Hawaii Marine Life Charters — Attraction in Hawaii

We had the pleasure of experiencing two incredible tours with Hawaiian Marine Life Charters: the Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel and the Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour. Both were unforgettable and showed why this company deserves top marks for professionalism, knowledge, and passion for marine conservation.

Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel – 5/5

This was, hands down, one of the most magical experiences we’ve ever had. From the moment we arrived, the crew made us feel safe and welcome. After a short, smooth ride out to the manta ray site, we received a quick but thorough safety briefing. Once in the water, we floated on special light boards that attract plankton—and the manta rays followed.

Within minutes, these gentle giants were gliding inches beneath us. Some were over 12 feet across, flipping and dancing through the water with surreal grace. The guides were informative, sharing fascinating facts about each individual ray (yes, they know them by name!) and the efforts to protect them. The staff’s respect for the ocean and its creatures really stood out.

Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour – 5/5

This morning tour was equally impressive but in a different way. We cruised down the beautiful Kona coast while our guide pointed out lava tubes, sea caves, and historic landmarks. When we arrived at Kealakekua Bay, the water was incredibly clear—visibility was easily 100 feet.

The coral reef near the Captain Cook Monument is vibrant and teeming with life. We saw everything from colorful parrotfish and angelfish to a curious eel and even a pod of spinner dolphins on the way back. What sets Hawaiian Marine Life Charters apart is how well they balance fun with education. The guides are passionate, experienced, and eager to share the history of the area and tips on reef-safe snorkeling.

If you’re in Kona and looking for authentic, small-group marine adventures with a company that truly cares about the ocean, Hawaiian Marine Life Charters is it. The Manta Ray Snorkel is a must-do bucket list experience, and the Captain Cook Monument tour is the perfect way to explore one of Hawaii’s best...

Captain Brian took us (3 adults, one 6-year-old, non-swimmer) out to see the manta in early January 2024. We had an amazing experience. Captain Brian, and guide Bobby, shared lots of interesting information with us about the wildlife and the island on the way to the site. We took a break to catch the sunset and get some pictures. The boat and gear were clean and top-notch. The tour was great. Then we went to see the mantas. Bobby took us in the water. He was so competent, that I felt safe enough to have our six-year-old (non-swimmer) join us by laying on the surfboard. We saw such an amazing show, 5-6 mantas danced beside and below us. After about 30 minutes of enjoying the fish, we returned to the boat and took the voyage back. We loved it so much, we had to come back. We booked a second trip with Hawaii Marine Life Charters. I am so glad we did. We arrived a little earlier this time and departed early. This allowed us time to enjoy the sunset more and get a better position near the mantas. WHAT A SHOW! Our guide that night was Kelly. 6-8 mantas played right below us. Our surfboard was the center of the action. These enormous, gentle creatures swam up so close to us that one brushed me with its fin. They are such beautiful creatures, I could have watched them all night. They swam with us for a good 45 minutes. Our boat was one of the last to leave because these fish were really into our surfboard for whatever reason. This was a life-changing experience for me. DO NOT MISS THIS! Hawaii Marine Life Charters is one of the best ways to...

Short version: 10/10 stars!!! One of the best experiences of our lives!

Long version: You must swim with the manta rays! We saw a minimum of 10 different manta rays and they came right up to us floating in the water!! We got a 45 minute experience in the water (this is not the same with other companies)and we were out there the longest.

The most important part of this review is the staff and experience of this company. THIS is the company you must book with. With a maximum of 10 people per boat this is an exclusive experience. The provide you a complimentary wet suit, snorkel, and even have prescription goggles!! Finished with hot chocolate and cookies for the ride home!!

I cannot recommend this company enough. You will not regret this experience, and this is worth every dollar. They make everyone of all ages feel comfortable and there is always someone willing to take you back if you wish. We did the sunset time at 6:15pm and the boat ride there was spectacular (golden hour). We will be doing this...