ECOLOGICAL CONSERVATION

Protecting the coral reefs of the Big Island

The Big Island is arguably home to the world's most dramatic and richly varied marine ecosystems. From the lava rock shores of the Kona Coast to the protected sanctity of Kealakekua Bay, there truly is no where else on Earth that offers the incredible experiences our island provides, including vivid coral reefs, speedy spinner dolphins, serene green sea turtles (honu) and incredible mantas, just to name a few.

Unfortunately, with nature's abundance comes responsibility. As the top Big Island snorkeling tour company, we know that an incredible ocean adventure is inextricably linked to marine eco-conservation.

Why Big Island Reef Conservation Matters

A healthy, functioning nearshore ecosystem is essential for the well-being of Hawaii. Coral reefs are vital to shallow water ecosystems. They are a nursery for hundreds of different reef fish species endemic to the islands, and our protect our coastline against erosion. Unfortunately these precious habitats are still under threat from climate change, warming sea temperatures and local human stress.

Coral bleaching, damage by people, and pollution from everyday use sunscreens all affect individual live coral polyps. It's a truly living, breathing organism, that operators, guides, and customers can all influence positively.

OUR COMMITMENT TO CONSERVATION

Environmental consciousness and protecting our marine environments is fundamental to everything we do. Responsible tourism is an integral part of our everyday activities and is embedded throughout.

Required Reef-Safe practices: We only allow (and supply) mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Because chemical UV blockers (like oxybenzone and octinoxate) have been shown to cause DNA damage in corals, and reproductive disruptions in marine animals, we will not have those present in our waters.

Wildlife Rules are in Place: Seeing Hawaii's ocean animals is our goal, but the priority will always remain with the safety of each marine species. The naturalists and captains of this tour strictly follow the State and Federal rules and give ample distance to spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, humpback whales. It's the "look-don't-touch" method. Guests are not allowed to pursue, touch, or harass marine life.

Understanding and Protecting Coral & Buoyancy: All guests are given a thorough briefing on the guidelines and proper ways to snorkel. We educate our guests on how damaging it is to touch, stand on, or kick with fins coral structures, especially when coral grows and accumulates only an inch in decades.

Marine Debris Cleanups: Even after your tour is complete, we endeavor to do more. Our team regularly joins coastal and underwater cleanups to collect marine debris, old fishing tackle and plastic waste-all of which present an imminent deadly threat to fish, seabirds and other marine animals.

How You Can Be an Ocean Steward

Conservation is a community effort, and we travelers are a part of it. Supporting tour operators that care for the environment through the preservation of the habitats and marine species of Hawaii when on vacation on the Big Island has an impact.

By choosing a tour that not only takes you snorkeling but educates on the important conservation role played by businesses in keeping the waters off the Kona coast pristine and protected-it makes a difference.

We can’t wait to share it with you in an environmentally conscious and loving way. It will help keep the blue water of Big Island healthy forever.

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