🐋 Captain Zodiac – Whale Watching Tour
Get up close and personal with majestic humpback whales on this exhilarating whale watch tour aboard a Zodiac raft. Known for their speed and maneuverability, Zodiac boats allow you to cruise just feet above the ocean’s surface — offering eye-level views and front-row seats for every guest.
Every winter, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and give birth. As your naturalist captain shares fascinating insights into their behaviors, you’ll also listen to live whale songs through underwater hydrophones — an unforgettable audio experience.
While cruising along the stunning Kona Coast, keep your eyes open for other marine life, including spinner dolphins and sea turtles. The tour also highlights the area’s dramatic coastal features, such as lava tubes, sea caves, blowholes and rock archways.
🎉 Tour Highlights:
- Up-close whale watching aboard a Zodiac raft
- Listen to live whale songs via underwater hydrophones
- Opportunity to see dolphins, turtles and other marine life
- Explore sea caves, lava tubes and unique coastal features
- Small group setting for a personal and immersive experience
⚠️ Please note:
In Captain Zodiac's efforts to minimizing human impact on Hawaii's environment, the crew does not provide plastic bottles of water on the trip. They encourage guests to use reusable water bottles and guests are welcome to bring their own or purchase available ones at check in. There are fill-up stations available at the office and on the boat.
Captain Zodiac Whale Watching FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is a Zodiac raft well suited for whale watching?
The 16-passenger Zodiac rides low to the water and can move quickly when whale activity is spotted, giving guests unobstructed views in a small-group setting. The naturalist captain also explains humpback whale behavior while following federal wildlife-viewing regulations.
Can guests hear whale songs during the Captain Zodiac tour?
Yes. The rafts carry underwater hydrophones that may be used to listen to humpback whale songs when whales are vocalizing nearby. Guests may also spot dolphins and other marine life during the three-hour excursion.
Who should avoid the Captain Zodiac whale-watching tour?
Because the Zodiac ride can be fast and bumpy, the tour is not suitable for pregnant guests or anyone with back or neck problems. Participants must be at least 4 years old and should be comfortable with an active small-raft ocean ride.