Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel (Manta Guarantee Policy)

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel (Manta Guarantee Policy)

Imagine slipping into the warm Hawaiian waters after sunset, the only light coming from your boat’s powerful beams, and suddenly you’re surrounded by graceful, glowing manta rays. For $95 per person, this 80-minute nighttime snorkeling tour offers a chance to swim among these gentle giants in a setting that feels both intimate and exhilarating. The tour departs from Kailua-Kona, with a maximum of just 14 guests, a big plus in a sea of larger, crowded boats.

What we particularly love about this experience is its focus on personalized attention and better chances of manta sightings. Their Manta Guarantee Policy offers reassurance—if no mantas are seen, you can try again at no extra cost, either later the same night or on another visit. Plus, they only spend 3 minutes on the boat ride to the site, compared to other operators who take up to 30 minutes. And with 144,000 lumens of light powering the boat’s illumination, your chances of attracting mantas are significantly increased.

A potential consideration? The uncertainty of wild animals. As with all outdoor nature encounters, sightings are not guaranteed, an aspect acknowledged openly by the operators and reflected in reviews. This tour is best suited for travelers who value a small-group experience and are okay with the natural unpredictability of wildlife.

This snorkel adventure is ideal for those seeking a more intimate connection with Hawaiian marine life, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and a quiet, less crowded environment. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to combine comfort with authenticity, and who are comfortable in open water at night.

Key Points

• Small group size: Only 14 guests, providing a more personal and less crowded experience.
• Fast boat ride: A short 3-minute boat trip minimizes transit time, maximizing time in the water.
• High-powered lighting: 144,000 lumens of light help attract manta rays, increasing your chances of sightings.
• Manta Guarantee Policy: If no mantas are seen, you can return later the same night or on your next visit at no extra cost.
• Professional crew: Guides, captains, and lifeguards are present to ensure safety and provide valuable information.
• Flexibility & value: Reserve now and pay later, with full refund options if canceled 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel Experience

The Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Once you arrive at 78-7100 Kaleiopapa Street — a straightforward location with clear instructions to arrive at least 20 minutes early — you’re welcomed by the friendly crew and led to the Tall White Rental Wetsuit Van across from the Outrigger Resort & Spa. Parking can be tight, so arriving early to find street parking (avoiding the trailer stalls) is wise. The check-in process is simple, and staff are helpful, ensuring everyone is prepared for their night in the water.

After check-in, you’ll be directed to the boat ramp where the crew will meet you. The boat itself is modest in size but equipped with 144,000 lumens of dive light power, which is significantly brighter than most other boats. This extra brightness is a notable advantage because it helps attract more manta rays to the vicinity, boosting your chances of a memorable encounter.

The boat ride to the manta ray site is surprisingly quick—only about 3 minutes—compared to other tours that spend up to 30 minutes on the water. This short transit means more time snorkeling, which in this case, generally lasts around 20-30 minutes. The crew, including guides and lifeguards, are attentive and helpful, offering tips and ensuring safety in these open waters.

The Nighttime Snorkel: An Ethereal Encounter

Once at the site, the real magic begins. Under the cover of darkness, illuminated by the boat’s powerful lights, manta rays are drawn close, often feeding just beneath the surface. You’ll be floating in the water with a mask and snorkel, trying to spot these majestic creatures gliding silently by. The experience is both peaceful and awe-inspiring, especially given the absence of other boats or crowds.

Many reviews highlight the stunning views and the kindness of guides, making the experience feel both safe and special. For example, one reviewer from Switzerland noted, “Swimming with manta rays is a magical experience, but what really made the difference was the kindness and friendliness of the staff.” This personal touch often turns an ordinary activity into a memorable adventure.

The Manta Guarantee Policy: Peace of Mind

What sets this company apart is their Manta Guarantee Policy. If no mantas are seen during your tour, you’re eligible to try again later that same night without extra charge, or on a future visit, depending on availability. This policy is a reflection of their confidence in maximizing your chances, given the natural unpredictability of wild animals.

However, it’s important to remember that, as with all wildlife encounters, sightings are not 100% guaranteed. Some guests have expressed disappointment when no mantas appear. Still, they emphasize that the guided experience, the small group size, and the powerful lighting make this tour a strong contender for a successful night.

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Wetsuit & Equipment Rentals

While the tour includes a mask and snorkel, wetsuits and life jackets are available for rent during check-in. Given the temperature of Hawaiian waters at night, bringing your own wetsuit or renting one on-site can enhance comfort. The crew is accommodating, helping you find the right gear for your needs.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive early to secure parking and complete check-in smoothly.
• Bring swimwear and be prepared for water at night, including possibly renting a wetsuit.
• Understand the wildlife nature of the tour: sightings can’t be guaranteed, but the experience itself is often memorable.
• The tour is not suitable for people over 80 years or over 280 lbs (127 kg), due to safety or comfort considerations.
• Language: The guides speak English, so communication should be straightforward.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkel trip appeals most to travelers who value small-group experiences and are keen on up-close encounters with marine life. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable in water at night and appreciate the chance to see rare, glowing manta rays in a peaceful setting. The knowledgeable guides and emphasis on safety make it perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet adventurous evening.

Those who are wary of large crowds or who prefer a more personalized experience will find this tour especially appealing. It’s also well-suited for visitors who want a high likelihood of manta sightings thanks to the powerful lighting and quick transit to the site.

However, if you are traveling with very young children, seniors over 80, or individuals with mobility concerns, you might want to check directly with the provider about suitability.

The Sum Up

This Kona nighttime manta snorkel tour offers a balanced mix of personalized service, safety, and natural wonder, all wrapped into a compact 80-minute experience. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the powerful lighting maximizes your chances of witnessing these gentle giants glide past you in the dark. The Manta Guarantee Policy adds a layer of reassurance, making this a smart choice for those wanting a genuine opportunity to see Hawaii’s iconic marine residents.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the thoughtful approach of this tour—short boat ride, knowledgeable guides, and high-powered lights—makes it stand out. It’s best suited for travelers who seek an authentic, intimate, and well-organized adventure in the waters off Kona, and who are okay with some unpredictability inherent in nature-based experiences.

If you love marine life, quiet nights on the water, and small-group camaraderie, this tour could well become one of your favorite Hawaii memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally designed for adults and children over a certain age, with safety considerations in mind. Check directly with the provider if you are bringing children to confirm suitability.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, the tour provides masks and snorkels. Wetsuits and life jackets are available for rent during check-in if desired.

What happens if no manta rays are seen?
The tour offers a Manta Guarantee Policy. If no mantas are spotted, you can try again later the same night or on your next visit, depending on availability.

How long is the boat ride to the site?
The boat ride lasts about 3 minutes, significantly shorter than other tours, giving you more time in the water.

How long do the snorkeling sessions last?
Snorkeling typically lasts around 20-30 minutes, but this can vary based on conditions and wildlife activity.

Is the tour accessible for people over 80 or with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those over 80 years old or over 280 lbs (127 kg). Contact the provider for specific concerns.

What should I bring to the tour?
Bring swimwear, and consider renting a wetsuit for comfort. It’s also advisable to arrive early to check in and find parking.

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

This tour offers a genuine shot at one of Hawaii’s most magical underwater sights in a setting that’s both intimate and well-organized. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the experience of gliding alongside glowing manta rays in Kona’s night waters is bound to be a highlight of any trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: