Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii

128 Reviews 4.89 out of 5 stars Based on 128 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 96% of reviewers
96% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Big Island of Hawaii, USA
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from $99 per person

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Humpback whales travel about 3,000 miles from Alaska to Hawaii each winter, one of the longest journeys of any land or sea animal. They arrive in December and depart in March!
Catch the most scenic views of the big island of Hawaii on our cruise out to find the whales.
Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii Image 3
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On average, this is booked 32 (0) days in advance.
2 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
Japanese

Overview

It is finally that time of year where the beautiful humpback whales make their return to the Hawaiian islands after migrating from Alaska! Step aboard the Kibou and explore the incredible Kailua-Kona coast while searching for our seasonal humpback whales! Learn about the majestic creatures and the local area with our experienced and knowledgeable crew! Bring your own beverages, sit back, and enjoy the view with Iruka Hawaii Dolphin!

What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Bathroom onboard
  • Gratuities
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Kealakehe Parkway
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Travel along the beautiful Kona coast and search for our seasonal humpback whales as they have made their annual return after migrating from Alaska. Explore beautiful blue waters and see mountainous views on the best whale watching boat tour in Kona!

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Whales are wild animals, so the sighting is not guaranteed. In case of no whale, we will put you on a next available tour as a rain check for free of charge.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(9)

Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?

A: As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Whale Watching Tour – Big Island, Hawaii. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat. Read more Dec 2022

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-337841P9

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Reviews

4.89
128 reviews

Average 4.89 out of 5 stars based on 126 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
120
4 stars
1
3 stars
3
2 stars
1
1 star
1

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On average, this is booked 32 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Hawaii customers.

Filter by:

Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?
A:

As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Whale Watching Tour – Big Island, Hawaii. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.

Dec 2022
Q: Will I get seasick on Whale Watching Tour – Big Island, Hawaii?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Whale Watching Tour – Big Island, Hawaii?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
  • This activity requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Snacks.
  • Bottled water.
  • Bathroom onboard.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuities.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this activity?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This activity requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible activity?
A:

Accessibility information for the Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Whale Watching Tour – Big Island, Hawaii will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Hawaii. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024

What's Included

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  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Bathroom onboard
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

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  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Whales are wild animals, so the sighting is not guaranteed. In case of no whale, we will put you on a next available tour as a rain check for free of charge.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
  • This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This activity requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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