Late Night Manta Snorkel

The Late Night Manta Snorkel: A Unique Underwater Adventure on Hawaii’s Big Island

If you’re visiting Hawaii’s Big Island, chances are you’re eager to see its world-famous marine life. Among the many memorable experiences, a night snorkel with manta rays ranks high—especially for those seeking something truly extraordinary. This tour, offered by Kona Style, takes you out on a 50-foot catamaran along the Kona coast, where wild manta rays come to feed under the cover of darkness. The cost is around $137.79 per person, and with an average booking lead time of 48 days, it’s clear this is a popular choice for travelers planning well in advance.

What we love about this experience is how it combines stunning views of Kailua town’s skyline with the thrill of getting so close to these gentle giants. The bar onboard adds a relaxing touch, letting you sip a hot drink or purchase a cocktail as you cruise back at night. The snorkeling equipment and safety instructions provided make it accessible for most, yet the true highlight is the rare opportunity to see up to a dozen manta rays doing what they do best—feeding inches from your face.

One thing to consider is that this tour requires strong swimming skills—you’ll need to be comfortable in open water and know how to snorkel without assistance. It’s not suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, and children under 5 are not allowed in the water. But for adventurous travelers who want an authentic, close-up encounter with marine life, this trip is hard to beat.

This tour suits those who love nighttime adventures, are comfortable in the water, and are eager for a unique Hawaii experience. It’s especially good for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate small, well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides.

Key Points

• Unparalleled manta ray encounters in their natural habitat during the night.
• Comfortable catamaran with onboard bar, offering a relaxing atmosphere.
• All snorkeling gear and safety briefings included, making it accessible for confident swimmers.
• Stunning night views of Kailua town as you cruise back.
• Limited to strong swimmers; not suitable for children under 5 or non-swimmers.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

An In-Depth Look at the Late Night Manta Snorkel Experience

A Perfect Setting for Nighttime Marine Encounters

Imagine leaving the bright lights of Kailua-Kona behind as you drift into dark waters aboard a 50-foot catamaran. From the moment you step on board, you’re greeted by professional crew members eager to ensure your safety and enjoyment. The trip begins with a cruise along the Kona coast, where the waters are known for their healthy plankton populations—an essential ingredient for attracting manta rays.

The sight of Kailua town’s twinkling skyline from the water is a treat in itself. The boat ride lasts roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes, providing plenty of time to relax, socialize, and prepare for the main event—snorkeling with the night-feeding mantas.

The Scenic Commute to Manta Ray Village

The journey takes you to Manta Ray Village, a well-known spot where these gentle giants gather in large numbers. During the cruise, you can enjoy complimentary bottled water, soft drinks, and juices. A hot cocoa or hot tea with cookies is also served, helping to warm you up before you enter the water. As one reviewer notes, “The crew did an excellent job. They were knowledgeable, friendly, and professional,” setting the tone for a safe, enjoyable night.

Safety and Preparation: What to Expect

Before the snorkel, the crew provides a comprehensive safety briefing. If you’re a confident swimmer who knows how to snorkel without flotation devices, you’re all set. The activity begins with everyone holding onto a light-board that attracts plankton—the manta rays’ favorite snack. This setup keeps you relatively stationary, so it’s more about observing than swimming long distances.

Authentic quotes from participants emphasize the magic: “You stay in one place holding on to a light-board. The light attracts plankton and the manta rays come to eat the plankton. You are inches away from these gentle giants as they feed.” Others mention how close they got—“they did over 50 passes within inches,” which is an experience unlike any other.

Encounters with Manta Rays: Close and Personal

The reviews frequently mention the impressive size and grace of the mantas, with some saying, “they were huge and came so close to us.” Seeing these massive creatures feed just inches away, with their wingspan spanning several feet, creates a feeling of being part of a living underwater ballet.

Participants often comment on how friendly and calm the mantas are—no teeth, no aggression—just curious, gentle giants. Many reviews highlight the number of rays seen, with reports of over 20 rays and countless passes. As one reviewer puts it, “The mantas were out in full force and we even saw a couple bottlenose dolphins,” adding an extra layer of excitement.

Post-Snorkel Relaxation and Reflection

Back on the boat, after the adrenaline rush, you can enjoy hot cocoa and hot tea while soaking in the spectacular night views of Kona. Many reviewers express how surprised and amazed they were by how close and majestic the mantas are—calling it “the highlight of our trip.” The small group size and knowledgeable crew contribute significantly to the quality of the experience, making it feel intimate and personal.

Practical Aspects: What You Need to Know

• Price and Value: At less than $140, the tour offers excellent value considering how unique and memorable the encounter is. All taxes, fees, and equipment are included, so no surprises.
• Group Size: Limited to 36 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable.
• Timing: Guests are asked to check in 45 minutes early at their Kailua-Kona shop, with parking available nearby—costs about $13 at the Courtyard Marriott.
• Physical Requirements: This tour is best suited for strong swimmers who are comfortable in open water. Children under 5 are not allowed in the water, and guests over 300 lbs are restricted due to equipment weight limits.
• Weather Dependency: The tour is weather-dependent—if the ocean is rough or conditions are poor, it may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds available if that happens.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Praise

Feedback from travelers shows consistent satisfaction, with comments like “We had an epic experience,” and “Absolutely fantastic—would recommend it to anyone.” Several reviews highlight the crew’s expertise and friendliness, which help to build trust and excitement. Many travelers also appreciate the authenticity of seeing the rays in their natural environment, rather than in a tank or artificial setting.

Why Choose This Tour?

This night snorkel with manta rays appeals to adventure-seekers and marine life lovers alike. If you’re comfortable in the water and want a close-up encounter with one of Hawaii’s most iconic creatures, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. It’s especially suited for travelers who prioritize authentic wildlife encounters over artificial or staged attractions.

The small group setting and professional crew ensure safety and intimacy, making it ideal for couples or small groups. Also, if you’re looking for a nighttime activity that combines scenery, excitement, and a chance to see Hawaii’s **”gentle giants”, this is hard to beat.

The Sum Up

For those willing to swim confidently in open water and seek a truly memorable experience, the Late Night Manta Snorkel on the Big Island offers a rare chance to witness one of nature’s most captivating spectacles. The combination of a scenic boat ride, expert guides, and the thrill of being inches from these beautiful, graceful creatures makes it a highlight of any Hawaii trip.

If you value authentic encounters and unforgettable wildlife moments, this tour delivers in spades. The stunning views, friendly crew, and close-up manta ray sightings ensure it’s worth every penny. It’s best suited for travelers who are physically capable and eager to explore Hawaii’s marine life after dark—an adventure you’ll talk about for years.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not allowed in the water, and all participants must be strong swimmers who know how to snorkel independently.

What should I bring?
Guests need to bring their own towels. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you might want to bring a waterproof camera, a hat, or a light jacket for comfort.

Can I purchase alcoholic drinks?
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard, but they are not included in the price.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled due to weather or other reasons, a different date or a full refund will be offered.

Are full-face snorkel masks allowed?
No, full-face snorkel masks are not permitted on this tour.

How many people typically go on this tour?
The maximum group size is 36 travelers, helping keep the experience personal and relaxed.

Is parking available?
Yes, discounted self-parking is available at the Courtyard Marriott for $13. and guests should remember to bring their parking ticket.

What if I don’t know how to snorkel?
This tour is not recommended for non-swimmers or those not comfortable with snorkeling in open water.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled, with full refunds offered.

How long does the experience last?
The entire activity lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, including the cruise, snorkeling, and return trip.

This night with the manta rays is a top-tier adventure for travelers craving Hawaii’s authentic marine wildlife experience in a safe and friendly setting. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a curious explorer, it offers a rare glimpse into the underwater world that makes the Big Island so special.