Reviewed by: Paul Miller
First Ill start and say the Rays were awesome. So many showed up and the crew was teaching us facts while we were out there.
The beginning was a little different though. When we arrived at the shop it was very unorganized, the area to get a wet suite top was very dark and scattered, there was very little instruction getting on boat and captain didn't seem to really wanna be there.
I would pick a different company if we did it again.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Moonlight Manta Snorkel (Seasonal) |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/07/18 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/14 |
Reviewed by: Paul Miller
Great trip. Our captain Liam, aka sweet onion, and Shay were the perfect host. They were funny, informative, helpful and the perfect host. Went to 2 great snorkeling spots, sea caves and saw dolphins. They also provided a great lunch and snacks. Definitely recommend this company.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/07/18 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/14 |
Reviewed by: Emily
This excursion was one of the coolest things I’ve ever done! I’ve been to the Big Island 4 times prior and never did this, but I now highly recommend it! It will truest blow your mind to see these beautiful creatures! Trever, Diego, Captain Wayne and all the other crew that I can’t remember their name, sorry, were very helpful and knowledgeable about the Manta Rays. The rays came within inches of us! Very cool! Highly recommend!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/07/18 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/16 |
Reviewed by: Mary
Wonderful and fun crew! Enjoyed a leisurely evening cruise ending with a beautiful sunset.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Sunset Cocktail Cruise |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/07/17 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/15 |
Reviewed by: ElizD318
My husband and I, our 4 adult children, and their significant others had a wonderful time on the Mauna Kea Stargazing and Summit Tour. Everyone even liked the dinner.
Maka was a great guide. He picked us up promptly and was very friendly on the ride to Mauna Kea. We learned a lot about the surrounding area and volcanoes.
The best part was the sunset. It was like being on another planet and the colors were vivid and amazing.
Unfortunately, the amazing sunset was due to the clouds and it made for poor stargazing.
We were able to see the craters of the moon through the telescope and hear about the local names for some of the stars, in spite of the clouds. And I was glad we did not have to drive that windy road ourselves.
I would suggest checking on the cycle of the moon before booking and do not go during a full moon.
We still had a wonderful time and will never forget the Sunset on the summit.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/07/13 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/21 |
Reviewed by: Melissa Wheelock
This was definitely a highlight of our trip!
Captain Morgan and his crew were awesome. They made sure we had the best experience; anchoring the boat away from the larger boats packed with fellow snorkelers whenever possible. They were knowledgeable and friendly! Highly recommend.
Aloha Melissa,
Mahalo for the wonderful review and recommendation. We are ecstatic to hear you had a great experience with us and we hope to see you on your next visit to the islands. Until then, A hui hou!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/07/12 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/09 |
Reviewed by: Glenn
Crew was great, energetic and attentive. Such an amazing experience, I found myself holding my breath as I felt these magnificent manta rays swim under me.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/07/12 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/10 |
Reviewed by: Emily
For a list minute booking, this experience was amazing. The entire crew was very knowledgeable and helpful. We saw so many manta rays up close and personal. They are such majestic creatures. One of the best moments of our entire trip!
Aloha Emily,
Yes, they are coming so close enough to touch!
We are so glad you enjoyed the tour and spend a great time with Manta Rays.
Mahalos
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/07/11 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/09 |
Reviewed by: Danielle
Show itself was pretty good. Food was just ok. Happy there was a kids food table. Disappointed there was a small desert selection
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Ohana Package |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/07/10 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/15 |
Reviewed by: Amanda
My husband and I had a great time. He was 12 weeks out from recovering from a pelvic reconstruction surgery and the staff were so accommodating! He enjoyed the boat ride and made it into the water for one snorkel spot! I even got inked on by an octopus! Great day on the water with attentive staff!
Aloha Amanda,
Mahalo Nui Loa for the wonderful review. It sounds like an amazing day, it's not too often we get to spot an octopus! We hope to have the pleasure of you joining us on your next visit!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise with 2 Snorkel Stops, Breakfast & Lunch [4.5 hrs] |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/07/10 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/08 |
Reviewed by: MJUm
We stumbled upon Zodiac Rafting after getting declined at two other places but everyone in our group said they would have regretted going with anyone else!
First of all, they have all COVID safety measures in place. Temp check, all staff with masks, smaller groups so we felt comfortable and safe.
Second, the staff! Jennifer at reception was so sweet and accommodating. And Captain Collen, he’s the best! Knowledgeable and experienced without being overbearing or too chatty. Made sure we had the best ride, safe snorkeling trip, took us to special locations to see the Big Island in all it’s beauty and kept checking that we were having a good time and no one was uncomfortable. And they even provided reef safe sunscreen which we thought ours was but Captain explained it was not. They’re really passionate not only but people having a good time but that the natural life on the Big Island is protected and safe. We really appreciated that.
And let’s not forget, we had a private boat because it was just our family on the trip. So it was even extra special!
So don’t waste your time elsewhere. Just go straight to Zodiac people!
Aloha,
Thank you for such kind words. Our employees really do love the jobs they do. We are glad the private tour fit your families needs and made you feel comfortable as we come out of such a long pandemic period. I'm sure your captain and crew really enjoyed your family and sharing just how special our island is. Hope to have you all out again as there are more places on our island to see and snorkel.
Mahalo,
CZ Ohana
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | 4-Hour Deluxe Morning Tour (8:00 AM) |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/07/08 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/06 |
Reviewed by: Shalini Banerjee
This was the perfect ending to our Hawaii trip. It was awesome and the trip exceeded all our expectations. New even got to see Saturn and the entire thing was on time and perfect.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2021/07/08 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/04 |
Reviewed by: Wendy
We went on the sunset cruise and had a great experience. The crew/guides were knowledgeable, fun and helpful. When we got in the water, they knew where to take us for the best viewing.
The Manta Ray's were so cool to see. This should be on your must do activity list. I would recommend it over a regular day time snorkel trip. However, next time I would do the later night time trip. The Manta Rays seem to be more active the later it gets.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2021/07/03 |
Activity Date: | 2021/07/01 |
Reviewed by: Shankar
Great friendly staff. They took customer satisfaction to heart and made sure everyone had a great time. Loved it!!!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Sunset Cocktail Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/06/30 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/27 |
Reviewed by: Shankar
Staff are super friendly and funny. Loved the experience of going to 150 ft inside the ocean and see the marine life !!!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Kona Submarine |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/06/30 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/28 |
Reviewed by: Daniel
Awesome crew, it's actually an advantage to go on a smaller boat with fewer people, highly recommended.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Sunset Cruise & Evening Manta Snorkel Tour [2.5 hours] |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/06/29 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/27 |
Reviewed by: Brian My
Our crew was awesome and made the experience just totally rad.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Moonlight Manta Snorkel (Seasonal) |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/06/29 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/27 |
Reviewed by: Dude
Was lots of fun! Saw manta rays and enjoyed the sunset!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/06/28 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/25 |
Reviewed by: S. Ely
Wonderful experience! The captain and crew was amazing!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Sunset Cocktail Cruise |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/06/26 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/24 |
Reviewed by: Haven
I would totally do this again! Such beautiful creatures!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Sunset Cruise & Evening Manta Snorkel Tour [2.5 hours] |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2021/06/26 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/24 |
Reviewed by: jrd
We booked this sort of last minute and were so pleased with the tour! The crew was great and had some very funny and entertaining jokes/stories. The manta rays were indescribable and it was such a unique experience. One major thing to note - we went in the middle of June and it was still very cold in the water, wetsuits are a must in my opinion!
Aloha, Thank you for joining our Manta Ray snorkeling tour! We are grad that you had a great time with Mantas. Yes, since Manta Ray tour stars after Sunset, we highly recommend to wear wet suits during snorkeling. Thank you for your advice!
A Hui Hou.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Friends |
Posted on: | 2021/06/26 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/24 |
Reviewed by: Mel
Never done anything like this. Is like a must do in Kona.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/06/25 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/20 |
Reviewed by: Phani V
We traveled with our 7 and 10 year old boys. The 7 year old snorkeled for the first time that morning and didn't really like it. The staff on this tour were very friendly and knowledgeable. They helped us get the way suits and pick snorkeling gear. By the end of the day, our kids were raving about the trip and wanted to go back and spend more time. Keep in mind, this adventure happens after sundown! You don't actually snorkel freely in the dark. You are holding on to a floating structure alongside other passengers while the crew circle around checking on everyone and helping them float. Watching the manta rays was very very cool... More cool than my words can describe. The waters were choppier than I thought they would be.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/06/24 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/22 |
Reviewed by: Erika
Awesome and respectful Hawaiian crew members did chants, offerings and storytelling as we entered and left the bay. The sail was wonderful, and the crew was super helpful, watching my young son who decided last minute not to go into the water, so I had a chance to enjoy the activity.
Mahalo for the wonderful review! We hope to have the pleasure of you joining us again on your next visit!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Afternoon Snorkel Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/06/23 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/11 |
Reviewed by: Quinn
Very pleased with our mantra dive experience. The crew was friendly, knowledgeable, and took charge to make sure everyone had the best experience possible. At one point a few children refused to stop kicking their legs in the water after being asked numerous times to keep still (or else they scare the plankton away and therefore mantas don’t come), after the children repeatedly showed they could not follow directions they were asked to leave the water, as to ensure a good experience for the other people on the excursion. Very much appreciated that. Also great snacks, and fun music!
Seemed to be a very special experience and we were surprised it is marketed as family friendly. In our opinion, only well-behaved kids over ~9 should come on this... otherwise there runs a risk of ruining it for everyone, or even hurting the mantas.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/06/23 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/21 |
Reviewed by: Devin
The crew met us on time and were reasonably friendly, the boat looked well kept, and the wetsuits were clean. Everything felt safe and there were free sodas and snacks on the way back to the harbor. It's about 30 minutes from the harbor to the site where the mantas feed, and we got there pretty early so the crew was able to secure a good anchor spot amongst the dozens of other boats. Once it was dark enough we jumped in the water and held on to the raft attached to the boat. A light was shone and a few mantas swam up to feed on plankton near the light. We felt lucky to have them come to our boat because I'm sure with so many boats, other tourists may have struck out. After 30 minutes the captain told us we were leaving which was disappointing because we were still enjoying the show, and our boat was the first to leave. It felt like the crew was tired from a long day and wanted to get home, so our tour was shortened for their convenience. Overall I'm glad we did it but it could have been better.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Sunset Cruise & Evening Manta Snorkel Tour [2.5 hours] |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/06/19 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/28 |
Reviewed by: Nicole W
Gabe, our tour guide, was funny, patient and very knowledgeable! It’s a long drive there picking up all attendees and up the mountain. He did a great job sharing interesting facts and keeping us engaged throughout the tour! Plus he was a very safe driver given the rough terrain (4-wheel drive required to get to the top). At the very top Mauna Kea looks like Mars since no life can survive and was a surreal experience for this reason. Plus viewing the sunset over the clouds at the very top was breathtaking! Note we did not stargaze at the very top, since the altitude is too high and actually prohibits ideal stargazing because of prolonged altitude sickness and the fact it’s insanely cold after sundown (FYI it’s windy and cold up there, so wear layers - you’ll thank me!!). Instead we stargazed near the welcome center enjoying hot coco or hot coffee! We learned about the different constellations, etc. Overall it was a great tour and we’re glad to we did it!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Mauna Kea Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Dinner |
Attended as: | Couples |
Posted on: | 2021/06/13 |
Activity Date: | 2021/05/19 |
Reviewed by: Alyssahsieh
Our family of 4, with twin 11 yos thoroughly enjoyed this tour. Trevor and Tamae went above and beyond making sure everyone was taken care of. We saw Manta Rays galore!! It was the most unforgettable experience. I highly recommend it!
Aloha Alyssahsieh,
Thank you for joining our Manta Ray sunset Tour!
Yes, it is very exciting that Manta Ray flies so close!!
Please come again with your friends and families.
Mahalo
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Manta Ray Night Snorkel with Sunset Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/06/12 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/11 |
Reviewed by: April from Dallas Tx
I really enjoyed my experience. It’s not just snorkeling but they had paddle boats, water tube, a mat that allowed you to lay out in the ocean. The lunch cruise had grilled hornet burgers with soft buns. The drinks were tasty! Crew was friendly but very strict when it came to the rules, however, everyone made it back home safely. Great experience with my family!
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Cruise |
Attended as: | Families with Young Children |
Posted on: | 2021/06/12 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/10 |
Reviewed by: Ray
I really loved the snorkel session and so did my mom. At first he was a little nervous about getting in at night but the staff were very nice and accommodating to help her in.
Rating: | |
---|---|
Packages: | Standard Package: Sunset Manta Snorkel |
Attended as: | Families |
Posted on: | 2021/06/12 |
Activity Date: | 2021/06/09 |
Tips and suggestions
Reply from activity provider
An unexpected error has occurred. Please go back to the previous page and try again, or wait a few minutes and try once again.
Thank you very much!
Mantas swim in a relaxed matter, and come close and turn around under the blue light.
It is very mystical experience !
Please don't miss out when you visit Kona.
Mahalo