Top 5 Snorkel Tours to Captain Cook Monument, Big Island

Dreaming of swimming with some colorful fish and maybe spotting a turtle or two in crystal-clear water? Well, then, a snorkel trip out to the Captain Cook Monument over at Kealakekua Bay could be just what you’re looking for. It’s really, really famous as one of the top spots around the Big Island for checking out what’s going on underneath the waves. Let’s take a look at a few of the best choices for getting out there and seeing all that it has to offer.

Why Captain Cook Monument is a Snorkeling Paradise

So, what is it that makes Kealakekua Bay such a hotspot for snorkelers? Quite a few things, actually! The water, for example, is usually super clear, so too the visibility is usually just awesome. Captain Cook Monument is positioned in a marine reserve, and this means all kinds of sea creatures feel right at home there, like your very own underwater parade of colors and activity.

It’s kinda protected from waves and currents, and that, generally, makes it easier for folks of all skill levels to jump in and take a peek. And, of course, there’s a historical side of it all: the monument stands for Captain James Cook’s initial stop in Hawaii back in 1779, which certainly gives the place an extra layer of interest.

Choosing the very Best Snorkel Tour for You

With several different tour companies providing trips, it’s possibly hard to pick what is best for you. First up, have a think of what matters the most to you: you know, are you all about getting to the snorkeling spot super quick? Or are you quite happy chilling on a boat with food and drinks included? Maybe, just maybe, you are dead keen on a smaller, more private tour?

Don’t forget to check out reviews, especially what folks say about how good the crew is, plus the shape the gear is in. Very, very important to make sure the tour you like the sound of is respectful when it comes to the marine life – you know, keeping a distance, not feeding the fish, things like that.

Boat Size: A bigger boat might mean a steadier, plus a comfier, ride, especially if the sea gets a tiny bit choppy. However, smaller boats sometimes can sneak into those out-of-the-way spots where crowds simply don’t exist.
Amenities: Consider if having things like lunch, drinks, sunbeds or shade is really quite something for you. Some tours are quite basic, while some really, really do go all out on the extras.
Tour Length: A super quick tour may be just what is needed if you are strapped for time, or possibly you fancy spending a large chunk of the day out on the water.

Top 5 Snorkel Tours to Captain Cook Monument

So, without further ado, let’s peek at some of the top tours going out to Captain Cook Monument right now! It’s usually a stellar adventure, even if it sounds kinda touristy; it gets you to one spectacular site in Hawaii!

1. Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides

Fair Wind has rather a big reputation, and it does seem to live up to it! They generally run both morning and afternoon tours on pretty large catamarans, meaning there is loads of space to spread out. Too it’s almost like having a party out on the water. As I was saying, the morning trip may be a bit better for calmer seas, while that afternoon one might just suit you down to the ground if you’re keen on a more laid-back vibe.

Pros: This option comes with equipment supplied, together with instruction for beginners, yummy BBQ lunch. Very family friendly too.
Cons: Being on a bigger boat, it may feel just a little less private than some of the smaller tours.

2. Sea Quest Rafting Adventures

Fancy something a bit more speedy and personal? That, it may well be, is what Sea Quest provides with its rafting adventures. Their smaller boats, like, can get you there and back fairly quick, which is kinda awesome if you aren’t the type to sit still for long! They quite often chuck in a few little extras like exploring sea caves plus hidden coastlines.

Pros: Gets to some really nifty smaller spots others miss; also, the crew are usually seriously clued up about the sea life.
Cons: It can be slightly bumpier ride compared to the bigger boats; might not be perfect should you are susceptible to seasickness.

3. Captain Zodiac Raft & Snorkel Adventures

Captain Zodiac has just been in the tour game a long time, and they have kinda perfected a mix of fun, excitement and education! Their rafts give you the opportunity to zip across to Kealakekua Bay; also, the crew often share all types of things regarding the local area, both under and above the water. It’s one way to soak up all the culture around. And it also offers the chance to pick the brains of experts about life underwater!

Pros: Experienced, informative crew; rafts go fairly fast to all locations.
Cons: Rafts may not be suitable for everybody, including those perhaps wanting a steadier type of experience.

4. Body Glove Cruises

Body Glove’s a bit like going for the total package when it comes to their snorkeling cruise. I mean, seriously, this large, comfy boat has, like, everything; it comes equipped with a full bar and a great sun deck and, too, there are things like water slides for a little bit of fun between snorkels. So, it offers lots to discover!

Pros: Comfy with lots of features, superb choice should you be traveling with a big group with different interests.
Cons: Can feel a bit busy when there is loads of people on board; and, also, they might take up some precious ocean space from others on tour.

5. Kona Snorkel Trips

Kona Snorkel Trips often focus just on smaller groups, so that really does allow you to have, like, quite a personalized experience. Their captains tend to be extremely knowledgeable with an amazing passion when it comes to everything regarding the area – you are going to definitely discover things! Seems that everybody who joins the tour will pick up useful knowledge as well as great times.

Pros: Smaller groups; great care given to both the ocean life and to looking after you.
Cons: Being smaller groups means trips can quite often book up pretty fast, therefore plan very much in advance.

Making the very Best of Your Snorkeling Trip

You have chosen a trip? Fantastic! Here are some rapid-fire points to ensure that everything goes as swimmingly (excuse the pun) as possible:

Sunscreen is important: You ought to smother on that SPF well before getting onto the boat. Plus, too, pick reef-safe to assist in protecting our sea buddies.
Stay Hydrated: Snorkeling is actually kinda workout, you know. Thus, consume water continuously to feel tip-top.
Respect for marine life: Never touch anything or chase something – permit the underwater world have its space.
Gear Fitting: Guarantee your mask and fins fits very well; prevent discomfort in the sea!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I require being skilled to snorkel?

Nah, not at all! The huge majority of tours cater to all experience ranges, right from newbies through to pros. Almost, virtually, all give some instructions too for total first-timers, which is quite brilliant!

What must I take on the trip?

Generally bring towel, swimming gear plus sunscreen. Maybe you wanna take camera to use underwater for those unbelievable fishy pics. Almost like getting a peek below!

Is it possible to go snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay without joining a tour?

Sure is! It’s likely that you can kayak around or possibly even hike, but then the tour is the easiest to get to to the actual monument spot straight away! Getting help to the key location is quite a plus.

Are tours always certain to go ahead?

Almost certainly not. Occasionally the weather misbehaves, therefore it is very smart to confirm cancellation rules just before committing.