Choosing Your Vessel: Tour Options & Operators
Find the perfect boat and tour operator for your whale watching adventure
Written by a Local Expert
Kalani MillerChoosing Your Vessel: The Big Island Tour Breakdown
The boat you choose is the single biggest factor that will shape your whale watching memory. Are you looking for a smooth, stable ride with a mai tai in hand, or do you want to feel the spray on your face and see a whale's eye from water level? There's no "best" boat, only the best boat for you. Let's break it down.
Large Catamarans & Monohulls
The Experience:
These are your floating observation decks, prioritizing stability and amenities.
Pros:
- Extremely stable, which is a huge advantage for anyone prone to seasickness
- Onboard restrooms, plenty of shade, and often serve drinks and snacks
- Spaciousness makes them ideal for all ages, from toddlers to grandparents
- Great for those with mobility concerns
- Many are equipped with hydrophones to listen to whale songs live
Cons:
- Host larger groups, which can feel less personal
- Positioned higher above the water, offering a more distant perspective
💡 My Advice: For families with young children or multi-generational groups, always choose a large catamaran. The comfort and amenities, especially the restrooms, are a game-changer and ensure everyone has a good time.
Small Group Rafts (Zodiacs & Navy SEAL-style boats)
The Experience:
This is a fast-paced, adventurous, and intimate ocean thrill ride.
Pros:
- The ride itself is exhilarating
- Being at water level provides an unparalleled perspective on the sheer scale of the whales
- Small group size (often 12-16 passengers) feels very personal
- Speed and agility allow captains to quickly get to where the action is happening
Cons:
- Bumpy ride - not recommended for pregnant women or anyone with chronic back or neck issues
- Minimal to no shade and no onboard restrooms
- You will almost certainly get wet from ocean spray
💡 My Advice: If you have a spirit for adventure and want to feel like you're part of the action, a zodiac is unbeatable. The perspective from the water line is something you'll never forget.
Mid-Size Sailboats & Powerboats
The Experience:
These vessels often represent the "best of both worlds," balancing the comfort of a larger boat with the intimacy of a smaller one.
Pros:
- Sailboats offer a uniquely peaceful and eco-friendly experience, powered by the wind
- Creates a quiet atmosphere to appreciate the sounds of the ocean
- Modern, custom-built power catamarans offer speed, stability, and comfort
- Often with restrooms and shade but for smaller groups than giant catamarans
Cons:
- Sailboats are more dependent on wind and weather conditions
- These more specialized tours can sometimes be more expensive per person
💡 My Advice: For a romantic trip or for those who appreciate the quiet of the ocean, a sailboat is a magical choice. For a great all-around experience, the new generation of custom-built mid-size power catamarans offers an incredible, modern platform for wildlife viewing.
My Trusted Big Island Tour Operators
To help you navigate the options, here are some of my trusted, locally-owned and operated tour providers on the Big Island.
Body Glove
Kailua Pier, Kona - Large Catamaran
Best For: Families, Large Groups, Comfort-Seekers
A Big Island classic. Their 'Kanoa II' is incredibly stable and packed with amenities. A guaranteed comfortable day for all ages.
Captain Zodiac
Honokohau Harbor, Kona - Zodiac Raft
Best For: Thrill-Seekers, Intimate Views, Photographers
The original rafting company. They offer a wet, wild, and unforgettable ride. You're at eye-level with the ocean's giants.
Hawaiian Adventures Kona
Honokohau Harbor, Kona - Custom Power Catamaran
Best For: Serious Wildlife Enthusiasts, Small Groups
A family-run 'ohana with a brand-new, purpose-built boat. Their guides are passionate marine naturalists. A top-tier educational experience.
Kohala Divers
Kawaihae Harbor, Kohala - Mid-size Dive Boat
Best For: Sunset Views, Kohala Coast Resort Guests
My top pick for a sunset whale watch. They depart from the Kohala Coast and even offer resort transport, making it incredibly convenient.
Liquid Hawaii
Puako, Kohala - Small Powerboat
Best For: Intimate Groups, Educational Focus
Another fantastic 'ohana-run business. They offer very personal, small-group tours right from Puako, the heart of the whale nursery.
Alii Ocean Tours
Honokohau Harbor, Kona - Mid-size Cruiser
Best For: Luxury Small Groups, Customizable Trips
They focus on a higher-end, more spacious experience, taking fewer passengers than their boat is certified for. Great for a premium feel.
Continue Your Whale Watching Journey
Explore our complete guide to Big Island whale watching
ℹ️ Quick Info
- Best Season: Jan-Mar
- Tour Duration: 2-4 hours
- Legal Distance: 100 yards
- Group Size: Varies by boat
🚤 Vessel Types
- Large Catamarans
Best for families
- Zodiac Rafts
Best for adventure
- Sailboats
Best for romance