Mae's review, Big Island tours & activities, fun things to do in Big Island | HawaiiActivities.com

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Find out more here

Hawaiian Islands


Review by Mae for Kona Manta Ray Snorkel & Night Dive Tour at Keauhou Bay - Sea Paradise
Hawaii, Big Island
See activity detail

Sea Paradise Sunset Sail-NO Sailing!

There was no sailing on this trip.The Manta rays are close to where the boat goes in the water. I thought we would have a nice sail while the sun was setting and then get in the water but that was not the case. This experience was both boring and exciting. You are in the water for 45 minutes lying flat with arms outstretched holding onto the handle on one of several connected "light boards"while you have your snorkeled face in the water, and are balancing a noodle under your ankles. You brush up against the people on either side of you.The motion of the ocean gets to be a bit much for many people. I heard a crew member say to another "at least no one puked this trip". I have never been sea sick but started feeling queasy and did get out with about 10 minutes to go. You can raise your arm and be escorted back to the boat at any time.You are provided with a half wet suit but still you get chilled. If you have any shoulder problems I would think twice about doing this trip. All that being said it was so cool when the Mantas did show up and swim right past you! There weren't many but I got some good video and stills with a camera that I borrowed from a friend. Maybe there is a better time of day or year to see more mantas? If you're positioned on a middle light board you have time to get the camera set because you will hear the people at the ends of the the light boards ooh and aah and cheer! I probably would not do this trip again but notice I didn't say never! The boat was nice , the crew was fine.

Reply from activity provider

Aloha Mae,

We are so sorry to hear you found your experience less than stellar. We appreciate your feedback. We often do try to do some sailing prior to heading to the Manta Ray Village, however factors of getting the best viewing spot for our guests may have disrupted the sailing part as many times through out the year we'll have northern boats come down to view the manta's if they haven't been seeing any at their usual location. Our best recommendation for hanging on to the light rafts would be to not be tense, this can make for an unpleasant experience for anyone, including people with shoulder problems. It's best to relax and go with the flow of the ocean rather than against it. Although we are sad to hear you didn't enjoy your whole time with us, we are happy to hear you enjoyed the stars of the show. They are truly magical. We hope you'll give us another try on a return visit to the islands. Mahalo Nui Loa!

Rating: star
Packages: Sunset Sail & Manta Ray Snorkel Cruise
Attended as:Solo Travelers
Posted on: 2021/10/12
Activity Date: 2021/04/19
  • sunset

  • hanging onto the light boards

  • look at that maw!

  • cool!

  • wow!

  • underbelly

Helpful