WITNESS THE MAJESTIC HUMPBACK WHALES
When winter arrives in the Pacific, so do humpback whales. From December through April, thousands of humpback whales migrate from their feeding grounds to the warm waters of Hawaii, where they come to breed, give birth, and raise their calves.
Join us for a scenic cruise along the sun-soaked volcanic Kona Coast as we search for humpback whales in their natural habitat. With a small group and flexible itinerary, we can follow wildlife activity and spend time observing these incredible animals when conditions are right.
Watch for breathtaking behaviors such as breaches, tail slaps, and spy hops. Along the way, our crew will share fascinating insights about the whales and their annual migration. You’ll also have the opportunity to listen to their complex songs through our onboard underwater hydrophone.
Join us this winter for an unforgettable day on the water and the chance to experience Hawaii’s humpback whales up close in their natural environment.
HUMPBACK WHALE SEASON
Generally, whale watching season in Hawaii is December to April, with the absolute height of excitement from January to March. Plan your trip so you have the optimal experience.
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Early Arrivals (November-December): The advance guard of the migration start to arrive in late autumn, and while they may be few and far between in the early days, it takes just a bit of patience to see the first, highly energetic male scouting ahead of the swarm.
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Humpback Season (Jan- Mar): This is the BEST time to whale watch on the Big Island as there are more whales here now than any other time. During these months, it is HIGHLY probable that you'll also experience advanced whale behavior such as competitive pods and awesome breaches.
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Mother and Baby (March-April): By March many of the males are on their way back North, which gives moms and babies a chance to show off what they can do.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Light snacks will be provided. You're also welcome to bring your own food and drinks on board.
WHAT WE SUGGEST YOUR BRING
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A reusable water bottle. Help us cut down on single-use plastic that pollutes our ocean by bringing your own water bottle to stay hydrated.
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Reef safe sunscreen: protect your skin and our reef!
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Hat / sunglasses. Our boat has shade, but extra sun protection in the strong Hawaiian sun is always a good idea.
Duration: 2 hours
Ages: All Ages
Departure Location: Honokohau Small Boat Harbor in Kona, Hawaii
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TIPS FOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE
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Book a tour early in your trip: Booking early in your stay will ensure you have a "rain day" buffer of dates. If conditions force a cancellation, we will reschedule the tour within the following days.
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Dress in layers: While the Hawaiian sun is warm, ocean winds can feel brisk when the boat is moving. Bring a light windbreaker or jacket.
WHY IS THE BIG ISLAND A PREMIERE DESTINATION FOR WHALE WATCHING?
Though they visit the entire Hawaiian island chain, watching whales off the western coast of the Big Island is particularly breathtaking.
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Protected Leeward Waters: Mother humpback whales visit these waters to give birth and nurse their young in a safe, calm environment. Along the Kona coast, both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa block the trade winds, keeping waters along Kona and Kohala calm and flat as glass.
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Rich Pelagic and Seamount Life: Attracted by the deep underwater shelves and large pelagic zones around the island, whales arrive in record numbers off the coasts of Hawaii, offering exciting (and numerous) surface sightings from January through March.
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Historically-Rooted Traditions: Whales are ingrained in Hawaiian natural and physical history. On the Kohala coast a historically protected religious site, Puʻukoholā Heiau, or “hill of the whale, ” acts as a lookout where ancient Hawaiians viewed and observed, or watched for the arrival of the koholā.
WHALE BEHAVIORS TO LOOK FOR ON YOUR TOUR
Part of the thrill of going on a professional whale watching tour is seeing the movements and behavior of the humpback whales in their natural habitat. Our guides will point out:
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The Breach: It is surely the most spectacular act in all of nature. A whale throws almost its whole huge body into the air, then crashes backwards back into the water. Is this how they talk, get rid of parasites, play or just plain fun? Researchers still don't know.
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Pec Slap & Tail Slapping: Whales lift their enormous 15-foot pectoral fins or huge tails up into the air and hit the water several times, releasing their fins or tails with a distinct smacking noise that can be heard throughout the bay.
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Spyhopping: a whale will rise perpendicular through the water, often up to its chin, to view the world above. It’s very curious about what is near and people out on boats watching it.
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Blow (Spout): The vertical plume of moist, warm air released from the humpbacks' lungs when it comes up for a breath can be as tall as 15ft. This plume is the signature given off for spotters several miles away that a whale has surfaced.