef home.
Manta Ray Snorkel
A true bucket list item, the Manta Ray Snorkel lets you see these 1,000-pound creatures gracefully flitting through the water. You’ll come out during the evening hours, so you can see them feed on plankton.
Whale Watching Tours
Only available during the winter months, Whale Watching Tours takes you on a whirlwind trip through all the best whale-watching spots. You’ll get to hear them sing through the underwater hydrophone. And you might even get to see them slap their fins against the water’s surface and leap into the air.
If you want to only go out on the trip with your family and friends, book a private tour. Their trips are the perfect way to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, and many other special occasions. Upon signing up, their crew will help you design your perfect trip, and then take your group out on the water to have a blast.
Insider Tips:
-If you’d like to rent a GoPro for your tour, call them after booking your spot to reserve a camera rental.
-Likely to get seasick? Use an over-the-counter motion sickness remedy before arriving at the harbor.
-If you’re usually cold while swimming in the ocean, consider renting a wetsuit before coming by. They have a thin suit available if you want, but it doesn’t offer a lot of insulation.