Hawaiian Sail and Snorkel

Small-Group, Morning Sail and Snorkel Along the Kona Coast

Welcome to the only place in Hawaii where the spirit of ancient Hawaiian seafaring meets modern expectations on the pristine waters of the Kona coast. Immerse yourself in a unique and unforgettable experience as we invite you to join us for a 2.5-hour sail and snorkel on our traditional Hawaiian double-hull sailing canoe – the only commercial vessel of its kind.

You will embark on a journey that transcends time and glimpse how Hawaiians covered thousands of miles of open ocean and inter-island travel. Our small, intimate groups ensure a personalized and authentic adventure, allowing you to connect with the beauty of the ocean more than you would if you were packed on a big boat!

Your adventure begins shortly after sunrise at Keauhou Bay, where our skilled crew will welcome you aboard our canoe, Kini Kini. As the sails unfurl, you’ll be transported to a bygone era, where the art of traditional Polynesian navigation was a fundamental way of Hawaiian life. Feel the synergy of modern comfort and ancient tradition as we glide smoothly over crystal blue waters. We will maintain time with our onboard motor even if the wind isn’t on our side. This means that while ancient Hawaiians paddled dozens of miles to their destinations, you won’t have to lift a finger! The highlight of our journey lies beneath the surface as we take you to a secluded cove where abundant sealife lies before your snorkel lens!

Why choose Eka Canoe Adventures?

You have your pick of many providers for snorkeling in Kona. Why choose us?

• Our small group sizes (12) enable our crew to assist each guest, answer questions, and calm nerves.
• Our professional crew has eyes on you and your family at all times.
• Each seat is its own space; we don’t pack you in like sardines.
• The whole group can hear instructions during the experience.
• Loading/unloading takes just a few minutes, giving you more time for the good stuff.
• Our tour still includes as much snorkeling time as others, but you’ll have the rest of your day for other things.
• Glimpse how ancient Hawaiians navigated vast oceans as you ride in our traditional double-hull canoe.

What to expect

Guests will join us about an hour after sunrise on our Hawaiian double-hull canoe as we depart from Keauhou Bay and head south along the coast. Depending on the ocean and the wind we will cruise along the coastline for 30-45 minutes as we choose from a couple of snorkel locations with optimal conditions. During this time, your professional guides will provide a safety briefing, an introduction to the canoe, and instructions on using snorkel gear (including fitting for gear). Guests will then be guided into the water to begin their 45-60-minute snorkel! A professional guide will be with you in the water at all times, ensuring your safety and pointing out wildlife! The captain will remain close by with the canoe, and guests may return to the canoe at any time. On the return ride to Keauhou Bay, our professional guides will share various geographically and historically significant points of interest along the way, and answer any questions our guests may have! Rx Masks can be made available upon request. Drinks and light snacks will be provided.

Parking is limited (but free of charge). Allow an extra 10 minutes to find parking and walk to your check-in location at the pier! See the link below (or the Reach Us tab) for details.

How to have a great time on a sail and snorkel experience!

• Maintain good vibes – Positive energy makes everything more fun!
• Come prepared – Shade is limited. Bring what you need to be comfortable in the sun!
• Listen to your crew – They will fully prepare you. Please give them your full attention during briefings
• Relax and enjoy – Truly. You’ll be in good hands with our experienced team!
• Arrive on time for your check-in – We genuinely want you with us, but we won’t ruin it for the others

Additional Information

• To book, select a date & time on the calendar to the right
• Check-in 15 minutes before departure at the Keauhou finger pier/dock
• Daytime snorkel tours are shorter than the big boats while still including as much snorkel time as other providers
• Snorkel, masks (normal and Rx), and instructions are provided
• Fins and floatation devices are provided
• All necessary safety equipment is easily accessible on the canoe and discussed in the safety briefing
• Guests will step from the pier directly to the canoe and will only get wet if they are snorkeling
• Bathrooms/Restrooms are available at the harbor, not on the canoe
• You should be able to climb a short, 4-rung ladder back into the canoe unassisted
• If belongings are dropped in the water, our guides will attempt to recover them but make no promises

What to Bring

• Towel
• Windbreaker or sweater
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Rash guard/extra T-shirt (for added sun protection)
• Motion sickness medication (as needed; take 30-60 min before the tour starts)
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Waterproof camera (or waterproof cell phone pouch)
• A tote or backpack to hold your belongings

Where to check-in

Click the link below for directions and maps. Check-in is at the Keauhou Bay finger pier at the very end of Kaleiopapa St. Park along Kaleiopapa St. As you walk toward the end of the street toward the water, pass the boat ramp (on your left), follow the rock wall (on your right), and you will come to a small 10-car parking lot and a pier. Look for the yellow and black double-hull canoe at the finger pier! Please allow an extra 10 minutes to find parking and walk to the check-in location!

Cancellation Policy

• You may cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours prior to your tour start time (if booking through our website). Policies vary if you book through a third party. Book directly with us here for the most flexibility.
  • This is a strict policy to allow our team and partners a small window to attempt to fill seats from last-minute cancellations. We appreciate your understanding.
  • You may still cancel without a refund at any time within the 24 hours leading up to your tour.
• Eka Canoe Adventures may cancel a tour if the captain deems the ocean/weather conditions unsafe. A rebook or refund will be offered as quickly as possible. Notification will be via phone call + voicemail and/or through the booking email address.