Wake up with the Whales Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor

Traveling to the Big Island of Hawaii and dreaming of spotting marine giants? The Wake up with the Whales Cruise offers a chance to see Humpback Whales during their peak season from a comfortable and spacious catamaran. With a stellar 5.0 rating and insights from travelers, this tour promises a memorable encounter with nature’s gentle giants—plus plenty of educational and fun moments along the way.

What draws us to this experience? First, the guarantee of whale sightings means you’re not just hoping for a glimpse—you’re almost assured of seeing these majestic creatures. Second, the naturalist onboard enhances the trip with expert interpretation, making the experience both entertaining and educational. Third, the chance to listen to whale songs via the hydrophone makes it feel like you’re eavesdropping on a secret marine concert—something truly special.

A potential consideration? The weather dependency for deploying the hydrophone means that sometimes the sound experience might be limited. Also, with a maximum of 65 travelers, it’s not an ultra-intimate tour but a comfortable group size that balances social vibe and personal space.

This cruise is perfect for families, solo travelers, or couples who want a balanced mix of adventure, education, and wildlife observation. If you’re eager to witness the iconic humpback spectacle in Hawaii, this tour likely suits your needs well.

Good To Know

• Guaranteed whale sightings or return for free until you see whales
• Expert naturalists provide insightful interpretation during the cruise
• Hydrophone audio offers a rare chance to listen to whale songs
• Comfortable, stable catamaran suitable for all ages and seas
• Affordable price point at $125 per person considering the value of experiences
• Flexible cancellation policy for peace of mind

In-Depth Look at the Wake up with the Whales Cruise

What to Expect from the Tour

This 1 hour 30-minute cruise begins early in the morning at 8:00 am, a time chosen to maximize your chances of whale activity during their breeding season. Departing from Kawaihae Harbor, the boat heads into open waters where humpbacks are most active, often feeding, breaching, or singing.

The boat itself is described as stable and spacious, making it accessible and comfortable especially for those prone to seasickness. With a maximum capacity of 65 travelers, there’s enough room for everyone to enjoy the view without feeling crowded.

The Whale Guarantee

One of the standout features is the “best guarantee on the island”—if you don’t see whales, you can simply return for free, with no limits. This policy underscores the confidence the operator has in the timing and success of their excursions. According to a recent review, the crew’s dedication is evident, with travelers noting that they saw several whales in the distance, despite the elusive nature of these gentle giants.

Guided by Naturalists

The onboard naturalist guide is highly trained, bringing a wealth of knowledge about humpback behavior, migration patterns, and vocalizations. From a review, we learn that the naturalists do a super informative job, sharing details about whale behavior and what to look for—a real plus for those wanting to learn as they watch. The crew’s passion and expertise elevate the trip from a simple boat ride to an immersive wildlife experience.

Listening to Whale Songs

Weather permitting, the hydrophone is deployed into the water, allowing passengers to hear the haunting songs of humpbacks. This feature, often cited as a highlight, offers a rare auditory window into whale communication. Several reviews mention how special it was to listen to the melodies, even though sometimes weather conditions or whale positioning might limit the sound quality.

Snacks, Beverages, and Atmosphere

Included in the price are soda, snacks, and alcoholic beverages, making the cruise more enjoyable and relaxed. The availability of drinks and snacks ensures you can sit back and soak in the scenery without worry. The overall atmosphere is described as friendly and informative, with staff eager to answer questions and share their love for marine life.

Practical Details and Booking

Starting at $125 per person, this tour is priced competitively considering the quality of experience and the naturalist-guided commentary. The average booking window of 19 days in advance suggests it’s popular and well-organized. Most travelers will find this price reflects good value, especially given the guarantee and unique features like listening to whales.

Cancellation and Weather Considerations

The tour offers full free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing reassurance if your plans change. Since the experience depends on good weather, poor conditions may lead to rescheduling or refund, but this policy ensures you’re protected against disappointment.

Why This Tour Works Well

If you’re someone who values guidance and education, the naturalist-led commentary turns a simple wildlife cruise into an insightful lesson. For those who love audio experiences, the hydrophone adds a magical element. And if your main goal is seeing humpbacks, the guarantee means you’re not just taking a chance—you’re taking a well-supported opportunity.

The timing of the tour during the whales’ breeding season ensures a high likelihood of encounters, and the comfortable boat setup makes it accessible to all ages and physical abilities. The fact that most travelers book about 19 days ahead highlights its popularity and proven track record.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife viewing and educational commentary. It suits those on a family vacation, couples, or solo explorers eager for a wildlife adventure with the comfort of a well-rated boat. If you are keen on listening to whale songs and enjoy guided naturalist talks, this experience will likely satisfy your expectations.

People who prefer small group experiences might find the maximum of 65 travelers a good balance—more intimate than large tours but enough to share the excitement with fellow travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Wake up with the Whales Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully organized whale watching adventure on the Big Island. From the guaranteed sightings to the expert guides and the unforgettable soundscape of whale songs, it provides significant value for anyone wanting to connect with Hawaii’s iconic marine life.

The combination of educational insight, comfort, and a high success guarantee makes it a compelling choice. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking fun, or someone simply eager to witness these gentle giants in action, this tour balances affordability with an authentic and memorable experience.

If you’re visiting the Big Island during whale season and crave a reliable, engaging, and informative trip, this cruise is worth your consideration.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing enough time to spot whales and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
You get snacks, soda, and alcoholic beverages, all included in the $125 cost. The tour also provides guided commentary and, weather permitting, the hydrophone experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the trip for a full refund. This flexibility helps if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

What if I don’t see any whales?
The tour guarantees whale sightings, meaning if you don’t see whales during your trip, you can return for free until you do. No limits apply.

Is the boat suitable for everyone?
Yes, the boat is described as stable and spacious, suitable for most travelers, including families and those with mobility considerations.

When should I book?
Most travelers book about 19 days in advance, indicating good availability during peak whale season but also suggesting early planning is wise.

In summary, this whale cruise offers a reliable, educational, and enjoyable encounter with Hawaii’s humpbacks. It’s a smart choice for those who value guided insights, audio experiences, and a guarantee of seeing whales—delivering a true taste of Big Island’s marine magic.