Plug: Kona Snorkel Trips on Big Island

[bnoble]

We took the early Manta night snorkel last night. This is a small boat--18 guests max, in two groups of nine max. Unlike some manta trips, you aren't sitting in one place. Instead, one of the crew "tows" your group to better spots during your time in the water. If that means that the boat comes to you rather than the other way around at the end, then that's what they do. We had *fantastic* views of several different rays, and a couple did barrel rolls within at most inches of us. We also took a side trip through a pod of spinner dolphins on the way out to the site.

Everyone on our boat seemed to be comfortable in the water and on the boat, but I get the sense that the crew would be great for those with a bit more anxiety about it all.

This is a small, female-owned/operated business. It's not cheap, but was well worth it. We'll be back.

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[JulieAB]

I'm reading their site and they mention intermediate to advanced snorkelers. What do you think that would be? We're not brand new, but I'm not sure that 6 weeks of previous island trips puts us in the intermediate category (we probably averaged 4-5 snorkels per week?)? It's also been 5 years since our last trip.

Also, how "open" is the open water spot they take you to? Can you see the bottom? I have a huge fear of open water and I'm sure the dark will make it worse. We did a Lanai snorkel trip last time and the drop from the catamaran in the bay was a little too out there for my comfort! I made it, but I had to keep my head up out of the water as I swam back to the boat.

 

[bnoble]

Visibility was great the night we were there. Our guide estimated 65 ft and the bottom was easily visible. It sounded like that was a little unusual.

I think the web site is (perhaps necessarily) conservative about what to expect. You are in a 3/4 wetsuit and a floatation belt so you couldn’t sink if you tried. No fins, just a mask and snorkel. The trickiest bit is the wet entry; from sitting on the pontoon into the water and the force of that puts you under for a half second. But again, you’ll bob like a cork once you’ve settled into the water.

The water immediately around the board is well-lit. And there are several groups on the water. But beyond that it is dark. So if anything it is a mental challenge not a physical one. It was easier than I expected. It sounds like you will want to do a shore entry or two on that trip before you go out on the tour to get you “sea legs” back.

 

[DeniseM]

When we went on this trip, my husband and I got separated in the water, and he got on the wrong boat to leave!

 

[bnoble]

The operator we used has you holding on to a surfboard with handles attached. If you don’t let go you’ll end up in the right place!

 

[daventrina]

I'm reading their site and they mention intermediate to advanced snorkelers. What do you think that would be? We're not brand new, but I'm not sure that 6 weeks of previous island trips puts us in the intermediate category (we probably averaged 4-5 snorkels per week?)? It's also been 5 years since our last trip.

Also, how "open" is the open water spot they take you to? Can you see the bottom? I have a huge fear of open water and I'm sure the dark will make it worse. We did a Lanai snorkel trip last time and the drop from the catamaran in the bay was a little too out there for my comfort! I made it, but I had to keep my head up out of the water as I swam back to the boat.

That would be considered intermediate, not beginner.
Both manta sites are in the open ocean. Manta Heaven is sorta protected some from a south or north swell. They take you here:
earth.google.com Manta Heaven

Keauhou Manta Is completely exposed. Some people like it because it is a 5 minute ride from the harbor. But generally, it is not as good as Manta Heaven.

The dive/snorkel is in about 30-60 feet of water at both sites.

They follow the Manta Pacific Research Foundations operations guidelines.
Shouldn't go out with anyone that doesn't ...

Jack's Dive Locker posts their Manta Report online Jack's Manta Report

Costco has discount passes for their trip.