Sunset Cruise with the Whales from Anaeho'omalu Bay

Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Sunset Cruise with the Whales from Anaeho'omalu Bay

Active

(46 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Combine unparalleled views of the Hawaiian coastline from a stable and spacious catamaran with the biggest guests of all -- the Humpback Whales -- and you have perfect way to begin your evening in paradise! Cruise along the Kohala on a legendary sailing catamaran. Also includes soft drinks and tropical juices, beer, wine, cocktails and snacks. The on-board naturalist will provide interpretation of the whales behaviors -- great fun -- great photo ops!
Please note, Humpback sightings are not guaranteed on this cruise!

This Cruise departs either from Anaeho'omalu Bay at the Waikoloa Beach Resort.

Available options

4:30 Sunset WW from Abay

Complimentary Bar/Appetizers

4:00 Sunset WW from Abay

Bar and Snacks: We include soft drinks, beer, wine, cocktails and crunchy snacks.<br/>4:00 PM Departure: Seasonal Departure: 12/15 - 1/31

What's included

Alcoholic Beverages

Snacks

Live commentary on board

Unlimited soft drinks, tropical juices, beer, wine & cocktails

Professional crew

Detailed itinerary

Check in at the Ocean Sports Beach Hut for your cruise.

Stop 2 Pass by

fter checking in at the Ocean Sports Beach Hut at Anaeho'omalu Bay, you'll access the tender boat ramp by walking through the water at the shoreline (depending on wind and sea conditions, you may be walking through knee deep water, but there will be crew available to assist you). The tender boat pulls right alongside the legendary sailing catamaran, and you walk up three short steps to board (again, the crew will assist you).

Once on-board, you'll be offered a tropical cocktail or soft drink as you familiarize yourself with the catamaran and the seating areas in the cabin and on deck. Besides the bench seating, you'l find two large netted trampolines (perfect for lounging) on the bow. Going aft, you'll find bench seating along the cabin and at the stern of the boat.

As you get underway, the USCG licensed captain will introduce you to the boat and the crew, and provide a short safety orientation. An assortment of cold pupu (appetizers) are available throughout the cruise, A complimentary bar is open for the duration of the charter featuring tropical cocktails, a short bar, local beers on tap, red and white wines, and soft drinks.

As you leave the bay, the crew will pull the sails, and you'll begin the search for spouts and splashes from the Humpback Whales. The on board naturalist will be available to answer all your Humpback Whale questions and also provide interpretation of the whales' behaviors. The captain will maneuver the vessel to provide you with the best views (and best photo ops) of the whales. This local operator is proud to follow the federal regulations protecting the Humpbacks. They will not approach a Humpback closer than 100 yards or maneuver the vessel in any way that might alter the behavior of the whales. If the weather permits, the captain will stop the vessel and deploy the underwater hydrophone so that you can hear the haunting songs of the Humpback Whales too!

Throughout the cruise, you can help yourself to appetizers (though the friendly crew will be happy to bring them to you -- as well as refresh your beverages). Watch for the "green flash" as the sun sets over the horizon! Your captain will turn the boat and head back into the bay, securing the vessel on the mooring 90 minutes after the departure time. Deboarding the catamaran is as easy as boarding, and you'll take the tender boat back to shore..

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

30 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

16 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum drinking age is 21 years

Meeting point

Set your GPS to “69-1081 Kuualii Place Waikoloa, Hawaii 96738”. Park at the A-Bay Beach Park parking lot. Head toward the beach, once you reach the sand, take a right and walk along the beach. About halfway down the beach, you will see our beach hut -- check in with our friendly crew!

Important notes

Please provide a phone contact number where the local operator can reach you the day prior to your cruise for reconfirmation.

Please provide first and last names for all guests in your party.

Please contact provider at information@hawaiioceansports.com so that we can send you a link to our electronic waiver. The waiver must be signed prior to boarding.

About Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate ($30 per vehicle)

Mauna Kea Summit

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Free (but requires acclimatization)

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Nature/Cultural Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Beach Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate ($5 per person)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.

Appetizer Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood

Loco Moco

A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Main Course Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings

Kona Coffee

A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.

Drink Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Water sports Beach lounging Spa treatments Scenic drives Traditional Hawaiian luaus Local markets

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.

21-30°C 70-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Rent a car with full insurance coverage
• Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
• Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling

Getting there

By air

Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo

By bus

Hilo, Kona

Getting around

Public transport

The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kona Hilo Waimea

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Waipio Valley

60 km from Hilo • Half day

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Hapuna Beach State Park

30 km from Waimea • Half day

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Festivals

Merrie Monarch Festival • April Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November Ironman World Championship • October

Pro tips

Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites