Mauna Kea Deluxe Whale Watch

December to March

Duration: 2 Hours
Power Boat: Olohana
Departure : Waimea, Kawaihae Harbor
Adult Starting at: $99
Child Starting at: $79
Close to Location: Nearby Mauna Kea Resorts

What You Will Experience

Set out from Kawaihae aboard Olohana, a 41-ft luxury powerboat, for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure. Enjoy coastal views and close encounters with humpback whales, guaranteed in season.

What to Expect

Join us aboard Olohana, a 41-ft luxury powerboat, for an unforgettable whale-watching experience along the stunning Kohala Coast. From December through March, the waters off Hawai‘i’s Big Island come alive with humpback whales — and sightings are guaranteed or you can ride again free (rerides only, no refunds)!

Cruise in comfort with panoramic views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai while our knowledgeable crew shares insights about these gentle giants and their migration. With its smooth ride, spacious seating, and shaded comfort, Olohana offers the perfect way to witness whales, dolphins, and other marine life in their natural habitat.

Experience Hawai‘i’s whale season the luxury way — small group, big adventure, pure aloha.

Highlights

Golden Hour on the Water: Cruise the Kohala Coast as the sun sinks toward the horizon, illuminating the ocean and island peaks in warm evening light — a picture-perfect time to be on the water.
Scenic Coastal Views: Glide past lava cliffs, sea caves, and secluded coves while enjoying panoramic views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai — and, on clear evenings, Haleakalā on Maui.
Wildlife Encounters: Watch for spinner dolphins playing in the wake, and during winter months, keep an eye out for breaching humpback whales.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded setting with personal attention from your crew — perfect for couples, families, and friends.
Relaxation & Light Bites: Savor light refreshments and the gentle rhythm of the ocean as day turns to twilight — island bliss, pure and simple.

What's Included

Guided 2-hour whale watch cruise along the Kohala Coast
Guaranteed humpback whale sightings (Dec–Mar) or a free re-ride
Professional captain and knowledgeable local crew
Cold soda, juice, and water provided on board
Educational narration and wildlife spotting
Shaded seating and dry storage for personal items

About The Boat

Get ready for an unforgettable ocean adventure as we set off from Kawaihae Harbor on our custom-built 41′ RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) Olohana — designed for comfort, speed, and an up-close experience with the stunning Hawaiian coastline!

Adult (13+): 199
Child (4-12): $79
Infant (0-3): FREE

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Meeting & Pickup Location

Meeting location

Waimea, departing from Kawaihae Harbor

Kawaihae Harbor
Waimea, HI 96743

Arrival Time: Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.

Location: Kawaihae Harbor South — look for the “Check-In” sign near the Hawai‘i Nautical loading area.

Check-In Process: Meet your captain and crew, complete a brief safety orientation, and get comfortable aboard Olohana before setting out along the coast for your sunset cruise.

Parking: Free parking is available at Kawaihae Harbor South. We recommend arriving early to secure a spot and not leaving valuables in your vehicle.

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Humpback whales visit Hawai‘i each year from December through March to breed, give birth, and care for their young in the islands’ warm, protected waters.

Yes — whale sightings are guaranteed! If no whales are spotted during your trip, you’re invited to come again for free.

Absolutely. While our crew helps spot whales for you, binoculars can enhance your experience for close-up viewing.

Yes. Spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and even manta rays are often spotted along the Kohala Coast.

Yes! This family-friendly cruise is great for guests of all ages. Life jackets are available for everyone.

The Olohana offers a dry, comfortable ride with shaded seating. You may feel a light ocean mist, but no full splashes — it’s part of the fun!

Olohana is a stable, luxury powerboat that minimizes motion. Most guests experience little to no seasickness.

Swimsuit and towel
Reef-safe sunscreen (no sprays, please apply before boarding)
Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
Reusable water bottle (to help reduce plastic waste — water provided on board)
Light cover-up or rash guard for sun protection before/after the snorkel session
Optional: Camera or waterproof phone case for photos… don’t forget to tag us @hawaiinautical!

If your tour is cancelled due to the captain’s discretion and/or weather, then you will receive a full refund or option to re-book your tour on another date based on availability. Guests cancelling their tour reservations 48 hours or more prior to departure are eligible to receive a full refund or can elect to re-book the tour on another date based on availability. Trip Protection is now available. For a small fee Trip Protection can be added to any booking allowing cancellation up to just 1 hour prior to departure! Trip Protection can be purchased at check-out. Guests who are not purchasing Trip Protection and cancelling their tour reservations less than 48 hours prior to departure are not eligible for a refund and will forfeit 100% of their payment.

Private Charters

Discover an unforgettable private ocean adventure along the stunning Kona Coast. This exclusive charter blends five-star comfort with the natural beauty of Hawai‘i’s waters. Explore pristine snorkel sites like Pawai Bay’s lava arches and Makalawena’s secluded beaches—home to vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and graceful sea turtles. Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins year-round and breaching humpback whales in winter.

With personalized service, premium amenities, and a commitment to ocean stewardship, Hawaii Nautical delivers a luxury yacht experience that’s both indulgent and eco-conscious. Perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking an intimate and unforgettable day on the Big Island’s crystal-blue waters.

Explore Private Charters