FAQs

Yes. To ensure a high-quality experience:

• Daytime snorkel tours require a minimum of 6 guests
  
• Night Manta Ray Experiences require a minimum of 8 guests
  

If the minimum is not met, we will contact you with options including rescheduling or a full refund.

Yes. Sea Quest Hawaii offers one of the most immersive and efficient ways to experience the Kona Coast, combining small groups, expert local captains, and access to locations larger boats cannot reach. Our custom designed vessels allow us to explore the rugged and beautiful South Kona Coast in ways other larger boats like catamarans cannot.

Absolutely. Guests are encouraged to bring phones, GoPros, and traditional cameras to capture their experience. The Kona Coast offers exceptional opportunities for marine life, lava formations, and underwater photography.

We love when guests share their experience, feel free to tag @seaquesthawaii.

In addition to Kealakekua Bay and Hōnaunau, the third snorkel location is selected by your captain on the day of the tour. This decision is based on ocean conditions and safety.

These sites are typically remote locations not visited by other tour operators, giving guests exclusive access to pristine reefs and marine environments.

Cancellations are rare. The Kona Coast is known for calm seas and favorable weather year round. However, guest safety is our top priority. Sea Quest Hawaii reserves the right to cancel or delay a tour if conditions are unsafe.

 If a tour is canceled, guests may reschedule or receive a refund.

Sea Quest Hawaii operates small boats and does not overbook. We maintain a 48-hour cancellation policy:

• Cancel or reschedule 48 hours or more in advance for a full refund
  
• Changes within 48 hours are subject to penalties unless Trip Protection was purchased

If you booked with one of our partners, please refer to their cancellation policy. 

Trip Protection allows maximum flexibility. With Trip Protection, you may cancel or reschedule for any reason up to 1 hour before your scheduled check-in time, receiving a refund minus the protection cost or avoiding rebooking fees.

Without Trip Protection, the standard 48-hour policy applies.

• Morning & afternoon tours: Check in 15 minutes before departure
  
• Night Manta Ray Experience: Check in 30 minutes before departure
  

Exact times vary seasonally. Always refer to your confirmation email.

Sea Quest Hawaii offers a Manta Guarantee. If zero manta rays are seen:

• You may return on another Night Manta tour at no charge or
• Join a Captain Cook Exclusive afternoon snorkel tour

(Subject to availability; non-transferable; no refunds)

As of May 5, 2023, COVID-19 is no longer considered a global emergency. Sea Quest Hawaii’s standard 48-hour cancellation policy applies.

We recommend booking at least one week in advance, especially during peak seasons such as summer, spring break, and holidays. Large groups should book as early as possible.

Sea Quest’s high-performance rafts reduce seasickness due to their open-air design and fast, stable ride. While no vessel eliminates seasickness entirely, guests generally experience fewer issues than on large boats.

Most snorkeling takes place in 10–15 feet of water.

For the Night Manta Experience, water depth is 20–30 feet, and guests float on the surface of the water, holding onto our custom designed “light board” which attracts the plankton and in turn the manta rays. Standing on coral is not permitted to protect the reef.

Guests can either utilize our sturdy aluminum ladder or slide easily into the water from the side of the boat. Re-boarding is assisted by the crew and done via the ladder. The crew is there to support at all times.

No. Sea Quest Hawaii’s small vessels do not have bathrooms. Guests are encouraged to use facilities before departure. Once underway, the first swim opportunity typically occurs within 30–40 minutes.

Yes. We provide high-quality snorkeling equipment, including masks, fins, snorkels, flotation devices, and prescription masks for near-sighted guests. All gear is professionally sanitized.

Yes. Guests are welcome to bring their own equipment if preferred.

No. Sea Quest Hawaii does not provide full-face masks due to safety concerns. Guests may bring their own gear at their discretion and are encouraged to research the brand and style thoroughly before purchasing or renting equipment. 

Most Sea Quest vessels include shade covers. Others are intentionally open to allow access to sea caves and lava tubes, a highlight of South Kona Coast exploration. The type of vessel utilized depends on the tour you are booking. The longer day tours utilize covered vessels. 

Yes. Vegetarian snack and meal options are available on all applicable tours.

Dolphins are seen often Sea Quest tours, though sightings cannot be guaranteed. Pilot whales are common year-round as are other varities of resident whales. Humpback whales are frequently seen from December through April.

Yes. Many Sea Quest tours are suitable for non-swimmers and first-time snorkelers, with guidance provided by the crew.

The Night Manta Experience requires strong swimming and snorkeling ability. 

For private charters, an in the water crew is available to assist you for an additional cost.

Yes, but all minors must be accompanied by an adult. For the Night Manta Experience, a parent or guardian must participate in the water with the child.

Yes. Guests may remain onboard during any tour, provided tour requirements are met. A ticket is still required.

Keauhou Bay is a historic and culturally significant place. It is the closest harbor to Kealakekua Bay, allowing guests to spend more time snorkeling, exploring the coastline, viewing marine life and less time traveling

Ocean stewardship is central to Sea Quest Hawaii’s mission. We actively promote reef protection, responsible wildlife viewing, and sustainable tour practices.

Yes. Sea Quest Hawaii offers customizable private boat charters for families, groups, and special occasions.

The Ocean Stewardship Fee directly supports marine conservation efforts in the State of Hawaii. Full details are available on our stewardship page.