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

    Hear humpback songs by hydrophone from an open-bow raft in winter nursery waters

    4.9 stars• 562 reviews

    Duration

    2 hours

    Ideal For

    Up to 20 people

    Includes

    Snacks, beverages, hydrophone

    Highlights

    Explore the waters off Kawaihae aboard Malaialena, a high-performance open-bow raft built for close-to-the-water viewing. Learn about humpback whale behavior from the captain and crew as you respectfully search the winter nursery grounds.

    • Listen to live humpback songs through an onboard hydrophone
    • Learn about mothers, calves, breaches, and competition pods from the crew
    • Ride in an open-bow raft for unobstructed ocean views
    • Explore winter nursery grounds off the Big Island

    What's Included

    • Complimentary snacks and beverages
    • Onboard hydrophone
    • Whale behavior interpretation from the captain and crew

    Important details

    • Arrive 30 minutes before departure for check-in
    • Ages 3+ for shared tours; private-charter exceptions apply
    • No neck or back injuries
    • Pregnancy must be no further than the second trimester
    • Requires climbing a short ladder to re-enter the vessel
    • Remove shoes before boarding; medical exceptions may apply
    • Tours operate rain or shine

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel or make changes at least 48 hours before departure. Changes made less than 48 hours before departure are not eligible for a refund or reschedule.

    Product ID: EK48HQ

    FAQs

    For tours taken January 1 through March 1, no humpback whale sighting makes you eligible for one standby return trip within one year. Standby space is first-come, first-served and subject to availability.

    This whale watch requires at least 6 passengers to operate. If the minimum is not met 24 hours before departure, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled.

    Dress for the beach and possible ocean spray. Bring a towel, light jacket or windbreaker, sunglasses, hat, and a camera if you like. Use sunscreen without oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, or octocrylene.

    Meeting details

    Kawaihae South Boat Ramp

    Experience provided by Adventure X Boat Tours

    How can we help?

    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

    Report an issue

    Adult

    $142.03

    Ages 13+

    0

    Child

    $108.21

    Ages 3 to 12

    0

    UPSCALE Private Charter

    $2,818

    2 Hour Minimum • Choose trip duration below

    0

    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
    562 reviews•Google Maps
    511
    4
    2
    2
    3

    Adventure X has built a devoted following over the years, with guests praising the exceptional crew led by Captain Loraine and team members including Riley, Spencer, Sage, Leah, and Max. The manta ray night snorkel stands out as their signature experience, and reviewers consistently describe it as magical and unforgettable. One guest has returned 14 times over 16 years, which speaks volumes about the quality and consistency. The crew's knowledge about individual mantas and their genuine care for guest comfort really shines through in the feedback. What sets this operator apart is how safe and well-cared-for guests feel throughout the experience. The team provides thorough explanations about marine life and conservation practices, helps adjust equipment in the water, and goes the extra mile to ensure everyone's comfortable. Several reviewers mention the all-female crew and appreciate the professional yet warm approach. They also offer daytime dolphin and snorkeling tours that receive equally enthusiastic praise. Tours require a minimum of six guests to run, so last-minute bookings might need rescheduling, though the crew communicates proactively about any changes.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Great trip! Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. They provided snacks and hot cocoa afterwards. The manta rays were amazing. Definitely recommend!

    Photo of Aurora Potts

    Aurora Potts

    August 8, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Great trip! Staff was very knowledgeable and friendly. They provided snacks and hot cocoa afterwards. The manta rays were amazing. Definitely recommend!

    Photo of Aurora Potts

    Aurora Potts

    August 8, 2026

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