We did a Captain Cook snorkeling tour with Sea Quest Hawaii today and were very impressed. Erin,…read morethe phone representative, was friendly, patient, and answered all my questions, which made me choose this company. Captain Natalie and Assistant Anna were fantastic, knowledgeable, funny, and very attentive throughout the trip. Captain Natalie shared interesting stories about Captain Cook and the surrounding lava caves, and she even helped me with my snorkeling gear and inflating the vest. The snorkeling spot near Captain Cook Monument was incredible, and we saw so many fish. They also provided fresh fruit, chips, cookies, and soft drinks. Thanks to Captain Natalie and Anna, all six of us had a great time and would highly recommend this company.

Hands down one of the coolest things I've ever done. We popped over to the Big Island with cousins…read morefor Spring Break and didn't book until a couple days out because of weather. Thankfully, they had space for our entire group for the sunset time (615pm check-in) and we didn't have to wait for the late-late slots. Online booking was easy-peasy (no kama'aina discount, unfortunately). We checked in (parking is street parking and there are several boats leaving from the same area, so it can be a bit of a challenge) pretty easily - there were folks out front directing us where to go for Sea Quest. I decided the $35 for the GoPro rental was a steal compared to trusting my waterproof phone pouch and I have no regrets - you can leave the camera running the whole time and they give you the SD card at the end. It was no trouble to do that once we got there, as I didn't add that when booking. They have a decent gift shop and the keiki in our party bought themselves some stuffed souvenirs. We got fitted for shorty wet suits and prescription masks if needed, and then waited for them to split us into boats and groups. We were accompanied in the water by Wylen (sorry if I butchered the spelling) and Abram, and they had the perfect blend of aloha, humor, and information. Super chill, but you also knew they meant business about Rule Number 1. From there, we boarded the boat, a small zodiac-style craft, for the 5 minute journey to Manta Village. The website made it seem like we could leave things on board, but that really wasn't the case. We left all bags, clothing, towels in a secure room on shore, slippers got collected on the pier, and small things like eyeglasses were stored in a bin on the boat. No trouble, but I wouldn't plan to take anything with you on the boat. Getting into the water was easy, and we had one keiki who was a little apprehensive about everything - they took great care to lower him into the water, and when he wanted to go back to the boat a little early, they accompanied him back to the ladder no problem. There were plenty staff around to help and also identify the mantas by their markings. And there were SO MANY mantas! We had an amazing evening watching them - I lost count and forgot many names, there were so many swimming past. We had 30-40 minutes in the water and we had multiple mantas around us the whole time. I thought the time was plenty - by the time we had about 5 minutes to go, my stomach was ready to be back on land. My only regret is not stretching my triceps beforehand - I was not expecting my arms to be so sore after holding onto the bar around the light board! We paid $135ish plus fees per person (all ages) and it was the highlight of the trip, for sure.

Aloha, Night snorkeling with the Manta Rays, through Dolphin…read moreDiscoveries, was the most AMAZING experience ever! From check-in to the boat crew all personnel were kind, caring, and very knowledgeable and informative about equipment fittings and marine life. I would love to give a shout out to the June 22, 2026 7:00 tour boat crew (Jack, Brayden, the captain, ship mate, and other diver. Sorry couldn't remember all crew members names). They all did a wonderful job of explaining exactly what was to be expected while snorkeling, and how to stay calm while the manta rays get up close and personal. Jack and Brayden did an excellent job of explaining the life of manta rays and how to identify each one while we were in the water. A big thank you to Brayden for be encouraging and keeping me calm while in the water. He knew I was a good swimmer, but am very nervous in deep water. Brayden was very good at informing us when a ray was getting close and to just stay still and calm if one were to get too close to our bodies. He did a wonderful job with keeping us safe, informed with marine life, and gave clear directions as to what we needed to do to get in the water, while we were in the water, and with how to get out of the water back onto the boat. Mahalo (Thank you) Dolphin Discoveries Crew for a wonderful night snorkel with the manta rays! I would highly recommend this excursion to anyone that is visiting the island of Hawaii!! It is a once and a life time experience and well worth the money you pay to go on the excursion.

Our manta ray experience with Dolphin Discoveries at 8:30 on 7/25/26 was outstanding from start to…read morefinish! From the moment we arrived, the team was welcoming, organized, and enthusiastic. Directions were clear, parking was busy but easy (out of anyone's control), and Brayden greeted everyone immediately upon his return from the previous trip. He was confident, professional, and kept the entire group informed, organized, and comfortable throughout the experience. Once aboard, the captain and his female crew member, Brayden and Carlo made sure everyone was safely seated, equipped, and ready to go. The captain operated the boat with confidence and precision, making us feel safe the entire time. I'm someone who gets sea sick very easily, but the trip and a quick 3 min ride out. He positioned the boat quickly and we were in the water within a couple of minutes. In the water Brayden and Carlo constantly communicated, positioning the float so we could focus entirely on the manta rays instead of worrying about other groups or drifting. Brayden was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing facts about the mantas, calling out their names and pointing them out as they approached, and making sure everyone had the best possible view. We never had to think about anything except enjoying the experience with our family. Getting back on the boat and returning to the dock was just as seamless. Within moments of tying up, our shoes were lined up waiting for us, and we were on our way. This is a first-class operation with an exceptional crew. We couldn't recommend Dolphin Discoveries more highly and will absolutely book with them again the next time we're on the Big Island!

Incredible experience!…read more We almost had our snorkeling reservation cancelled due to lack of people, but luckily we were able to get on the Small Group Snorkel & Dolphin Charter which was a much more intimate experience with fewer people and longer snorkel time. Our guides, Seth and Lacey, were the most welcoming and informative staff we were blessed to get. The weather was perfect, the sea life was super active, and they provided us snacks and refreshments for everyone. We got to see some beautiful landscapes, incredible sea life, all while enjoying the beautiful day! When we go back to the big island, we will definitely be booking with Captain Cook for another snorkeling adventure!

We went on the Deluxe Captain Cook Tour in September 2025 and had a great time! Captain Jeff was…read morevery charismatic and accommodating, and he did a fine job taking us to and from Captain Cook Monument on the boat. He even pulled over on the way back so we could watch a pod of dolphins. His colleague Ryan was extremely helpful, caring, and knowledgeable. My only feedback is that he should raise his voice and project more so that everyone aboard can hear the great information he has to offer! The cruise was about an hour each way, and then we spent another hour in the water snorkeling. It was my first time doing so, and I felt very safe and comfortable the whole time! There are tons of colorful tropical fish to observe in the warm, clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. Good choice if you want to try snorkeling!

Amazing time. Crew was very expressive on the trip and was very professional. Showed us dolphins…read morewhen they didn't have to. Made sure everyone on the trip enjoyed and experienced something wonderful. Offered insight on anything, let us enjoy the water before showing us the manta rays. 10/10 experience and highly recommend!

We had a wonderful time with Tyler and Captain Alan. Really nice, down to earth people. We got…read moretwo swims at lovely coves and a spin To Kona. Highly recommended. A memorable day.

We went out twice with Kona Style and had fantastic experiences both times…read more The morning sail and snorkel was beautiful and relaxing -- we saw lovely views of the coast, lots of fish (including flying fish as we sailed to the bay), urchins, and even some dolphins. While we didn't partake in the breakfast fruit or mini muffins on board, the pre-departure coffee was welcome and yummy. On the return, we greatly appreciated and enjoyed our boxed lunches (the salad was particularly great!). We had the option for complimentary light drinks or to purchase cocktails but just drank our water. Then we did the really late night manta snorkel, which was intense but truly awesome -- the mantas came within inches of our faces repeatedly, and we were often surrounded by a school of decently sized fish. Because everyone in the group is lined up along the same lighted board, you're very close to your neighbors, but the sea life is so majestic that you barely notice anything above the water. Cocktails available for purchase on the way there, and complimentary hot cocoa on the way back. We had the same competent and professional, yet friendly, crew for both outings. They prioritized both safety and comfort. We had plenty of time in the water. Boat was clean and well-stocked (including the bathroom and when my daughter needed a band-aid). They played fun music. Masks fit us well and didn't fog up. Other provided gear included noodles to make floating easier, reef safe sunscreen for the day snorkel, and wetsuit tops for the night snorkel. Highly recommend, would love to do again.

We just did the sunset manta ray snorkel and the whole family had a great time and experience. The…read morewhole crew was fantastic! If you're looking for a company to do this snorkel with...these are your guys/gals!

The night Manta Ray Snorkeling was one of the favorite things we did in Hawaii! We had a great…read moreexperience with Hang Loose Tours. Thanks guys! We would do it again!

Ula and Jordan were great and so welcoming! Would recommend this experience to anyone!read more

I had a blast on this daytime snorkeling tour. I got to climb aboard the RIB navy seal type boat,…read moreit felt like an adventure. The guides took the tour out to the Captain Cook Monument, where the snorkeling was cool. The water was clear, the marine life plenty, and it ended up being one of the best snorkeling spots I've experienced. One tip: be sure to rent the flippers when you sign up. They made a huge difference and helped a lot in the water. They are not provided from the all in tour price. For the tour price you get the ride and snorkel mask with a floaty. They also rent life jackets if you need that. This tour is definitely geared toward people who are comfortable swimming and being on an open-air boat. If you're nervous in the water or can't swim or prefer a more relaxed boat ride, this isn't it. If you're looking for excitement, it's hard to beat. What really made the experience special were the crew members. Our captain and lifeguard were laid-back, friendly, and made everyone feel safe while keeping the atmosphere fun. The highlight for me was racing along the coastline at nearly 50 knots, bouncing across the waves and taking in incredible views of the island. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

Think twice before booking with this company…read more I chose this excursion because it was shorter (2.5 hours) while still including snorkeling and a tour of the Captain Cook area. Unfortunately, the experience did not meet expectations. The first issue was the check-in process. The confirmation email tells guests where to meet but does not provide clear instructions on where to check in. Parking at this harbor is extremely limited, and Kona traffic can be very congested. Ironically, the company's own confirmation email emphasizes allowing a one-hour buffer before and after the tour and specifically advises guests not to schedule anything within an hour of the excursion. That warning exists for a reason. Despite everyone else arriving on time, our departure was delayed by nearly 30 minutes because the crew chose to wait for two guests who were stuck in traffic. As a result, every passenger who arrived as instructed lost approximately 30 minutes of a tour they had paid for while standing in the heat waiting. It felt unfair that those who planned accordingly were penalized because others did not. I expressed my irritation to the lifeguard assigned to our boat and was met with a dismissive response rather than an acknowledgment of the inconvenience. Once we finally departed, the captain welcomed everyone and said to let the crew know if we needed anything. During the safety briefing, I asked if my son could have some water. Instead of simply providing it or explaining when it would be available, I received a sarcastic response, and my son was not given any water. While the scenery and destination are beautiful, the customer service and handling of these situations left much to be desired. Better communication, adherence to the published schedule, and more respectful interactions with guests would have made for a much better experience.

This is a little delayed review, but what a fun time! I am…read morenot a very good swimmer so going out into the water at night made me very hesitant. Thankfully, most of the time we were just floating - holding onto the light board and having our feet held up by pool noodles. The crew made us feel very safe and kept us well informed. One of them even dove down to get a dropped go pro from one of our group members. We were in the water for about 30 min, but the manta rays came right away and a lot towards the end of our time in the water! (Of course this varies from tour to tour based on various conditions and factors) My friends and I will never forget meeting "Manteria." Other tours were out in the same area as well and everyone was considerate of each other. I can't recommend this experience enough!

Night snorkeling with majestic Manta Rays in calm Keauhou Bay was awesome ... seriously, totally,…read moreya, completely awesome! There are dozens of Hawaiian tour companies all bringing groups every evening to get in the water with the rays, but we were lucky to have the concierge at the Sheraton Kona Resort connect us with Eka Canoe Adventures for several reasons: * All groups are small around 6 people (plus 2 crew) * Because the boats are small, but stable double hull sailing canoes * The captain & mate were cool & professional * The tour is quick at just 1 hour * Cost was covered by a hotel credit and reasonable * It conveniently launches from the harbor next to the hotel A powerful light is attached to a board with handles that attracts photosynthetic plankton which in turn attracts the manta rays. A big ray will literally swim out of the dark ocean right up at you. Taking pictures is almost impossible unless you come better prepared with the right device and way to hold/trigger it than we did. Of course, swimming experience is required, but really this is not like normal wet-n-wild snorkeling. You basically just float face-down while hang on to the Light Board. Flotation noodles to keep you afloat, wet suit tops to keep you warm & floating, and snorkel masks to keep you breathing are all provided by Eka. Otherwise, just bring your own towel and a jacket to stay warm on the boat. Eka Canoe Adventures provided us a quick magical and memorable experience (even without in-water photos) snorkeling at night with manta rays off the coast of the Big Island of Hawaii that was awesome ... seriously, totally, ya, completely awesome!