Kailua-Kona: Late Manta Snorkel Tour

Imagine floating in warm, calm waters as the night falls, watching gentle giants glide gracefully beneath you. For many travelers visiting Hawaii, snorkeling with manta rays tops the list of unforgettable marine encounters. This Late Manta Snorkel Tour in Kailua-Kona, offered by Torpedo Tours, is designed specifically for those who want to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat after sunset. The tour lasts about 2 hours, costs $129 per person, and promises a chance to witness one of Hawaii’s most awe-inspiring sights.

What we really like about this experience is the combination of expert guidance and the lighting setup that attracts plankton, drawing the mantas close to your view. The guides, like Ricky (from reviews), seem knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the evening feel safe and well-organized. Plus, the top-quality snorkeling gear provided ensures you’re equipped to enjoy the spectacle comfortably. One possible consideration is that the ride can be bouncy—so if you’re prone to seasickness or have back issues, it’s worth keeping that in mind.

This tour suits travelers who already have some snorkeling experience and are comfortable in the ocean. It’s particularly good for those eager to see marine wildlife in a dusk-to-night setting, making it a more unique alternative to daytime snorkeling trips. If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic adventure with gentle giants, this tour could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Unforgettable Nighttime Experience: snorkel with manta rays under the moonlit sky.
• Expert Guides: knowledgeable guides like Ricky ensure safety and enhance your understanding.
• Top-Notch Equipment: high-quality masks, snorkels, and fins provided for maximum comfort.
• Prime Locations: tour takes you to areas known for frequent manta ray sightings.
• All-Inclusive: bottled water, sodas, snacks included—just bring your swimsuit and towel.
• Limited to Active Swimmers: requires ability to swim 50 feet and climb a short ladder comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Kailua-Kona Late Manta Snorkel Tour is an adventure designed to fit into your evening plans, typically starting after sunset. You gather at Tiger Shark Deli—a convenient meeting point—and then hop onto a boat that will take you to prime manta observation spots. The boat ride itself is part of the experience; it’s often described as adventurous and sometimes bouncy, so prepare for an oceanic ride that’s a little lively.

Once at the designated site, the guides switch on underwater lights that attract plankton, and in turn, the manta rays. These creatures are gentle giants—some reaching wingspans of over 14 feet—that seem to dance effortlessly through the illuminated water. We loved the way the guides explained manta behavior and pointed out the different movements of these creatures, making the experience both educational and mesmerizing.

The 2-hour tour includes time for snorkeling, with all necessary gear provided, including masks, snorkels, and fins. The guides are attentive, helping with gear and offering safety instructions, which we appreciated. You’ll float on the surface, watching as the mantas glide close enough to see their mouths open and close as they feed. It’s a surreal sight—a real highlight for anyone who loves marine life.

The lighting setup is key to this experience. By illuminating the plankton, the lights draw the mantas close to the surface, creating a spectacle that’s both peaceful and thrilling. Many reviewers describe the experience as magical, with one noting, “Watching the mantas glide just inches from my face was unforgettable.” Others mention how calm and graceful these animals appear, making it a perfect activity for those seeking a peaceful yet awe-inspiring encounter.

What’s Included and What to Bring

Torpedo Tours provides all the essential gear—masks, snorkels, fins—along with snacks, sodas, and bottled water to keep you refreshed. They also supply biodegradable sunscreen, which is crucial for protecting Hawaii’s delicate environment. The only thing you need to bring is your swimwear, a change of clothes, a towel, and water. Remember, towels aren’t provided, so pack yours accordingly.

This tour is designed for active swimmers who can comfortably swim 50 feet and handle a short ladder to reboard the boat. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back or shoulder issues, or non-swimmers. The entire experience is built around being in the water, so some physical comfort and confidence are necessary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates marine mammals and enjoys evening adventures, this tour is likely to delight you. It’s perfect for those who already have some snorkeling experience and want to see something truly special—the graceful dance of manta rays in their natural environment. It’s also a good fit for travelers seeking an authentic and quiet experience, away from crowded daytime spots.

However, if you’re not comfortable in open water or have mobility issues, this might not be the best choice. The bouncy boat ride and the need for a short ladder climb could be a challenge. Still, for those who meet the criteria, the value of witnessing such a rare natural spectacle at night makes this a worthwhile splurge.

Final Thoughts

The Kailua-Kona Late Manta Snorkel Tour offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and natural beauty. It’s a relatively short tour, but one packed with memorable moments that stay with you long after your trip. The combination of expert guides, high-quality gear, and a carefully chosen location makes it stand out among Hawaii’s marine excursions.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want more than just a routine snorkel; it’s for those craving a peaceful yet exhilarating encounter with marine life. If you’re comfortable in the water and eager to see one of the ocean’s most enchanting sights, you’ll find this tour well worth the cost.

In all, the Late Manta Snorkel is a fantastic choice for those who want to add a magical, nighttime adventure to their Hawaii itinerary. It’s a chance to connect with nature in a profound way, in a setting that’s as beautiful as it is quietly powerful.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
No, this tour requires you to be able to swim at least 50 feet comfortably and handle climbing a short ladder. It’s best for those with some snorkeling experience.

What is included in the tour?
All necessary gear—masks, snorkels, fins—plus bottled water, sodas, and snacks are included. Towels are not provided, so bring your own.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Tiger Shark Deli in Kailua-Kona.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the evening after sunset.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the boat ride bouncy?
Yes, ocean conditions can make the ride lively. Be prepared for a bit of a bouncy experience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring swimwear, a towel, a change of clothes, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and anything else you might want for comfort.

Are pregnant women allowed?
No, this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, especially those more than 5 months pregnant.

What if I have back or shoulder issues?
It’s recommended that you avoid this tour if you have back, shoulder, or neck problems due to the physical nature of water activity and boat ride.

Is there a maximum group size?
While not specified, tours are generally designed for small groups to ensure a personal experience, guided by knowledgeable instructors like Ricky.

This Kailua-Kona Late Manta Snorkel Tour is a wonderful way to experience the magic of Hawaii’s marine life at night. It combines adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance to create memories that will stay with you long after you leave the island. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply love encounters with wildlife, this tour offers an authentic, breathtaking glimpse into the ocean’s gentle giants.

You can check availability for your dates here: