Captain Zodiac whale watching tour on the Big Island featuring high-speed raft rides and close encounters with humpback whales

Whale Watching Tour

Captain Zodiac

Captain Zodiac – Whale Watching Tour is an exciting Kona Coast adventure that brings you eye-to-eye with migrating humpback whales aboard a fast, agile Zodiac raft. Enjoy a thrilling ride close to the ocean's surface with guaranteed front-row views, live whale songs via hydrophone, and expert naturalist commentary. Along the way, spot dolphins, sea turtles, and explore dramatic lava tubes, sea caves, and blowholes in an intimate small-group setting.

scheduleDuration: 3 hours

Operates daily except Wednesdays from mid-December through mid-March.

  • was$124.31
  • now$103.00

🐋 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.

Special Instructions

Where and When
Tour times:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
11:45 am - 2:45 pm
Check in 15 minutes prior to your your time at Honokohau Harbor View Map
Driving directions: Honokohau Marina and small boat harbor is located approximately 5 miles south of the Kona Airport (fourth traffic light) and approximately 2 miles north of the town of Kailua-Kona (third traffic light). The harbor entrance (Kealakehe Parkway) can be found by looking for a sign on the highway marked HONOKOHAU MARINA between mile markers 97 & 98. After turning onto Kealakehe Parkway make your first right and look for a mall with a blue tile roof. Our office is the first on the right in the mall.
Restrictions
Children must be at least 4 years old to participate.
Due to the bouncy nature of the ride, pregnant women or people with back or neck problems may not participate.
Special Notes
This tour might not be available if a cruise ship is visiting Kona on the day of your requested tour day.
Operation Days
Daily except Wednesdays from mid-December through mid-March
Duration
3 hours

Captain Zodiac - Whale Watch Prices

  • Per Adult (13 yrs+)
    $124.31 $103.00
    Per Child (4-12 yrs)
    $97.28 $83.00

why book with us?

  • Secure Shopping

    Safe, secure online booking system with validated privacy protection.

  • Advance Booking
    Satisfaction

    Avoid sellouts and price increases. Relax knowing your activities are reserved and guaranteed.

  • Friendly Support

    Our staff will answer any questions you may have and ensure 100% satisfaction.