Captain Cook Catamaran Snorkel Day Trip with Lunch Kona

Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is a sheltered, deep bay on the Kona coast and one of the most beautiful stops on the Big Island. The cliffs behind it, called Pali Kapu o Keoua, rise steeply from the water, and the surface is usually very calm in the morning. It is also a marine life conservation area, which is why the water is clear and the fish are plentiful.

The bay is only about 20 kilometres south of Kailua-Kona by road, but the road down to the shore is steep, and a boat is the easiest way to reach it. A Kealakekua Bay boat tour gives you the view from the water, with time to swim and snorkel before the return cruise.

The Captain Cook Monument

The white obelisk at the water's edge marks the place where Captain James Cook was killed in 1779, during his visit to Hawaii. It stands on the shore of the bay, and you see it from the boat, with the guide telling the story of Cook's arrival and the Hawaiians who lived here. The monument is on the shoreline, so the best views come from the water.

Many travellers search for how to get to the Captain Cook Monument, since it is hard to reach by land. This catamaran trip answers that question in a comfortable way: you cruise from the harbour, stop at the bay, take photos and learn the history without a hike. Bring a camera, as the light is best in the morning.

Snorkelling the Captain Cook Reef

The reef near the monument is one of the best snorkelling spots on the island. Beneath the surface you can find coral, boxfish, parrotfish, triggerfish and, with luck, a Hawaiian green sea turtle. The snorkel mask, fins and life jacket are included in the snorkel option, so you do not need to bring your own.

If you are asking where to snorkel on the Big Island, this reef is a strong answer, because the water is protected and clear. The snorkel option includes swimming time, while the boat-only option keeps you on deck with lunch and the views. Choose the option you prefer when you book. Wear sunscreen that is kind to reefs and bring a towel.

The Kona Coast by Catamaran

The cruise follows the lava coast between Kailua-Kona and Kealakekua Bay, with black rock, green hillsides and the slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai behind. The catamaran has a bathroom, shade and room to move around, and your guide shares stories about the coast along the way. In winter you may also spot humpback whales offshore.

The Kona side of the island is sheltered from the trade winds, so the sea is usually calm, especially in the morning. The best time to visit is summer, when the water is smoothest, though the trip runs year-round. Winter swells can affect conditions on some days, and the crew decides on the day. Lunch of sandwiches and fruit is served on board.