Sail aboard a premium catamaran to Kealakekua Bay — the Big Island's crown-jewel snorkel site, accessible only by boat or a grueling trail — for two hours above a living coral reef in Hawaii's clearest water. A UNESCO-recognized marine sanctuary of extraordinary biodiversity.
What to expect
Departing Keauhou Bay, the sail south rewards guests with panoramic Hualālai views and near-certain spinner dolphin pods surfing the bow wake. At Kealakekua, the water is a cathedral-clear 80°F and visibility often exceeds 100 ft. Reef fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and the occasional white-tip reef shark are routine sightings. The captain anchors near the Captain Cook monument — a striking historical footnote — before the BBQ lunch on deck for the return sail.
Good to know
Departs Keauhou Bay, ~15 min south of Kailua Pier by taxi or rideshare. Morning sail departs 9 am, returns by 1:30 pm — ideal timing for afternoon all-aboard. Book the morning departure (not afternoon) for the calmest seas and best light. Pre-book at least 2 weeks ahead; this is Kona's most popular catamaran experience.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Kailua-Kona — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Kailua-Kona
- Manta Ray Night Snorkel: Kona's Iconic After-Dark Encounter
- Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park: Private Expert-Guided Day Tour
- Kohala Coast Helicopter Tour: Waterfalls, Valleys & Volcanic Craters
- Kona Coffee Farm Estate Tour & Premium Tasting Experience
- Kaloko-Honokōhau & Hulihē'e Palace: Ancient Hawaii in One Morning