As you enter Honokohau Harbor, continue straight, do not turn right. Continue straight to the end of the road and on the right you will see a gravel lot to park and our sign at Outer Basin Slip #38, vessel "Spirit of Aloha".
Description
Every winter, thousands of humpback whales return to Hawaii's warm waters - and there's no better way to see them than from the deck of the Spirit of Aloha. Cruise along the scenic Kona Coast and witness these gentle giants breaching, tail-slapping, and playing at the surface.
Our friendly and knowledgeable crew share fascinating facts about whale behavior, migration, and local marine life while you enjoy the ocean breeze and panoramic views. Keep your camera ready - dolphins and turtles are often spotted along the way too!
Relax with tropical cocktails, beer, wine, soda and juice from the full premium bar on board. Whale sightings are guaranteed - if you don't see one, you can come again free (re-ride only, no refunds).
Schedule & prices
Runs
Every day
Start times
2:15 PM
Season
Starts Nov 30
Next available
Tue, Dec 1
Adult (ages 13+)
$109
Child (ages 4–12)
$79
Infant (ages 0–3)
Free
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 16.
Tour Options
Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch
What's included
Included
Comfortable shaded seating available
Full premium bar with tropical cocktails, beer, wine, soda and juice
Restrooms on board
Not included
Gratuity is customary and greatly appreciated if you enjoyed your experience
Traveller Ratings
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
4.5
61 reviews
5
42
4
13
3
4
2
1
1
1
How it compares in Big Island of Hawaii
Starting price $109 is 13% below the typical $125 for tours of similar length in Big Island of Hawaii
Excurgo comparison of 524 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
Important Information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund
Frequently asked questions
How long does Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch take?
Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch lasts about 1h 30min.
How much does Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch cost?
Prices start at $109 per person for this Big Island of Hawaii experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
What days does Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch run?
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 2:15 PM.
How much does Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch cost for children?
Children aged 4–12 pay from $79, adults from $109. Infants go free.
Can I cancel Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is As you enter Honokohau Harbor, continue straight, do not turn right. Continue straight to the end of the road and on the right you will see a gravel lot to park and our sign at Outer Basin Slip #38, vessel "Spirit of Aloha". Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 49 participants.
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Is Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch worth it?
Travellers rate it 4.5 out of 5 across 61 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Hawaii Nautical.
Reviews(61)
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
D
davenL5659FQ
April 24, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
disappointing
We went on the last day of the whale watching season- March 31. We knew it was the tail end of the season. We saw no whales. Because we didn't see whales, we got a paper rain check for another cruise that we can use on any of the islands the company works on. First, what are the chances we'll go back to Hawaii and we'll remember we have this rain check? Second, it's a bit disingenuous on the part of the company to offer whale sails when the likelihood of seeing whales goes way down. I'm not a whale watching expert but when the likelihood of seeing whales goes under say 40%, cancel the sail and give people a full refund not a raincheck than will likely never be used.
R
Robert_G
March 10, 2026 · via Viator
Lovely catamaran but range is limited
Lovely catamaran and safe trip. No music or info about island or sea life. We knew we were at end of season so took a chance. Saw no whales, no dolphins. Discovered catamarans aren't as fast as smaller boats and can't go as far, so range limited. They did uphold a free "reride" no expiration on any of 3 islands they service.
L
L5278SNbrandym
March 10, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
A sunny boat ride
This excursion was nice. Booked it because they provided beverages just in case there wasn’t any wildlife activity. And unfortunately there wasn’t much. Not the boat & crew’s fault of course but just an unlucky outing. Considering it was whale season was hoping to see some cool activity but they were being shy apparently. Would’ve been nice if the crew had more to say or explain about the area, etc. since there wasn’t much whale watching happening. But overall a nice time on the water.
D
davidwU8742WA
February 17, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Great experience
Great Service and had Blast with the wife. Thanks guys
A
Anonymous
February 16, 2026 · via Viator
Great staff and beautiful...
Great staff and beautiful day. Whale watching on Big Island is never going to be like Maui, but we saw some spouts and rolls.
J
jennifercQ3130HB
February 15, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
Afternoon Fun!
I had a wonderful experience on why Nautical’s afternoon whale watch! Friendly crew, room, and shade & and my favorite…. a hydrophone to hear the whales! They swam in incredibly close to us and we had an incredible view! I highly recommend! 🐋
D
Debra_F
February 1, 2026 · via Viator
Great crew!
Great crew! The whales cooperated and the coastline was gorgeous! Stan, John and James took good care of us!
W
Will_D
January 26, 2026 · via Viator
Ocean Blue - Great Friendly Crew - Whales Too!
Very Relaxed Atmosphere with a capable crew. The crew constantly pointed out whale sprays, whale tail flips and offered and made us drinks. Just being out on the too blue ocean in the sun and Hawaiian breeze was amazing!
O
O7849ANlindseyr
January 25, 2026 · via Tripadvisor
👍
Great experience. Crew was delightful. Saw whales and dolphins. Loved that it wasn’t a large or overcrowded boat. Just perfect. Thanks!
E
Erika_B
January 25, 2026 · via Viator
Awesome experience
Great experience. The crew was very helpful and knowledgeable. The vessel itself was clean and well kept.
Compare similar tours in Big Island of Hawaii
Lowest price: Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch — $109
Best rated: Kona: Guaranteed Dolphin/Whale Watch — 4.9 (582 reviews)
Shortest: Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch — 1h 30min
