** Temporarily Closed Until Further Notice
Sunlight on Water operates from Honokohau Harbor Marina and offers tours to see dolphins, whales, and manta rays. The creative energy and leadership behind Sunlight on Water are Michael and Melainah, and one could say that dolphins have approved their marriage and business. Let us explain. During their beach wedding, a pod of dolphins leaped and swam during the ceremony. Call this fate or luck, but we believe it was a sign of good things to come for this couple and their company.
Michael and Melainah are both USCG licensed captains, and Michael has over 25-years of experience captaining, diving, and surfing the Kona Coast. Although dolphin swims are banned, Michael was the first to offer such experiences. Melainah’s passion and knowledge of dolphins go hand-in-hand with Michael’s expertise. Because of their reputation for working around dolphins, they’ve appeared in several dolphin documentaries. All this to say that Sunlight on Water is one of the most experienced charters on the Big Island and is well respected. Let’s take a closer look at their boat and tours.
The 40-foot boat is aptly named “Uhane Nui O Naia,” which in Hawaiian means “Great Spirit of the Dolphin.” The USCG certified vessel has the following amenities:
- Restroom and warm shower
- Custom built for snorkeling
- Padded seating
- 25 passenger maximum
- Hydrophone for listening to whales
- Canopy for shaded area
Sunlight on Water offers seven tours:
Kealakekua Bay Snorkel/Captain Cook Tour
Whale Watch and Reef Snorkel in Kona
It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere Whale Watching Tours in Kona.
With so many options to choose from, we’re sure there’s one that’s perfect for you and your entourage. For time and space, we’ll explore two of their popular tours.
Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure
- Most popular
- 3 hours
- Available for all ages
- 4:45 PM departure
- Free group picture and a short video of your tour
Picture yourself floating on the ocean with snorkeling gear beside the “Uhane Nui O Naia.” Lights from the hull illuminate the depths as if it were daytime. Plankton is everywhere, drawn to the light like moths to a flame. Soon, manta rays, called the “butterflies of the sea,” swoop in to feed on the plankton. You watch them summersault and do barrel rolls as they feast. Truly, this is an experience of a lifetime!
You leave the harbor at sunset and enjoy a 20-30 minute ride while enjoying the provided snacks and beverages. Once at the snorkeling location, Sunlight on Water provide wetsuits and snorkeling gear. Your crew, who are lifeguard/CPR certified, instruct you on what to expect and become your in-water guides. After your tour, you’ll enjoy a warm shower and hot beverages. Be sure to pack a towel and a light jacket or sweatshirt.
Deep Ocean Safari in Kailua Kona
- Experienced swimmers only
- 4 hours
- 7:30 AM departure
- Free group picture and a short video of your tour
If you like adventure, this is the tour for you! You’ll depart from Honokohau Harbor and head out into the deep blue waters of the Pacific. While you relax, the captain and crew will be on the lookout for ocean wildlife like dolphins, whale sharks, turtles, and other incredible species.
Sunshine on Water will provide snorkeling gear, flotation devices, and plenty of snacks and beverages. Inexperienced swimmers and children aren’t allowed on this tour because of snorkeling in deep water and the chance of seeing sharks. We believe Sunshine of Water is worth your time and money. They offer eco-friendly tours, have over 25-years of experience, and have an impeccable safety and service record.
Insider Tip:
Despite the dolphins blessing their wedding, Sunlight on Water cannot guarantee to spot ocean life. While they encounter marine life about 85-90% of the time, they can’t offer refunds if nothing is spotted. But they’ll do their best to get you on another tour.