Discover Kona’s Underwater Treasures with a Private Super-Raft Snorkel Tour

A four-hour private snorkeling adventure on the Big Island offers a perfect blend of comfort, excitement, and authentic marine exploration. For about $3,090 per group—meaning your family or group of friends—you’ll set sail aboard a 41-foot Super-Raft with experienced guides leading the way. This tour is tailored specifically for those craving a more intimate, personalized experience, with the chance to explore two exclusive snorkeling spots along Kona’s coast, not accessible to larger tour boats. We loved how the vessel’s speed—over 30 mph—allowed us to reach farther, less crowded sites, while the cushioned seats and onboard restroom made the journey comfortable for all ages.

What really stands out is the family-friendly approach, suitable for children aged 6 and above, and the included amenities like a delicious picnic lunch and unlimited soft drinks. The tour’s expert guides in the water are another highlight—they help you discover vibrant marine life safely, heightening the sense of adventure. One potential consideration: this experience isn’t suitable for those with back or neck issues, pregnant women, or children under 6, so it’s best to check your group’s health and age before booking.

If your family or group loves the water and you’re eager for a guided, private experience instead of a crowded tour, this trip offers excellent value. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate comfort during adventure and want a more exclusive, personalized outing.

Key Points

Private, customizable experience suited for up to 24 guests, ensuring intimacy and flexibility.
Two exclusive snorkeling spots that are less accessible to larger tours, offering unique marine encounters.
Comfortable vessel with cushioned seats, shade, onboard restroom, and storage—perfect for families or comfort-conscious travelers.
Expert guides in the water enhance safety and help you spot marine life like dolphins and whales.
All-inclusive amenities such as picnic lunch, reef-safe sunscreen, snacks, and unlimited drinks add convenience and value.
Age restriction of 6 and older, making it a family-friendly choice, but not suitable for very young children or those with certain health issues.

An In-Depth Look at the Super Raft Kona Snorkel Tour

Planning more time in Big Island of Hawaii? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

This private four-hour adventure begins at the Kailua-Kona pier around 8:30 am, giving you a relaxed start to what promises to be an exciting day. The boat, a sturdy 41-foot Super-Raft, is designed with comfort and speed in mind. It can reach speeds in excess of 30 mph, allowing you to cover more ground and reach destinations that are typically off-limits to larger, slower boats. This means fewer crowds and a more relaxed, personalized experience.

The tour includes two stops along the historical Kona Coast, a stretch renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life. While the itinerary specifically mentions Kailua-Kona and Kailua Pier, the real treasure lies beneath the surface—vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and the chance to spot dolphins or even whales if you’re lucky.

The Snorkeling Experience: What You’ll See and Do

Once anchored at each site, your guides help you put on snorkeling equipment—all provided and reef-safe—and give a brief safety overview. As you float over the reefs, you’ll love the vivid colors of the coral and the diversity of marine creatures just a few feet below the surface. The guides are experienced and enthusiastic, often pointing out interesting species and sharing insights about the underwater environment.

Reviews from previous travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides as a major plus—they’re attentive, friendly, and eager to enhance your experience. One traveler remarked, “The guides really made the difference—they explained everything clearly and made us feel safe in the water.”

Comfort and Convenience Onboard

What sets this tour apart from standard group excursions is the attention to comfort. The vessel is equipped with cushioned seating, shade, and a restroom—luxuries on a sea adventure. The onboard storage keeps your belongings safe, and the unlimited soft drinks keep you refreshed after snorkeling or during transit between sites.

Food and Refreshments

A delicious picnic lunch is included, featuring locally inspired fare to keep your energy up. Plus, snacks, water, and soft drinks are available throughout the trip. The inclusion of reef-safe sunscreen also helps protect Hawaii’s delicate marine environment while keeping you from getting sunburned.

While you're exploring Big Island of Hawaii, here are other experiences we've looked into

Who Will Love This Tour

This private adventure is perfect for families with children aged 6 and above who want a more personalized experience. Because it’s private, you won’t find yourself crowded with strangers—making it ideal for groups celebrating special occasions or just seeking a tranquil escape. It’s also suited for travelers who value comfort, safety, and expert guidance in their marine adventures.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing: At over $3,000 for the group, this tour is an investment, but it reflects the exclusivity, tailored service, and amenities offered. When split among family or friends, the cost per person can be quite reasonable.
Duration: Four hours is a sweet spot—long enough to visit two sites but not so long as to be tiring, especially for children.
Booking Notice: Book about two months in advance as this experience is popular, with an average booking lead time of 64 days.
Physical Fitness: Moderate fitness is recommended—swimming ability is required since you’ll be snorkeling, but no previous experience is necessary.
Limitations: Not suitable for those with back, neck, or pregnancy issues, or children under 6.
Transportation: Guests need to arrange their own transport to Kailua Kona pier, as this tour does not include hotel pick-up.
Weather Dependence: The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor conditions.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Get the Most From This Adventure

This private Super-Raft snorkel tour caters best to travelers who prioritize comfort, personalized service, and a curated marine experience. If your family or group values exclusivity, an intimate setting, and the chance to explore less crowded reefs, this is a strong pick. The knowledgeable guides make a noticeable difference, especially if you’re new to snorkeling or traveling with kids who might need extra reassurance.

For anyone seeking a more relaxed, high-quality alternative to crowded boat tours, this adventure hits the mark. It’s especially appealing to those who want to combine thrilling speed with the tranquility of the underwater world, all with plenty of amenities for comfort and convenience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only children aged 6 and older can participate. The tour is family-friendly, provided your kids meet the age and health requirements.

Does the tour include transportation from my hotel?
No, guests need to travel to the Kailua Kona pier on their own; hotel pick-up is not available.

What should I bring?
You’ll need to bring your own towel. The tour includes snorkeling gear, but you might want to bring a hat, sunglasses, or reef-safe sunscreen for extra protection.

Can I cancel if the weather looks bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance or if the tour is canceled due to poor weather.

What is included in the price?
Your cost covers the private charter, snorkeling equipment, a picnic lunch, snacks, soft drinks, reef-safe sunscreen, and a friendly guide.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, those with back or neck problems, pregnant women, or children under 6 are not permitted due to the physical demands and safety considerations.

How fast does the raft go?
The Super-Raft can reach over 30 mph, allowing for quick access to more remote snorkel sites.

Is prior snorkeling experience necessary?
No, guides will assist and give instructions, making this accessible even to first-timers.

In the end, this private Kona snorkeling tour balances adventure, comfort, and exclusivity. It’s a superb choice for those wanting a memorable, tailored marine experience with added amenities and expert guidance—perfect for families and small groups looking for something special on their Big Island trip.