Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Big Island of Hawaii, USA
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
On this exciting Big Island whale-watching tour, experience the thrill of traveling aboard a high-speed raft—and then seeing a whale swimming and splashing just beyond the boat. Surrounded by panoramic views of the Pacific, your captain will try to woo (safely and according to regulations) these gigantic creatures close enough for you to snap incredible photos—and maybe even get you splashed.
- Ride a 16-passenger zodiac boat for an adventure off the coast of Hawaii
- Travel along the famous Kona coast, getting spectacular views
- Look out for spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, manta rays, and humpback whales
- Witness the geology of Hawaii via lava tubes, sea caves, and more
What's Included
- Rafting expedition
- Beverages (sodas, fruit juices and bottled water) and snacks
- Local taxes
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup and drop off
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Captain Zodiac74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy #16, Kaiminani, HI 96740, USA
Captain Zodiac is located at 74-425 Kealakehe Parkway, suite #16. We are in the Honokohau Marina and small boat harbor located approximately 5 miles south of the Kona Airport and approximately 2 miles north of the town of Kailua-Kona. Meet at our office in the Gentry's Kona Marina parking lot.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
This Kona whale watch departs from the Kailua-Kona area, in the direction of Waikoloa. As you scour the coastline in search of a spout, your captain will discuss everything from Hawaiian history to the island’s unique geology, all while scanning the cobalt horizon for signs of a breach or a splash.
In winter, humpback whales travel here to these waters to mate and give birth to their young. The captain also serves as a naturalist and has a wealth of info on the whales, and also carries a hydrophone on board so you can hear the haunting and eerie song of whales singing underwater. In addition to pods of humpback whales, there’s also the chance you could see turtles, dolphins, manta rays or other marine life, and the Kona coast is also home to some lesser-known species of whales.
Depending on where the whales are spotted, you’ll also have the chance to see coastal sea caves and small, volcanic lava tubes, and hear some tales about how the island is still continuing to grow.
Since the boat only holds up to 16 passengers you’re guaranteed a personalized experience. Although the smaller Zodiac raft can be bouncy, and isn’t recommended for anyone pregnant or with back or neck problems, it's able to cut through the water without the stomach-churning rock. Many say it navigates the waters of the Kona coast better than any other style of boat.
In winter, humpback whales travel here to these waters to mate and give birth to their young. The captain also serves as a naturalist and has a wealth of info on the whales, and also carries a hydrophone on board so you can hear the haunting and eerie song of whales singing underwater. In addition to pods of humpback whales, there’s also the chance you could see turtles, dolphins, manta rays or other marine life, and the Kona coast is also home to some lesser-known species of whales.
Depending on where the whales are spotted, you’ll also have the chance to see coastal sea caves and small, volcanic lava tubes, and hear some tales about how the island is still continuing to grow.
Since the boat only holds up to 16 passengers you’re guaranteed a personalized experience. Although the smaller Zodiac raft can be bouncy, and isn’t recommended for anyone pregnant or with back or neck problems, it's able to cut through the water without the stomach-churning rock. Many say it navigates the waters of the Kona coast better than any other style of boat.
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Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Minimum age is 4 years
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 16 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Mark_C
Great information provided prior to leaving. The captains were excellent. Always maintained control providing great information about the boat, tour and mostly the whales. They knew where to go and safely followed spouts. We viewed about 22 whales and 8 breaches. Was a very good trip. I highly recommend this excursion. The beauty of Hawaii combined with outstanding whales having a lot of fun.
Reviews
4.9
based on 483 reviews
Vickir_B, Mar 2026
Ashley and Alex were so great. They educated us while finding SO many whales. You can tell they truly care about the species and we learned a lot, but we also got to see so many breaches! We saw flips and turns, spouts and tails... it was amazing! We saw 6 or 7 different whales, including a baby who was quite playful! The zodiac ride is not for the faint of heart-- it's bumpy but FUN and we loved our experience. We would do it again, most definitely!!
Jenna_B, Mar 2026
The boat ride is physical and by no means a luxury expedition (the zodiac is in great shape, but you’re hanging on to the side of a raft, not in a cushy seat). BUT Captain Ashley and Alec 100% gave a luxury expedition with their collective knowledge and overall experience. We saw several humpbacks and had a great experience wrapping up with a beautiful sunset as we headed into the marina.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the fantastic review! You described the experience perfectly — our zodiac adventures are definitely more rugged than luxury seating, but they allow for an exciting and up-close way to experience the ocean. We’re so glad Capt. Ashley and Alec delivered a truly “luxury” experience through their knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion for sharing the Kona coast.
Seeing several humpback whales and finishing the trip with a beautiful sunset sounds like the perfect Kona whale watching adventure. It’s moments like those that make every trip out on the water so special.
We truly appreciate you joining us and sharing your experience — it means a lot to our crew. 🌅🐋🌊🤙
Paul_S, Mar 2026
The crew, Shelby and Alec were awesome. Very informative and super friendly with a great sense of humor. If I do this again I want these 2.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo for the wonderful review! 🌺
We’re so happy to hear you had a great time out on the water with Shelby and Alec. They truly love what they do, and their knowledge, humor, and passion for sharing the ocean with our guests make every whale watching and snorkeling adventure special. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to them—they’ll be thrilled to hear it!
Next time you’re looking for the best snorkeling in Kona or another unforgettable whale watching trip, we would love to welcome you back aboard Captain Zodiac. We’ll do our best to get you out with Shelby and Alec again!
SAnna_S, Mar 2026
We had a great time and saw lots of whales! My only recommendation would be to try and aim the raft in different directions as those of us in the back only got to see about half of what those in the front did, and move people around, maybe switch sides and front to back on the way back to offer everyone the same experience of viewing. Or even talk people in the back and shorts ones up front. Other than that it was great! Highly recommend
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Mahalo nui loa for joining us and for taking the time to share your thoughtful feedback! We’re so happy to hear you had a great time and enjoyed seeing lots of whales — that’s always what we hope for out on the water. 🐋
We truly appreciate your suggestions as well. On a zodiac-style raft, whale sightings can happen quickly and unpredictably, and our captains do their best to position the boat safely while giving everyone opportunities to view these amazing animals. That said, your feedback about rotating viewing opportunities is valuable, and we’ll continue reminding our crew to encourage movement and sharing of space whenever conditions allow so everyone can enjoy the experience fully.
Mahalo again for the recommendation and for spending part of your whale watching adventure with us. We hope to welcome you back again soon for more unforgettable moments on the ocean! 🤙🌺
Richard_M, Feb 2026
I have never seen so many whales so close to the boat. Know you will be sitting on the gunnels of a Zodiac boat and getting splashed with salt water is unavoidable . The experience is well worth it.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for sharing your experience! There’s nothing quite like being surrounded by whales at eye level — it’s truly unforgettable. You’re absolutely right that riding on the gunnels of a Zodiac means a little salt spray is part of the adventure, but we love that you found it all worth it. We appreciate you choosing to join us and hope to welcome you back out on the water again soon 🤙🌊🐋
Robert_C, Feb 2026
I do not want to oversell this adventure, but it was an experience of a lifetime. Capt Marco and mate DeVante were fun and informative. The ride was not super rough despite being in a smaller vessel. According to Marco, we were in "whale jail" as we were surrounded by multiple whales and had to stay put as to not cause any injury to our rather large friends by starting our engines. We saw these whales closer than I thought possible. The wife was a little freaked out as their size is intimidating when that close. They truly are gently giants. It was amazing. I would load some pictures and video from our adventure but you would be disappointed if your tour did not have the same result. We have been on whale watching tours before and seeing, even at a distance, is a sight to behold. DO this tour if you do nothing else.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for such an incredible and heartfelt review!
We love that you described it as an experience of a lifetime — that’s exactly what we hope every guest walks away feeling. Captain Marco and DeVanté have such a great balance of fun and education, and we’re thrilled they helped make the day so memorable.
“Whale jail” is one of those unforgettable moments when we’re safely surrounded by whales and, as you mentioned, we remain stationary to protect them. When whales choose to approach and linger nearby, it’s completely on their terms — and being that close to such massive, gentle giants is both humbling and awe-inspiring. 🐋
We completely understand how their size can feel intimidating up close! It’s amazing how something so enormous can move with such grace.
Thank you for your honesty about the uniqueness of every trip. Whale watching is wildlife viewing, and while every day is different, every outing offers something special. We’re so grateful you chose to spend your time with us and that this one will stay with you forever.
Mahalo for the enthusiastic recommendation — we hope to see you back in Kona for another unforgettable day on the water! 🌊🤙
Lori_F, Feb 2026
This is the most amazing company so nice, educational, we went out, saw a few then bam right by our boat for about 30min trip of lifetime
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the kind words!
We’re so glad you had such an amazing experience and enjoyed the mix of fun and education out on the water with us. And those moments when whales come right up to the boat and stay nearby are truly unforgettable — it sounds like the ocean gave you a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. 🐋
Thank you for joining us and for choosing Captain Zodiac. We hope to have you back on the water for another incredible adventure soon! 🌊🤙
Jennifer_J, Feb 2026
the whales that mugged us were a once in a lifetime experience. Captain Ashley and Shelby were fantastic and full of energy. They definitely made the excursion more fun.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for sharing such a special experience!
“Whale mugging” moments — when whales choose to approach the boat on their own — are truly once-in-a-lifetime, and we’re so glad you were able to be part of one. Those encounters are entirely on the whales’ terms and create unforgettable memories for everyone on board. 🐋
Captain Ashley and Shelby bring so much energy and enthusiasm to every trip, and we’re thrilled they helped make the excursion even more fun. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to them!
Thank you for choosing Captain Zodiac. We hope to welcome you back for another incredible day on the water soon! 🌊🤙
Kellie_A, Feb 2026
Wow! We had no idea what we were in store for, but what an amazing adventure! We saw many whales, and so many incredible whale behaviors, it was incredibly fascinating. Our guides were fantastic, they made us feel safe, and comfortable, and were a wealth of knowledge.
We traveled with our adult children, and my 82-year-old mother. I will admit when we first arrived, I was not positive that my mother would be able to handle the circumstances. We had no idea that there were no seats on a zodiac boat, and that we would be sitting on the bumpers and holding onto a line attached to the outside, but she was a trooper and they worked very diligently to be sure that she was safe and comfortable. She was exhausted at the end, but so glad she came. I definitely recommend 10/10!!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for such a thoughtful and wonderful review!
We’re so glad your family had an amazing adventure and were able to witness so many whales and incredible behaviors out on the water. Our crew loves sharing their knowledge while making sure everyone feels safe, comfortable, and cared for throughout the trip.
We especially appreciate you sharing your experience traveling with your 82-year-old mother. Our Zodiac tours are unique — guests are seated on the side tubes and holding on during the ride — and while it can be physically demanding, our crew always does their very best to support each guest and help them feel secure. We’re so happy she was able to join, enjoy the experience, and leave feeling proud she did it.
Thank you for the 10/10 recommendation and for choosing Captain Zodiac. We hope to welcome your whole family back for another unforgettable whale watching adventure! 🐋🌊🤙
Liping_Q, Feb 2026
very lucky to spot many whales and the team is so nice and knowledgable！really recommend you to take the tour
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the kind words! We’re so glad you had a lucky day on the water and were able to spot so many whales — that never gets old for us either. 🐋
Our crew loves sharing what we know and making every trip fun, safe, and memorable, so it means a lot to hear that it showed. We truly appreciate the recommendation and hope to welcome you back out with us again soon for another adventure! 🌺🤙
Paul_R, Feb 2026
Well organised and friendly team provided an informative and fun whale watch and we were thrilled to have four whale sightings. Skipper Sam and naturist Alec made the afternoon memorable.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the kind words! We’re so glad you had an informative and fun afternoon on the water and were able to enjoy several whale sightings — it’s always special when they show up to make the day memorable.
Skipper Sam and naturalist Alec will be thrilled to hear your shout-out. Their knowledge and passion for the ocean and humpbacks really shine on every trip.
We truly appreciate you choosing Captain Zodiac and hope to welcome you back out on the water again soon! 🌊🐋
Dale_S, Feb 2026
Absolutely fantastic! Our Captain was very knowledgeable and I really liked his attitude. We did not approach too close but the whales seemed to be very interested in us and swam up to the boat and under it, giving us a very personal experience. The zodiac boat is also a fun experience! Yay! We loved the entire experience! Best whale watch we’ve ever been on!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for such a wonderful review! We’re so happy to hear this was the best whale watch you’ve ever been on.
Our captains take great pride in sharing their knowledge while keeping every encounter respectful and safe for the whales, so it means a lot to hear that stood out. Moments when the whales choose to approach the raft on their own are always incredibly special—and exactly the kind of personal, unforgettable experiences we hope to create.
And we couldn’t agree more… the Zodiac ride is half the fun! We’re thrilled you loved the entire adventure and hope to welcome you back out on the water again soon. 🌊🐋🤙
Timothy_C, Feb 2026
Physically demanding. Arms were tired from having to hold onto rope. Don’t do if you have any type of back pain or injury.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the honest feedback — we really appreciate you sharing your experience.
Our raft adventures are definitely active and can be physically demanding, especially when ocean conditions are bumpy and guests are holding on during the ride. We always want guests to feel prepared, which is why we include clear guidance during the booking process and again in the waiver about the physical nature of the trip and the recommendation that those with back pain, injuries, or certain medical conditions not participate.
Safety and comfort are incredibly important to us, and our crew is always happy to talk through what to expect and help guests decide if the experience is the right fit for them.
We truly appreciate you joining us and hope you still enjoyed the adventure overall. Mahalo for choosing Captain Zodiac! 🌊🤙
Lori, Feb 2026
Super fun to zoom over the waves with a naturalist on board. We spotted multiple whales that gave us a wonderful show. Absolutely my favorite way to go whale watching!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the great review!
We’re so glad you enjoyed the thrill of zooming over the waves and having a naturalist on board to help spot and interpret all the whale activity. Seeing multiple whales put on a show is always unforgettable, and it’s wonderful to hear this was your favorite way to go whale watching.
Thank you for choosing Captain Zodiac — we hope to have you back out on the water for another fun adventure soon! 🐋🌊🤙
Toni_K, Feb 2026
Top Notch! Marco & Shelby were fabulous and were able to spot Whales flawlessly!! We were “mugged” by a whale (swam under our boat) Once in a lifetime adventure! Safe and Enjoyable day!!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the amazing review! 🌊🐋
We’re thrilled you had such a memorable day with Marco & Shelby—they truly have a gift for spotting whales, and a surprise “mugging” is about as once-in-a-lifetime as it gets! We’re so glad you felt safe, comfortable, and had such an unforgettable experience on the water.
We’d love to welcome you back for another adventure—until then, mahalo for choosing Captain Zodiac! 🌺
Mark_C, Jan 2026
Great information provided prior to leaving. The captains were excellent. Always maintained control providing great information about the boat, tour and mostly the whales. They knew where to go and safely followed spouts. We viewed about 22 whales and 8 breaches. Was a very good trip. I highly recommend this excursion. The beauty of Hawaii combined with outstanding whales having a lot of fun.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for taking the time to share such a thoughtful and detailed review! 🌺🐋
We’re so glad to hear you felt well prepared before departure and that our captains delivered a safe, informative, and engaging experience on the water. Seeing about 22 whales and 8 breaches is truly spectacular—what an incredible day to witness these animals in their element.
Thank you for your strong recommendation and for choosing to experience the beauty of Hawaiʻi and its whales with us. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure! 🌊✨
Leslie_M, Jan 2026
The crew was incredibly knowledgeable and also work in whale rescue. They were incredible to spend the morning with and we saw a ton of different whales and other animals. 2 pairs of mom/babies and a super pod of bottlenose dolphins! It was a great time!! Would definitely recommend and go again!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo nui loa for this incredible review! 🌺🐋
We’re so glad you enjoyed spending the morning with our crew—sharing their knowledge and conservation work, including whale rescue, is something they’re truly passionate about. Seeing mom and baby pairs along with a super pod of bottlenose dolphins is an unforgettable experience, and we’re thrilled you had such a special day on the water.
Thank you for the recommendation and your kind words—we’d love to have you back again for another amazing adventure! 🌊✨
Lisa_R, Jan 2026
There is no better way to whale watch than on a zodiac. Our tour was safe, exhilarating, and oh so fun. Alex was our captain, and her love and excitement for whales was incredible—she got just as excited as we did when we came upon these beautiful creatures. She knew exactly where to go, and we saw no fewer than 13 whales tail slapping, breaching, and playing. It was an amazing experience, and we would not hesitate to go on another adventure with Captain Zodiac.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo nui loa for such a fantastic review! 🌺🐋
We love hearing how much you enjoyed the Zodiac experience—safe, exhilarating, and fun is exactly what we aim for. Our captains' passion for whales is truly contagious, and it’s wonderful to know her excitement and expertise helped make your day so memorable. Seeing 13 whales tail slapping, breaching, and playing is nothing short of spectacular!
Thank you for choosing Captain Zodiac and for the heartfelt recommendation. We’d be honored to take you out again on your next adventure in Hawaiʻi! 🌊✨
Nevan_T, Jan 2026
Phenomenal experience. Great, friendly crew. Great views and saw many whales! You are not just whale watching, you are also experiencing fast speeds on a raft!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Mahalo for the great review! 🌺🐋
We’re so happy you had a phenomenal experience with our friendly crew and enjoyed both the incredible whale sightings and the thrill of the Zodiac ride. You’re absolutely right—it’s not just whale watching, it’s an adventure on the water!
We’d love to welcome you back for another fast, fun, and unforgettable trip. 🌊✨
DeAnne_J, Jan 2026
WOW! What a great trip. We were a little delayed in leaving because of a medical emergency at the end of the previous outing but the staff kept us informed and the delay was minimal. Our Captain was very informative and kept us engaged the whole trip. We got to see 20+ whales breaching and diving and 2 large pods of Spinner Dolphins! Listening to the whale song was very special and you could discern different whales when you listened closely. The Zodiac is a lot of fun and can get up and go. When we would see a whale spout, we could get to a safe location quickly for viewing. I would highly recommend this trip and will go again. Loads of fun!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Aloha! 🌺
WOW indeed — mahalo nui loa for such an amazing review! We truly appreciate your understanding regarding the brief delay, and we’re glad our team kept you informed and that you were still able to enjoy a fantastic day on the water.
Seeing 20+ whales, breaching and diving, along with two large pods of spinner dolphins is an unforgettable Kona whale watching experience! 🐋🐬✨ Listening to the whale song and being able to distinguish different singers is always a special moment, and we’re so glad you got to experience that.
The Zodiac’s speed and maneuverability really do make a difference, allowing us to safely reposition for great viewing opportunities while always respecting the whales’ space. We’re thrilled you found the ride fun and engaging from start to finish.
Mahalo for the high recommendation! We can’t wait to welcome you back aboard for another adventure — loads of fun await!
With aloha,
Captain Zodiac 🏴☠️🌊
Neil_B, Jan 2026
The captain was excellent. Well worth it! Whales where very helpful. They put on a show for us. Best whale trip
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Aloha! 🌺
Mahalo for the great review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such an excellent whale watching experience. When the whales decide to “put on a show,” it really does make for the best day on the water! 🐋✨
We’re so glad you felt the trip was well worth it and the best whale trip — that means so much to our crew. Mahalo nui loa for choosing Captain Zodiac, and we hope to welcome you back again soon!
With aloha,
Captain Zodiac 🏴☠️🌊
Lauren_E, Jan 2026
Loved this tour. Captain Rick and Alec were so engaging and knowledgeable. I will for sure do this again on my next visit to Big Island.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Aloha! 🌺
Mahalo for sharing your experience! We’re so happy to hear you loved the tour and that Captain Rick and Alec made it so engaging and informative. Their passion and knowledge really help make each adventure special.
We’d be honored to welcome you back on your next visit to the Big Island for another unforgettable day on the water!
With aloha,
Captain Zodiac 🏴☠️🌊
Brenda_D, Jan 2026
We had a great time and would absolutely do it again! Sam and Collin were fantastic tour guides. The winds and waves were strong but it was a thrilling adventure!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Aloha! 🌺
Mahalo for sharing your experience! We’re so happy to hear you had a great time and would absolutely do it again. Sam and Collin are a fantastic team, and we’re glad they helped make your adventure both fun and memorable.
Strong winds and waves definitely add to the thrill of a Zodiac ride, and we’re glad you embraced the excitement! 🌊✨ Mahalo nui loa for choosing Captain Zodiac — we’d love to welcome you back for another adventure soon.
With aloha,
Captain Zodiac 🏴☠️🌊
Kyle_K, Jan 2026
We went out first with Colin and Sam, who were both very knowledgeable and passionate about whales. It was a wonderful experience, even though we didn’t see any whales (and it wasn’t for lack of trying— Colin said that this was VERY rare for January). He wanted us to have a good experience so he booked us again the morning after, and we went with Shelby and Davonte. They were a pleasure and we saw 5 whales including the first humpback baby of the season that Shelby had seen! If you’re looking for a tour that is passionate about conservation and loves to share that passion, this is the one.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo nui loa for taking the time to share your experience. We truly appreciate your understanding and kind words about Colin and Sam—their passion for whales and the ocean means a lot to us. While sightings are never guaranteed, we’re so glad Colin was able to get you back out on the water and that your second trip with Shelby and Davonte was such a special one, especially seeing the first humpback calf of the season—what an incredible moment! Conservation, respect for wildlife, and sharing that passion with our guests are at the heart of what we do. Thank you for choosing to join us, and we hope to welcome you back again someday.
Lorie_C, Jan 2026
Tour brought us to see many whales, dolphins & flying fish were a great addition to the end of our adventure! Guides were super friendly and comical! Highly recommended!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo nui loa for the fantastic review! We’re so happy to hear you enjoyed seeing so many whales, along with dolphins and flying fish to top off the adventure—that’s always a fun surprise! Our crew loves keeping things light, fun, and full of aloha, and we’re glad that came through. Thank you for the recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back again soon.
Mason_R, Jan 2026
I grew up in a landlocked state. I always dreamed of seeing these beautiful animals since I was a child. This did not disappoint. We saw about 20 of them on our 3 hour trip. At one point, the 2 female captains turned the boat off and dropped a mic in the water. We listened to the whales talking to each other. This was absolutely beautiful to me.
It was clear that the captains had a lot of knowledge but their passion for the job truly made the experience better.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo nui loa for sharing such a beautiful and personal experience with us. Knowing this was a lifelong dream makes it especially meaningful to hear that it lived up to your hopes. Hearing the whales communicate through the hydrophone is truly magical, and we’re so glad you were able to experience that moment. Our captains care deeply about the ocean and these incredible animals, and it means a lot that their passion and knowledge helped make your trip unforgettable. Thank you for choosing to share this special experience with us.
Gracy_C, Jan 2026
Absolutely amazing! The two girls running the Zodiac were excellent at finding the whales and were very fun to spend time with. We got to see five breaches! Definitely a highlight of our vacation!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo nui loa for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such an amazing time and were treated to five breaches—what an incredible experience! Our crew loves sharing the excitement of the ocean, and we’re so glad they made the trip both fun and memorable for you. Thank you for choosing to join us, and we hope to welcome you back again on your next visit.
Lisa_H, Jan 2026
This trip exceeded our expectations! The highlights were being "mugged" by a female and her calf, seeing a female tail slap the water 21 times in a row, and on our way back to shore a full breach that the Pacific Life Insurance whale has nothing on. Sandy (our captain) and Cameron (her 2nd) were friendly, knowledgeable, and just as excited by all the activity as we were. Plus the boat ride on the military grade Zodiac boat was just plain FUN.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Mahalo nui loa for sharing such an incredible experience with us! Being “mugged” by a mom and calf, witnessing repeated tail slaps, and ending with a full breach—what an unforgettable day on the water! We love hearing how much fun you had with Sandy and Cameron; their excitement and passion truly shine, and they’ll be thrilled to hear your kind words. Add in the thrill of the military-grade Zodiac ride, and it sounds like a perfect adventure. Thank you for joining us, and we hope to welcome you back again soon.
MeiLen_S, Jan 2026
Second time and they deliver! Marco and team were so knowledgeable, respectful, and tried hard to get us the best possible experience! In the end, we saw humpbacks and had dolphin playtime in our wake!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Aloha! 🌺
Mahalo for joining us again — we’re honored to hear this was your second time adventuring with Captain Zodiac! We’re thrilled that Marco and the team delivered another wonderful experience. Their knowledge, respect for the wildlife, and dedication to giving guests the best possible day on the water truly set them apart.
Seeing humpbacks and having dolphins playing in your wake is pure Kona magic! 🐋🐬✨
Mahalo nui loa for returning to us. We’d love to welcome you back for a third adventure whenever you’re on the island!
With aloha,
Captain Zodiac 🏴☠️🌊
Jane_T, Dec 2025
Wow what a ride!!!! Absolutely fantastic. Very adventurous ride in a 24’ zodiac, not for the faint of heart. Must be able to hold on. This is not a cushy light boat ride. We saw bottle nose dolphin, whales and schools of fish. Very cool, worth the cost and I would do it again in a heart beat. Mahalo Ashley and Cameron you did an amazing job.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Aloha! 🌺
Mahalo for the awesome review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a fantastic and adventurous ride aboard our 24’ Zodiac — it’s definitely an experience for those who love a bit of excitement on the water! We appreciate you highlighting that it’s not a cushy cruise, and we’re glad you embraced the adventure and had a blast.
Bottle-nose dolphins, whales, and schools of fish all in one trip make for an incredible Kona day! 🐬🐋✨ We’re so happy Ashley and Cameron helped make the experience memorable — they love sharing the ocean with our guests.
Mahalo nui loa for joining us, and we’d be honored to have you back again in a heartbeat!
With aloha,
Captain Zodiac 🏴☠️🌊
From $126.47
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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- Mauna Kea Summit and Observatory Tours & Tickets
- Hulihee Palace Tours & Tickets
- Thurston Lava Tube (Nāhuku) Tours & Tickets
- Mauna Loa Tours & Tickets
- Chain of Craters Road Tours & Tickets
- Crater Rim Drive Tours & Tickets
More attractions near Big Island of Hawaii, USA