Sunlight On Water Sunset Manta Snorkel

Dolphin Boat Night Tour

Combine two of Hawaii’s most spectacular natural phenomena in one unforgettable tour. Begin with front-row seats to Kona’s world-famous sunset from the ocean, then transition seamlessly into magical manta ray snorkeling as twilight creates perfect conditions for these gentle giants to begin their evening feeding rituals.

Activity Price

130 USD

Duration

3 hours

Age

All Ages

Location

Honokohau

Amenities

Premium sunset viewing positions
Professional sunset and underwater photography

Special Instruction

Sunset to Manta Magic

Premium Ocean Sunset Viewing

Experience Kona’s legendary sunsets from the best vantage point on the ocean, away from crowded shoreline locations. Watch as the sun sets behind Mauna Loa volcano, painting the sky in brilliant colors while you’re positioned perfectly for stunning photography and romantic moments before your manta ray adventure begins.

Perfect Timing for Manta Ray Activity

The natural transition from sunset to twilight creates optimal conditions for manta ray feeding activity. As underwater lights illuminate the darkening waters, plankton concentrations increase, attracting manta rays to begin their graceful feeding displays just as you’re ready to enter the water for snorkeling.

Extended Ocean Experience Value

Enjoy 4+ hours of continuous ocean adventure, maximizing your time on Hawaii’s beautiful waters while experiencing both iconic sunset views and manta ray encounters. This combination format provides exceptional value and creates lasting memories of Hawaii’s natural beauty both above and below the ocean surface.

Sunset Manta Adventure Details

About
Pricing

Join Us for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure in Kona!

Duration:
3 hours

About the Experience
Kona offers one of the best locations in the world for up-close manta ray snorkeling in shallow waters. This unique Kona experience allows you to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as they feed and perform incredible barrel rolls—an amazing sight found only here in Kona!

Our tour begins with a scenic cruise along the stunning Big Island coastline, complete with a breathtaking sunset before we head into the water for the manta ray snorkeling adventure. The mantas in Kona are unlike any others, known for their unique barrel-rolling feeding style—making this an unforgettable experience.

On this nighttime adventure, you’ll float on the surface while watching these “butterflies of the sea” glide and dance below you. Mantas are completely harmless, with no teeth, stingers, or barbs. To ensure minimal disturbance, we tie off directly to the back of the boat, allowing you to simply enjoy the incredible manta performance.

Our custom-built lightboards attract plankton, providing an abundant food source for the mantas. This snorkeling adventure in the dark waters of Kona is an exhilarating experience like no other.

Safety & Crew:
Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities. All of our crew members are 100% lifeguard and CPR certified and will be in the water with you, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

After the Tour:
When you return to the boat, you’ll be treated to a warm shower and a choice of a warm beverage (hot cocoa or tea), along with snacks to refresh you after your adventure.

Personal Belongings:
You’re welcome to bring cameras and cell phones onboard at your own risk. We provide a dry storage area for your personal items.

No Manta Policy:
While we see mantas 90+% of the time, they are wild animals, and their appearance is beyond our control. No refunds will be issued for non-sightings. However, we will offer to bring your party back on the boat another night, subject to availability.

What to Bring:

  • Layered dry clothing

  • Sunglasses

  • Towel

  • Camera (or inquire about our photography services)

What is Provided:

  • Snorkel + Mask (Prescription masks available upon request)

  • Wetsuit

  • Flotation devices

  • A variety of hot and cold beverages + snacks

Our Boat:
Our 40′ vessel is one of the most comfortable in the harbor, equipped with shade, a bathroom, a fresh water shower, and dry storage for your belongings.

Rates

  • Adult (Ages 13 and up): $130

  • Child (Ages 12 and under): $120

  • Ride Along (Must book with another passenger): $95

  • Private Charter: $1800

Sunset Manta Snorkel FAQ

  • Departure times vary seasonally to ensure optimal sunset viewing, typically 1-2 hours before sunset. This timing allows for scenic positioning, sunset photography, and seamless transition to manta ray snorkeling as darkness falls and feeding activity begins.

  • Absolutely! This tour is perfect for photography enthusiasts. We encourage sunset photography from the boat, and provide guidance for underwater manta ray photography. Many guests capture stunning sunset shots followed by incredible manta ray encounter images in one memorable tour.

  • Yes! There’s a natural transition period between sunset viewing and optimal manta ray snorkeling time. During this interval, you can enjoy refreshments, receive your snorkeling briefing, and watch the beautiful twilight colors reflect on the ocean while anticipating your manta ray encounter.

  • Yes! The sunset portion includes complimentary beverages and light refreshments while you enjoy the spectacular views. After your manta ray snorkeling, we provide hot drinks and snacks to warm you up, ensuring comfort throughout the extended ocean adventure.

  • Sunset manta ray tours are spectacular year-round, but conditions are often optimal from April through October when trade winds are lighter and skies are clearer. However, Hawaii’s consistent climate provides beautiful sunsets and excellent manta ray encounters throughout the year.

What Our Guests Say