Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch in Kona, HI

Where does the cruise depart from?

They are located on the Big Island of Hawaii and depart from the Kailua Pier in the heart of Kailua-Kona side approximately seven miles south of Keahole Kona Airport.

What time should we arrive?

Boarding is always 30 minutes before departure. They depart on time and cannot hold the vessel for late arrivals.

What if I've never snorkeled before?

They specialize in accommodating those who are new to snorkeling and non-swimmers. They offer "Snorkeling 101" for beginners or those wanting a refresher course. An array of flotation water toys including ski vests, life jackets, noodles, sea view boards, boogie boards and inner tubes are offered. Their Captains and Crew are First Aid, CPR and LifeGuard certified. There are always at least 3 designated Lifeguards who are on watch while anyone is in the water.

Do you have prescription masks?

Yes, they offer masks with built in prescription lenses ranging from -1.5 to -7.0 at no additional charge.

Can I bring my own mask and gear?

While they encourage their guests to bring their own mask, fins, and snorkels, they DO NOT allow the use of full-face masks on their excursions aboard the vessel. During snorkeling activity, the need for more oxygen requires you to breathe faster. With a full-face mask, some of the exhaled carbon dioxide may not fully exit the device, and it is possible to breathe in the contaminated air that has the potential to lead to unconsciousness and fatalities.

Do you offer SNUBA?

No, they do not offer SNUBA or Power-diving.

Do you offer SCUBA?

Yes. If you're a certified diver, you can SCUBA dive with us for an additional fee. *They are a PADI certified SCUBA resort and have onboard upgrades available for Discover SCUBA and Certified SCUBA dives. Candidates must be at least 12 years of age.

Do you offer wetsuits?

Yes, they offer rental wetsuits. Their water temperature ranges from about 78 - 82 degrees. Most of their guests are comfortable with their swimsuits or a rash guard to keep them from getting chilled, however, they understand that some get chilled more than others and have these suits available for an additional charge of $10.

Can you accommodate wheelchairs?

They are 100% wheel chair accessible on their vessel's lower deck. They require notification by phone when guests are traveling with a wheelchair in order to offer pier parking, as they have only two spaces. If there's space they will note that the guest is using the space and will request that they call the office at boarding time for pier access. The guest will wait at the gate for a crew member to let them onto the pier. They must be traveling with a handicap placard in order to take advantage pier parking. When there's a cruise ship in port they do not have pier parking available. Their customized boarding ramp with portable extensions accommodates all wheelchairs including manual, electric and scooters. The lower deck of the 65-foot catamaran is fully accessible from bow to stern including tables and restrooms. For those that just want to go along for the ride and not participate in snorkeling, special "ride-along" rates are available.

I have special dietary needs, can you accommodate me?

All Gluten Free, Vegan, and Vegetarian meal requests must be called into the office with 48 hours notice via the number located on your e ticket. They do understand that sometimes you cannot let them know within 48 hours notice; in those cases, call them first before ensuring guests that a special meal option is available. They will always do their best to accommodate last minute requests but it's dependent on what their kitchen team can do with less than 48 hours notice.

Will I get sea sick?

The bigger the boat, the more stable it is. The vessel is 65' in length with a 30' beam and the largest boat of their kind on the Kona Coast. It's a totally different experience than being on a smaller boat or a raft. If you know you are prone to seasickness, they recommend you take Bonine or Dramamine the night before and another several hours before your cruise. Please read the directions to see that you are able to take this medication. They carry this on board however it is best to have it in your system prior to boarding. You are more likely to feel better on the lower deck of the vessel as there is less pitch. They also offer complimentary Ginger pills and a Ginger drink which is great for motion sickness and it's all natural.

Do you have bathrooms or showers on board?

Yes, they have three large bathrooms and 2 outdoor fresh water showers on the boat.

Is there any shade on your boat?

Yes, the Kanoa II has a lower and upper deck with plenty of shaded area as well as areas for sunbathing.

What should I bring with me?

For the snorkel dolphin adventure they recommend you bring your suit, towel, and sunglasses. If you wish to SCUBA, or wish to purchase cocktails or retail items such as underwater cameras or GoPro camera rentals, they recommend you bring extra cash or credit cards. If you are joining them for the Historical Dinner Cruise, they recommend a lightweight jacket and comfortable flat shoes. They accept all major credit cards.

Should I bring sunscreen?

No, unless you have medical reasons to use a specific brand. Body Glove Cruises is the first boat in the state of Hawaii to offer a "Reef Safe" sunscreen that does not harm the coral reef and stays on your skin and not in the ocean. They have several SPF pump stations onboard for complimentary use.

Can we go ashore during our cruise?

No, in order to protect the sensitive coral reefs, marine shoreline and the safety of the guests, no one is allowed to climb onto land. The vessel will act as your private island allowing you to come and go as you please while you enjoy your day at sea.

Do you provide transportation from my hotel or condo?

No, they do not provide transportation.

Will we see whales?

The best opportunity to see whales is between late December and late March when the Humpback Whales migrate to Hawaii from the north Pacific. During that time of year, they offer daily Whale Watching cruises and guarantee sightings or come again Free! There are several other species of whales that live in Hawaiian waters year round and are occasionally seen during one of the cruises.

Will we see dolphins?

There is a 98% chance of seeing dolphins all year round from the boat as they enjoy riding the wake. Dolphin sightings are guaranteed on the Deluxe Snorkel BBQ and Dolphin Watch or come again for FREE!

Where will I find free parking?

You are welcome to park for free at the Office located at the Ilima Court Shopping Center at 75-5629 Kuakini Hwy, Kailua Kona, HI 96740, one block away from the Kailua Pier. You may park at the Hotel King Kamehameha which is closer however, they charge by the hour. Limited handicapped parking stalls are available on the pier with advance reservations. In order to use those spaces guests must be traveling with a handicapped placard and call the Body Glove Cruises office to confirm a space.