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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Kailua-Kona…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Whale Watching
    5. /Kailua-Kona Whale Watching Cruise
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    Kailua-Kona Whale Watching Cruise

    Ride a fast, open-viewing inflatable along the Kona coast with an experienced ocean crew

    4.9 stars• 453 reviews

    Duration

    2-2.5 Hours

    Includes

    Expert crew, whale watching

    Highlights

    Ride Apollo, a 41-foot rigid-hull inflatable built for offshore adventure along the Kona coast. Triple outboard motors make the vessel quick and nimble, helping maximize time on the water.

    Take in the coast from Apollo's open viewing platform and forward-facing saddle seats, with each rider in their own space. Your experienced crew shares its knowledge of the Big Island and its marine life as you explore offshore waters.

    • Ride aboard a 41-foot rigid-hull inflatable built for offshore adventure
    • Take in expansive views from the open viewing platform
    • Travel in forward-facing saddle seats with individual space
    • Learn from an experienced crew familiar with Big Island waters

    Itinerary

    • Boarding begins 20 minutes prior to departure
    • Leave Honokohau Harbor at scheduled departure time
    • Search for as many whales and as much wildlife as possible
      • Possible Whale Types: Humpback whales are the main focus, but we also can see beaked whales, false killer whales, melon-headed whales, pilot whales, sperm whales, and more.
    • Return to Honokohau Harbor

    Important details

    • Arrive 20 minutes before departure for boarding and a pre-trip orientation
    • Ages 8+ only
    • Weight limit: 275 lbs per passenger
    • Requires an unassisted transfer from the dock to the vessel
    • Not suitable for pregnancy or neck or back issues
    • Saddle-style seating is used; traditional seating is not available
    • Only small wearable bags are permitted onboard and must be worn during the tour

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for groups of up to 10, or 48 hours in advance for groups of 10 or more. Cancellations within these time frames may be charged up to 100% of the fare. A 6% cancellation fee per person applies. Rescheduling to another date is free.

    Product ID: TWZHXQ

    FAQs

    The Adventure Whale Watch requires at least 10 passengers 24 hours before departure to run. This minimum does not apply to private charters.

    Tours may be canceled for inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances. If this happens, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

    Bring your preferred sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, or sun shirt. Apply sunscreen before arriving at the marina or before boarding; spray-on sunscreen is not permitted onboard.

    Meeting details

    South Central Side of Honokohau Harbor

    Experience provided by Hawaiian Adventures

    Related locations

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    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

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    Adult

    $114.57

    Ages 18+

    Child

    $114.57

    Ages 8-17

    Private Charter | Apollo

    $2,275.20

    Up to 27 people

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    453 reviews•Google Maps
    429
    2
    6
    8
    4

    Crew members like Amy, Olivia, Dennis, and Andrew come up repeatedly in these reviews, and it's clear they're a big reason people leave so happy. Guests consistently highlight how knowledgeable and passionate the naturalists are, with multiple biologists often on board to share insights about marine mammals. The boat, the Artemis, is described as spacious, clean, and well-maintained, which adds to the overall comfort of the experience. Wildlife sightings here tend to be genuinely impressive. Humpback whales are the main draw, but reviewers frequently mention surprise encounters with multiple dolphin species, monk seals, sharks, and pilot whales. The crew's willingness to extend the trip when something special is happening shows they prioritize the experience over the clock. One thing worth knowing: peak season runs roughly January through March, and a few guests who went later in April found whale activity winding down. That said, the crew worked hard even in off-peak weeks and still delivered memorable sightings.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    Incredible from start to finish! Andrew, Olivia, and Falkor were the best crew! Falkor was such a fun addition to the trip! We saw pilot whales, a shark, and many spinner dolphins. It was such a special trip and we were delighted. The boat is very nice and extremely clean and comfortable!

    Photo of Amanda Heller

    Amanda Heller

    June 19, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Incredible from start to finish! Andrew, Olivia, and Falkor were the best crew! Falkor was such a fun addition to the trip! We saw pilot whales, a shark, and many spinner dolphins. It was such a special trip and we were delighted. The boat is very nice and extremely clean and comfortable!

    Photo of Amanda Heller

    Amanda Heller

    June 19, 2026

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