Is it safe?
Our boat is a 30 ft Rigid Inflatable Boat, the type of boat that is considered one of the safest (hence why the Coast Guard uses them).
An Unforgettable Experience
Whale watching is one of the most captivating marine wildlife experiences you can witness if you're lucky enough to visit Hawaii during whale season, which runs from December through April. The waters off Puako offer an excellent chance to spot the highest number of humpback whales. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a close encounter with these ocean giants.
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$125 USD
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3 yrs+
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2-hour
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Kawaihae South Basin, Big Island, Hawaii
ULTIMATE BIG ISLAND Whale Watch Features
A Journey With Purpose
Each year, hundreds of North Pacific humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm waters. These majestic creatures undertake this incredible journey annually, seeking a safe sanctuary to rest, bond, and bring new life into the world. Hawaii’s mild climate and welcoming waters offer the ideal conditions for their breeding and nurturing grounds, drawing them back generation after generation. Guided by ancestral wisdom and a powerful instinct, these whales navigate the vast ocean to return to this special place. Witness this remarkable migration and discover why Hawaii holds such a vital place in their life cycle.
An Incredible Show
As the boat heads into the open ocean, keep an eye out for dolphins and sea turtles swimming nearby. In deeper waters, you'll be greeted by the spouts, flukes, and breathtaking breaches of migrating humpback whales. Observe the unique markings on their flukes, watch as they create fountains with their blowholes! These giants of the ocean are gentle creatures, and seeing them up close is an experience you’ll never forget.
The Beautiful Kohala Coast
Sheltered from the winds by Mauna Loa, Kona’s clear, glassy coastal waters provide an ideal environment for observing sea life. From the boat, you can look back to take in the Kona landscape, rugged cliffs, and the slopes of Mauna Loa from a unique vantage point. As the sun begins to set, watch the light change to the soft golden hues that make Hawai’i’s sunsets so unique. Later, you’ll want to watch for the “green flash.”
ULTIMATE BIG ISLAND Whale Watch Details
Highlights
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Take Off From Kawaihae South Basin
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See Whales In Their Natural Habitat
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Learn Whale Facts And Behaviors
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Listen To Whale Songs Through Underwater Hydrophones
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Whale Watching December – April
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Tons Of Photo Opportunities
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Snacks And Drinks Available
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Expert Crew
Description
Every day brings something new on the ocean, but the thrill remains constant, keeping us on the edge of our seats. Even though our crew has done this many times, we still get excited for whale season!
Just after leaving the dock, we head into the Nursery grounds to look for newborn calves with their mothers—and more! As we venture farther out, you might see a competition pod—a dramatic battle between males vying for a female's attention. Since humpbacks spend most of their time underwater, we wait in anticipation for them to surface, hoping to catch sight of their awe-inspiring breaches. We also search for singing whales, using our underwater hydrophone to listen to their beautiful songs – the melodies that make these creatures so unique and have played a role in their survival.
Throughout the tour, the Captain and Crew will share insights on humpback behaviors, provide detailed interpretations, and offer fascinating facts about these whales, including the latest theories, historic tales, and even moments of quiet to fully appreciate these majestic animals. With Adventure X's decades of experience, we continue to bring fresh, exciting, and vibrant energy to our tours. We invite you to join us in creating these unforgettable memories together.
Price & Availability
2-Hour Ultimate Big Island Whale Watch From Kawaihae South Basin
| AdultsAges 13 yrs+ | $125.00 |
| ChildrenAges 3-12 yrs | $95.00 |
Check-in: 30 minutes prior to departure.
Included
We Provide: Cold drinks and snacks.
What to Bring: Sunscreen and hat. Dress like you are going to the beach!
"Snacks (including fresh pineapple) and cold beverages (La Croix, Ginger Ale, Fresca, Hawaiian juice, and bottled water) are provided. Don’t forget your sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen!"
Instructions
No one Pregnant over 6 months, no guests with back or neck injuries. No children under the age of 3 years old.
Cancellation
You can make any changes to your booking up to 72 Hours PRIOR to your Departure Time. The company reserves the right to cancel or reschedule tours at any time due to weather or capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
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ULTIMATE BIG ISLAND Whale Watch Reviews
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