Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran from Kailua-Kona

Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, a day on the water with Body Glove Cruises offers a chance to see Hawaii’s marine life in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. This tour combines snorkeling, marine mammal sightings, and plenty of ocean fun on a comfortable, well-equipped vessel.

It’s a great way to enjoy the Kona coastline and its vibrant underwater world without the hassle of planning all the details yourself.

What really sets this cruise apart are two things: the quality of the food (both breakfast and lunch are included and well above typical cruise fare) and the variety of water activities like slides, jumping platforms, and paddleboards. The crew is widely praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, making even first-time snorkelers feel safe and comfortable.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—if the ocean’s rough or weather conditions aren’t ideal, the trip could be less enjoyable, and occasionally, trips are canceled for safety reasons.

This tour suits those who appreciate a relaxed, well-rounded experience with opportunities to see dolphins, enjoy good food, and partake in engaging water activities. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups looking for a lively, engaging day on the Big Island.

This experience made our article of Which Big Island of Hawaii Boat Tours & Cruises To Choose? Our Best 15 Picks.

Key Points

• Marine Sanctuary: Cruise through protected waters with a high chance of dolphin sightings.
• All-Inclusive: Included are breakfast, lunch, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks, offering great value.
• Water Fun: Features like a 20-foot waterslide, high jump, paddleboards, and noodles add excitement.
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with amenities like water showers and restrooms.
• Snorkeling Experience: About two hours in the water, with all gear provided—please bring your own towel.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Designed to accommodate all ages, with activities suited for kids and adults alike.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Boarding and Location

The adventure begins at Kailua Pier, with boarding starting 30 minutes before the scheduled 8:00 a.m. departure. The check-in process is straightforward—just arrive on time at the retail store at 75-5629 Kuakini Highway, which is about a one-minute walk from the pier. Parking is free, which offers a bit of peace of mind when you’re busy packing your gear and coffee.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise is around four and a half hours, with a focus on marine sanctuary waters along Kona’s coast. The first stop is at Body Glove Cruises, where you’ll cruise past Kona’s famous Gold Coast, enjoying vistas of volcanic coastline and ocean. The highlight here is the chance of dolphin sightings, which many guests swear is a true highlight. As one reviewer put it, “there’s an excellent chance of dolphin or other marine mammal sightings!”

Once at the snorkeling site—located in the Red Hill area—you’ll have about two hours of water time. The crew is known for their patience and friendly approach, especially with newcomers, and they provide sanitized masks, snorkels, and fins. Many rave about the abundance of fish and the variety of marine life, with one guest noting they saw “hundreds of fish, a few different types.”

Water Activities & Facilities

The boat itself is spacious, gorgeous, and clean—as several reviews mention—and offers ample amenities. You’ll find three restrooms, fresh water showers, and shaded areas to sit and relax. For the adventurous, the boat features a 20-foot waterslide, a 15-foot high jump platform, and paddleboards. These toys are perfect for kids and adults alike, adding an element of playful excitement.

The crew keeps safety a top priority, with detailed instructions on how to use the water toys and snorkel gear, making it easy for beginners to enjoy. As one reviewer mentioned, “they provided everything you need to comfortably snorkel and even gave a quick how-to class,” which helps those new to the water feel more confident.

Food & Drinks

The included island-style breakfast and BBQ lunch are surprisingly good, especially considering this is a cruise. Guests frequently mention the “delicious meals,” with a blueberry muffin and tasty burgers being favorites among reviewers. The premium cash bar offers plenty of non-alcoholic drinks and alcoholic beverages available for purchase, but the included meals make this a good value even for those who prefer to skip the drinks.

The reef-safe sunscreen provided is a thoughtful touch, protecting Hawaii’s delicate coral and marine environment. Guests can relax knowing they’re not harming the very creatures they’re snorkeling among.

Wildlife & Scenic Return

After your water adventure, the boat returns along the Kona coastline, offering breathtaking views of lava formations, lush hills, and the shimmering ocean. Many travelers comment on the beauty of the scenery and the chance to spot whales, dolphins, or even a double rainbow, which one guest described as “magical.”

Authentic Experience & Customer Feedback

From the positive reviews, it’s clear most guests find this tour offers exceptional value. Many mention that the crew is friendly, helpful, and attentive, with one guest noting, “they made delicious meals, always plenty for everyone.” Others highlight the diverse activities that keep both kids and adults entertained, making it a great choice for families.

However, not all experiences are perfect. A few reviews mention motion sickness due to rough waters, and one guest noted they couldn’t get a refund after canceling in advance because of illness. It’s worth noting that the tour is weather-dependent, so a rough day at sea could impact your fun. If seasickness is a concern, consider taking precautions or choosing a calmer day.

Price & Value

At $189.19 per person, this tour might seem on the pricier side, but considering all meals, gear, water toys, and wildlife sightings, many find it to be a good deal. The inclusion of meals and entertainment on a 4.5-hour trip adds to the overall value. Plus, the boat’s amenities, accessibility, and the chance to relax with a drink after snorkeling make it a well-rounded experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s perfect for families with kids, thanks to the water toys and inclusive atmosphere. Couples seeking a mix of adventure and scenic beauty will enjoy the relaxed pace and good food. First-time snorkelers will appreciate the crew’s patience, while those craving wildlife sightings will be delighted by the dolphins and other marine creatures. It’s also great for groups of friends or anyone wanting a lively, fun-filled day on the water.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that balances marine adventure, scenic vistas, and family-friendly fun. The quality of the included meals and amenities elevate it above many other snorkeling tours, making it a true value proposition for anyone who appreciates good food and comfortable surroundings. The ability to see dolphins and enjoy water toys adds a memorable dimension that keeps guests returning.

While weather can impact the experience, most reviews highlight happy, satisfied guests who leave with great stories and plenty of photos. If you’re looking for an active, scenic, and sociable way to experience Kona’s waters—especially if you enjoy a good meal and some fun toys—this tour will serve you well.

Ideal for families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone who loves a lively day on the ocean with a friendly crew and beautiful scenery. Just remember to bring your own towel, and be prepared for a fantastic adventure that balances adventure, relaxation, and a touch of Hawaiian hospitality.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age for this tour?
Children 18 and younger must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with kids of all ages.

What should I bring?
Bring your own towel, and don’t forget sunscreen—reef-safe is provided—and your swimsuits. The crew provides snorkel gear, but towels are your responsibility.

Can I purchase alcohol during the trip?
Yes, alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the premium cash bar, but non-alcoholic drinks and meals are included in the price.

How long is the snorkeling time?
You’ll have approximately two hours of water time, with all gear provided, giving ample opportunity to explore and see marine life.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility challenges?
Yes, the vessel is 100% wheelchair accessible, and facilities include showers and restrooms.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent—if conditions are unsafe, it may be canceled or rescheduled, with options for a full refund or a different date.

In all, this Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch tour combines the best of what the Big Island has to offer: stunning scenery, lively marine life, delicious food, and plenty of water fun. It’s an adventure that’s hard to beat for those wanting a memorable day in paradise.