Kailua-Kona: Late Manta Snorkel Tour

Trying to decide whether a nighttime manta ray experience is worth your time in Kailua-Kona? This tour with Torpedo Tours offers just that—an extraordinary chance to swim alongside these gentle giants under the cover of darkness. While we haven’t personally taken this specific trip, based on detailed reviews and the tour’s structure, it promises an authentic, awe-inspiring adventure that’s well worth considering for anyone craving a unique ocean encounter.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to snorkel at night creates a mystical atmosphere that’s hard to match. Second, the expert guides and top-tier snorkeling gear aim to ensure safety and comfort throughout. Third, the tour’s focus on natural habitat observation means you’re witnessing manta rays in their element, not in a zoo or tank.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour lasts only 2 hours, which is enough for a memorable experience but might feel brief for some. Also, the relatively price point of $129 per person reflects the specialized nature of the activity—it’s a premium experience, but one that many find worth the cost for the memories it creates.

This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers comfortable in the ocean, those with prior snorkeling experience, and anyone eager for a rare wildlife encounter. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or travelers with certain health concerns, but for those who meet the criteria, it offers a truly special perspective on Hawaii’s marine life.

Good To Know

• Unique Night Experience: Snorkeling with manta rays under moonlight is both enchanting and exclusive.
• Guided and Safe: Professional guides and quality equipment help maximize safety and enjoyment.
• Prime Location: Kailua-Kona is a renowned spot for manta encounters, with the tour visiting known hotspots.
• Limited Duration, High Impact: The two-hour window balances adventure with comfort, perfect for an evening activity.
• Includes Refreshments and Gear: Snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling essentials are provided, with optional extras like towels to bring.
• Not Suitable for Everyone: Pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with certain health issues should skip this to stay safe.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Tour

The Late Manta Snorkel Tour with Torpedo Tours in Kailua-Kona is designed to give you a nighttime adventure that’s both comfortable and authentic. The meeting point is at Tiger Shark Deli—an easy-to-find spot that makes check-in straightforward. After a brief safety briefing and gear distribution, you’ll board a boat that takes you to prime manta-ray viewing locations.

The tour generally runs in the evening, typically after sunset, when manta rays gather at feeding sites attracted by underwater lights. These lights are crucial—they draw plankton, which in turn attracts the mantas, creating an ideal viewing environment. Guests will be equipped with masks, snorkels, fins, and optional items like towels, although they should bring their own swimwear, water, and biodegradable sunscreen.

Once in the water, you’ll float and keep an eye out for the majestic manta rays gliding effortlessly beneath you. As the guides point out behaviors and help you spot the creatures, you’ll find yourself captivated by their grace and size, often moving in slow, mesmerizing motions. Several reviews mention how peaceful and gentle these creatures are, making the experience suitable even for those new to snorkeling.

The guides are experienced and well-versed in manta behavior, which helps in spotting and understanding these animals. Many guests have noted how informative guides like these add an educational layer to the adventure. They also ensure your safety, giving clear instructions on how to stay calm and avoid disturbing the animals.

The Itinerary in Detail

Arrival and Check-In:
Expect to meet at Tiger Shark Deli, where you’ll check in and gather your gear. The process is smooth and quick, with friendly staff guiding you through safety instructions and equipment fitting.

Boat Departure:
The boat ride is approximately 15-30 minutes to the snorkel sites. While some reviews mention the boat ride can be bouncy, everyone agrees that the serene, moonlit waters make up for it. The boat is typically equipped with underwater lights, which are key to attracting plankton and thus the mantas.

Snorkeling Time:
Once at the site, you’ll float on the surface with guides nearby. The actual snorkeling session lasts about an hour, during which you’ll be watching giant manta rays gracefully feed and glide. The water is calm, making it accessible even for those with prior snorkeling experience.

Return & Reflection:
After the snorkel, you’ll return to the boat, where snacks and drinks are available. Many guests report feeling an overwhelming sense of wonder and gratitude, often remarking on how surreal it was to see such majestic creatures up close.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $129, this tour provides more than just a swim—it’s an immersive wildlife experience. The inclusion of snacks, bottled water, and snorkeling gear makes it convenient, while the small group sizes (implied by the personalized approach of guides) enhance the feeling of intimacy.

Compared to daytime snorkels, this nighttime adventure offers a rare peek into the nocturnal behavior of manta rays, making it a unique add-on to any Hawaii itinerary. The professionalism of Torpedo Tours, combined with the prime location and stunning natural spectacle, justifies the premium price for many travelers.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers with prior snorkeling experience who want a memorable, one-of-a-kind encounter with marine life. It’s ideal for those seeking a peaceful yet exhilarating activity and who don’t mind being in open water at night.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with health issues involving the back, neck, or shoulders. Non-swimmers will find it challenging, so prior comfort with snorkeling is a must. If you’re looking for a romantic, bucket-list moment, or a unique family adventure, this tour could easily fit the bill.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Final Thoughts: Is the Late Manta Snorkel Tour Worth It?

This Kona-based night snorkeling adventure offers an exceptional way to see Hawaii’s marine life in action. The chance to swim alongside majestic manta rays in moonlit waters is an experience few travelers forget. The combination of professional guidance, quality gear, and prime locations ensures you’re in good hands.

While it’s a relatively short, 2-hour tour, the memories you’ll bring home—about the grace of these gentle giants and the thrill of sharing their world—are lasting. The fact that the tour is well-rated and includes practical amenities makes it a compelling choice for anyone with a sense of adventure and a love for marine wildlife.

If you’re after an authentic, awe-inspiring, and well-organized aquatic experience during your trip to Kailua-Kona, this tour deserves serious consideration.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, mainly in the evening after sunset, including check-in, the boat ride, snorkeling, and return.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price of $129 includes snorkeling gear (mask, snorkel, fins), bottled water, sodas, and snacks. Towels are not included, so bring your own if needed.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet at Tiger Shark Deli, a convenient and identifiable location for check-in and gear pickup.

Is the equipment provided good enough?
Yes, the tour offers top-notch snorkeling gear, ensuring a comfortable experience for swimmers familiar with snorkeling. Guides are on hand to help if needed.

Can I do this if I’ve never snorkeled before?
The tour is suited for those who have prior snorkeling experience and can swim at least 50 feet without assistance. It’s not recommended for complete beginners or non-swimmers.

What are the safety considerations?
Everyone must follow crew instructions, stay seated or hold onto railings during boat transit, and be comfortable in ocean conditions which can be bouncy. The guides are experienced and attentive.

Are there any health restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, people with back or neck issues, or anyone unable to climb a short ladder should avoid this activity for safety reasons.

To sum it up, the Kailua-Kona Late Manta Snorkel Tour offers a blend of adventure, comfort, and extraordinary wildlife encounters. It’s a standout choice for those who want to experience Hawaii’s waters in a uniquely peaceful yet exhilarating way—under the glow of the moon and surrounded by the gentle giants of the sea.

You can check if your dates are available here: