Ocean Encounters whale watching tour along the Big Island coastline with opportunities to see breaching humpback whales

Whale Watch Tour

Ocean Encounters

Ocean Encounters – Whale Watch Tour offers an unforgettable cruise along the Kona Coast, where humpback whales migrate each winter from Alaska to Hawaii's warm waters. Enjoy thrilling close-up sightings, breathtaking photo opportunities, and the chance to see dolphins and sea turtles, all from a spacious and comfortable 46-foot vessel with shaded seating, a cabin, and modern amenities.

scheduleDuration: 2.5 hours

Operates daily from mid-December through March.

  • was$118.48
  • now$102.00

🐋 Ocean Encounters - Whale Watch Tour

Every winter from December through March, majestic humpback whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the warm Hawaiian seas. Join Ocean Encounters for an unforgettable whale watching cruise along the scenic Kona Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii.

🎉 Tour Highlights:

  • Experience thrilling close-up views of humpback whales in their natural habitat
  • Spot other marine life such as spinner dolphins and Hawaiian green sea turtles
  • Capture stunning ocean and wildlife photos with breathtaking island backdrops

🍽️ Tour Inclusions:

  • Light snacks
  • Soda and water

🚤 The Boat:

  • 46 ft. vessel
  • Big and roomy with a restroom, plenty of shaded areas
  • Big swim step and extra sturdy ladder so you can get out of the water easily
  • Inside cabin and upstairs seating
Ocean Encounters Whale Watch Tour FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the Ocean Encounters whale-watching season operate?

The tour operates daily from mid-December through March, when humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii's warmer waters. Both morning and afternoon departures are offered during the season.

What other marine life might be seen during the cruise?

In addition to humpback whales, guests may spot spinner dolphins, Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine life along the Kona Coast. Wildlife sightings vary naturally and cannot be guaranteed on every trip.

What amenities are available aboard the Ocean Encounters vessel?

The 46-foot boat has shaded areas, an interior cabin, upstairs seating and a restroom. Light snacks, soda and water are included during the 2.5-hour cruise.

Special Instructions

Where and When
Tour times:
9:00 am - 11:30 am
1:00 pm to 3:30 pm
Check in 30 minutes prior to your tour time at Honokohau Harbor, 74-425 Kealakehe Prkwy #1, Kailua Kona, HI 96740 View Map

Directions for Honokohau Harbor & Check-In:
Honokohau Harbor is 5 miles south of Kona airport and 3-4 miles north of Kailua-Kona. At the traffic light intersection, take Kealakehe Parkway from the highway (Hwy 19) towards the ocean. You'll see the sailboat masts from the highway and there's a sign for Honokohau Harbor. Take that road lined with coconut palms and turn right at your first opportunity, then second left. Check in at the Bite Me Sportfishing charter desk.
Restrictions
There are no specific restrictions for this activity.
Operation Days
Daily from mid-December through March
Duration
2.5 hours

Ocean Encounters - Whale Watch Tour Prices

  • Per Adult (12 yrs+)
    $118.48 $102.00
    Per Child (2-11 yrs)
    $86.17 $70.00
    Per Infant (0-1 yrs)
    $64.63 $52.00

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