Ocean Tours & Adventures
More Ways to Explore the Blue: From Whales to Deep Sea Fishing
Written by an Ocean Expert
Kalani MillerMore Ways to Explore the Blue: Ocean Tours & Adventures
Beyond snorkeling and surfing, the Big Island offers a host of world-class ocean tours that showcase the grandeur of its marine environment. From the awe-inspiring humpback whales to the thrill of landing a giant marlin, there's an adventure waiting for you.
Whale Watching - A Seasonal Spectacle (December-April)
Each winter, the waters off the Big Island transform into a nursery and playground for thousands of North Pacific Humpback Whales (koholā). Witnessing these majestic creatures is a truly humbling experience.
The "When" and "Why": Humpback whale season officially runs from December through April. The peak months for sightings are January, February, and March. These gentle giants migrate from their summer feeding grounds in Alaska to Hawaiʻi's warm, shallow, and protected waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their newborn calves.
🛥️ Large Catamarans
Operators like Body Glove and Hawaii Ocean Sports use large, stable catamarans. These vessels offer more amenities like restrooms and bars, ample shade, and a smoother ride.
Best for: Families, comfort seekers, seasickness-prone
🚤 Small Rafts (Zodiacs)
Companies like Captain Zodiac offer tours on fast, rigid-hull inflatable rafts. These tours are more exhilarating and put you much closer to the water's surface for an eye-level view.
Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, thrill lovers
💡 My Tip
Think about the experience you want. For a relaxed, comfortable viewing with a cocktail in hand, a big catamaran is perfect. If you're seeking a thrilling, wind-in-your-hair adventure where you feel every wave and get up close and personal with the ocean, a zodiac raft is the way to go.
ℹ️ Quick Info
- Whale Season: Dec-Apr
- Peak Months: Jan-Mar
- Fishing Season: Year-round
- Tour Duration: 2-8 hours
🌊 Tour Types
Dec-Apr seasonal tours
Marlin & tuna charters
Romantic dinner cruises
Multi-spot adventures
🧭 More Water Activities
✍️ About the Author
Ocean Expert
A lifelong ocean enthusiast and cultural storyteller dedicated to sharing the Big Island's water activities responsibly and authentically.
Fishing Charters - The Thrill of the Kona Coast
The Kona coast is world-renowned for its big game sport fishing, thanks to the deep waters just offshore. But understanding the different types of charters is key to a successful day.
Inshore vs. Offshore Explained
This is the most important distinction for visitors.
🎣 Inshore/Nearshore Fishing
These charters stay within a few miles of the coast in calmer waters. Trips are often shorter (half-day is common), and you'll target a variety of smaller, but still exciting, fish. The action is generally more consistent.
✅ Best for: Families, beginners, guaranteed action
🎯 Offshore/Deep Sea Fishing
This is serious big game hunting. These full-day charters venture far from land into the deep blue in search of massive pelagic species. The seas can be rough, and the day can involve long periods of trolling without a bite.
🏆 Best for: Serious anglers, trophy hunters
What You Can Catch
While many species can be caught year-round, there are definite peak seasons:
Blue Marlin: May-October
The ultimate trophy fish
Striped Marlin: Dec-March
Acrobatic fighters
Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi): Jun-Sep
Perfect for sashimi
Wahoo (Ono): Jun-Aug
Speed demons of the sea
Mahi-mahi (Dorado): Mar-Sep
Colorful and delicious
⚠️ My Tip
It's crucial to set realistic expectations. Offshore fishing is more accurately called "hunting." You can spend an entire day trolling without a single bite. If you're bringing your kids or just want the fun of reeling something in, book a four-hour inshore charter. The action is faster, and you'll have a much higher chance of success.
Sailing & Catamaran Cruises
For a purely relaxing and scenic experience, nothing beats a sailing cruise along the Kona coast. Many companies offer daytime snorkel sails, but the sunset and dinner cruises are particularly magical.
Operators like Body Glove and Hawaii Nautical offer popular evening tours. These typically include a complimentary cocktail, live Hawaiian music, and a delicious buffet-style dinner. The highlight is watching the spectacular Kona sunset from the water, often with the historic Kealakekua Bay as a backdrop.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Watch the spectacular Kona sunset paint the sky in brilliant colors while enjoying cocktails and Hawaiian music.
🍽️ Dinner Cruises
Enjoy buffet-style dinners featuring local favorites while sailing along the dramatic volcanic coastline.
🎵 Live Music
Experience authentic Hawaiian music and culture while the gentle trade winds carry you along the coast.