On the Water
3–4 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 96% of travelers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$129
per adult
Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides
Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides
Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides
5
Cultural ToursScuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursEco ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Since 1971, Fair Wind has been the leader in snorkel cruises on the Big Island of Hawaii. Cruises include morning and afternoon tours to pristine Kealakekua Bay aboard the spacious Fair Wind II. Enjoy one of Hawaii's top snorkel locations and site of the famous Captain Cook Monument. Perfect for families of all ages and experience levels. Includes (2) 15-ft waterslides and high-jump platform.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides
On the Water
5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 97% of travelers
97% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$193
per adult
Freediving
4–5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 97% of travelers
97% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$178
per adult
Eco Tours
1–2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 92% of travelers
92% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$141
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
3,708 reviews
Excellent
3,243
Very good
334
Average
79
Poor
28
Terrible
26
Mary Jane G
Hilo, HI3 contributions
Jul 2020
This is one of the things that I wanted to do from my bucket list. I usually don't book tourist attractions with companies but since travel outside the state is restricted, I figured I'd give this a try to make my summer a little more fun and support local businesses during this time.
1. Booking through their website is fast and easy. All information needed was posted on their website as well.
2. When we arrived at the site, staff was really professional. We called early (before they even opened) to ask where to park. The guy opened the check-in office early for us. The captain and crew member arrived early as well to prepare the boat. They are also very helpful (providing equipment, helping load our cooler) and knowledgable about the tour.
3. The experience was everything I thought it would be and so much more. We left the dock on time. It was a little gloomy with dark clouds and a little shower when the day started but that didn't affect our plans. We stopped at 3 different spots to snorkel. Every spot was pristine. There were so many fishes and coral reefs. We also spotted some dolphins (we saw at least 6) while the boat was moving. The views of the Kona coast was also breathtaking.
4. The boat was just perfect. There's plenty of space for all 6 guests, captain, and crew member. It was clean. There's a bathroom, cooler with ice (to store our foods and drinks), upper and lower deck to find the perfect view during the ride, and a freshwater hose to rinse after swimming.
Overall, I would highly recommend going on this tour. We really enjoyed our time during the tour and we truly appreciate the hospitality of everyone from this tour.
1. Booking through their website is fast and easy. All information needed was posted on their website as well.
2. When we arrived at the site, staff was really professional. We called early (before they even opened) to ask where to park. The guy opened the check-in office early for us. The captain and crew member arrived early as well to prepare the boat. They are also very helpful (providing equipment, helping load our cooler) and knowledgable about the tour.
3. The experience was everything I thought it would be and so much more. We left the dock on time. It was a little gloomy with dark clouds and a little shower when the day started but that didn't affect our plans. We stopped at 3 different spots to snorkel. Every spot was pristine. There were so many fishes and coral reefs. We also spotted some dolphins (we saw at least 6) while the boat was moving. The views of the Kona coast was also breathtaking.
4. The boat was just perfect. There's plenty of space for all 6 guests, captain, and crew member. It was clean. There's a bathroom, cooler with ice (to store our foods and drinks), upper and lower deck to find the perfect view during the ride, and a freshwater hose to rinse after swimming.
Overall, I would highly recommend going on this tour. We really enjoyed our time during the tour and we truly appreciate the hospitality of everyone from this tour.
Written July 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
klp281
Boston, MA59 contributions
Dec 2019
Our family of 5 (kids 11, 10 and 5) took the afternoon snorkel cruise. A great time was had by all! Though the boat accommodated a lot of people, it did not seem crowded, nor did the snorkel area. Life jackets, swim noodles and tubes were provided for less confident swimmers, and the staff was vigilantly watching the area at all times to ensure everyone's safety. The slides and diving platform were also great fun for everyone. Highly recommend!
Written January 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Seth E
Redding, CA9 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
The night Manta Ray snorkel was amazing. The Captain and crew did a great job of providing good information about the Mantas, what to expect and what they expected of us to have a great time and respect the Mantas. 20/10 would definitely recommend this to others and will be back to do it again.
Written November 16, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jdholder
Irvine, CA4 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
This tour has been a family favorite since I was a kid. The bay and private moorage was always a treat. The consistency of experience was to be expected. The BBQ at the end of the experience was special. A freshly grilled cheese burger or hot dog just tasted better after being in the sun, snorkeling for a few hours. It was one of the key highlights of the experience. Now however, these guys have gone full woke and VEGAN only.
I respect a company’s decision regarding environmentalism, and of course they have the freedom to run their company the way they see fit. However, they do not have the freedom to verbally berate a long standing customer and use profanity in an email when that customer informs them that their vegan menu decision has negative consequences. And yet this is exactly what this company does.
I’ll no longer support them, and will make sure to reveal to all my Kohala Coast friends how they really feel about us tourists.
Again, their menu choices are their decision, the way they respond is their decision. And their decisions have consequences.
I respect a company’s decision regarding environmentalism, and of course they have the freedom to run their company the way they see fit. However, they do not have the freedom to verbally berate a long standing customer and use profanity in an email when that customer informs them that their vegan menu decision has negative consequences. And yet this is exactly what this company does.
I’ll no longer support them, and will make sure to reveal to all my Kohala Coast friends how they really feel about us tourists.
Again, their menu choices are their decision, the way they respond is their decision. And their decisions have consequences.
Written April 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jasmine A
Milwaukee, WI26 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
This snorkel cruise exceeded our expectations. We had three generations on board (ages 15 to 77) and everyone loved it! The crew is highly professional and caring. The snorkel equipment provided is excellent and the boat has steps leading into the water which makes for an easy entry and exit. The water was clear and we saw a wide variety of fish. We appreciated the commitment to sustainability and acknowledgment of Hawaiian history and present use of the island. The vegan breakfast and lunch were tasty. Highly recommend and if we are lucky enough to come back we will definitely sign up again!
Written December 31, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amanda W
8 contributions
Mar 2023 • Family
Amazing snorkeling and boat but bring your own food. Their food is inedible, even by my sister who can usually eat anything. Getting out of the water hungry and not having anything that anyone in the family liked was terrible.
Written March 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Irvin M
3 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
The crew was attentive, Informative, and helpful by answering questions and providing lots of knowledge. Our excursion had the best experience as we got to see a cluster of pilot whales migrating. The captain and crew were excited and gave us a great experience watching these beautiful whales. We saw many female with their babies.
Written May 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We sincerely appreciate your kind review of Fair Wind Cruises. It's fantastic to hear that our cruise exceeded your expectations and that you were able to see pilot whales - such a fantastic sight!
Written June 7, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Doug F
2 contributions
Jan 2022
I could write so many things about what an amazing experience we had this day The staff accommodating the late idiot (me) who just made it in time for the trip, Joe giving my son the confidence to Snuba for the first time with me, and whoever was able to talk my wife (deathly afraid of the ocean) and sister-in-law into getting into the water and having the time of their life are just a few of the highlights. I missed that since the snuba started just a few minutes before the snorkelers got into the water. But whoever it was deserves my many thanks. This is by far one of the best run operations I have seen and the staff is second to none. Best customer service ever. I will definitely visit again.
Written February 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo! We are thrilled to be a part of a day with so many positive experiences! We look forward to welcoming you back in the future!
Written February 15, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Boris
1 contribution
Mar 2023 • Couples
Great day snorkeling with their company. Had 2 nice stops and had 2 hours of total snorkeling. Very organized and professional crew who took really good care of the guests to make sure everyone had a good time. We really enjoyed the trip and would recommend it to anyone visiting the big island!
Written March 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo for your kind words! We're so pleased to hear that you have a great time and we hope to see you again soon!
Written June 5, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dale B
2 contributions
Oct 2021
Fair Winds absolutely rules for snorkel tours from Keahou Bay, Kailua-Kona. We just just got back from another perfect morning; they are one of our traditional Big Island activities. Lots of tours will take you to Kealakekua Bay, which is beautiful and has tons of fish to see, but Fair Winds has been doing this for literally *decades* and they have the whole experience perfected. Because of their seniority, they have literally the best mooring spot in the bay. Their crew is knowledgeable, upbeat, helpful and very safety conscious. They help visitors of all ages feel safe, relaxed, and happy, and they have plenty of equipment to support that. They are also very environmentally sensitive (without being obnoxious)—we really appreciate their efforts to protect the coral and the environment. You can’t do better.
Written October 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Where are good places to park for the morning cruise?
Written November 25, 2022
Can I go snorkeling even if I don't know how to swim?
Written June 30, 2021
The Sheridan hotel is with in walking distance to Fair Winds and Hula Kai. I do not think they pick up at hotels. Get there early just for the parking.
Written June 30, 2021
Do they pick up at hotels? Will be there in May, staying at King Kame.
Written January 24, 2020
Fair Wind
Keauhou, Hawaii
Aloha,
Unfortunately, no, we do not offer transportation. The King Kamehameha Hotel is about a 20-25 minute drive to Keauhou Bay.
Mahalo
Written January 27, 2020
I'd like to want for morning snorkeling. I entered SAVE10, which is a discount code, and the message 'Promotional Code invalid or not applicable to this activity" is displayed. Is it OK that you are one person and have no experience in snorkeling and do not speak English? Is it from Konacost?
Written August 10, 2019
Fair Wind
Keauhou, Hawaii
Aloha,
It sounds like you might be trying to book a cruise that isn't apart of our website special.
The "SAVE10" is only good for the Fair Wind II Afternoon Snorkel Cruise (beginner-friendly) and our Hula Kai Deluxe Morning Snorkel Cruise (experienced snorkelers). Yes, it is okay to only have one person on your reservation.
If you are trying to book either of these and it is still not working, please call our office at 808-322-2788.
Mahalo!
Written August 12, 2019
where is the pickup point? how early should we arrive for a 9am cruise? thank you.
Written April 25, 2019
Fair Wind
Keauhou, Hawaii
Aloha,
Check-in is at our office in Keauhou Bay, right next to the pier. If you received an email confirmation, there would be directions included at the bottom. If you did not receive an email, please give us a call, and we can send that over. We are also happy to help you over the phone if you're having trouble finding us. Check-in is 30-minutes before departure time.
We can be reached at 808-322-2788.
Mahalo!
Written April 25, 2019
Is the adult price for 18 and up and child rate any age less than that?
Written February 25, 2019
Fair Wind
Keauhou, Hawaii
Aloha,
Our adult price is for anyone over the age of 12. We also have a rate for children 4-12 and toddlers 0-3 years old.
Mahalo!
Written February 25, 2019
Thanks for you help, one more question....Your evening Manta adventure is listing an activity time of 6:30. Is that accurate? That seems too early to enjoy mantas in the dark.
Written July 2, 2018
Fair Wind
Keauhou, Hawaii
Aloha,
Great question! The Manta Departure times change throughout the year depending on what time the sun sets. Right now, in July, the cruise departs at 6:30 pm but you wouldn't be entering the water until about 7:00 (after the Manta education and safety briefings). By then, it gets dark pretty quickly.
Written July 3, 2018
How many passengers do you take on the night manta snorkel?
Written July 2, 2018
Fair Wind
Keauhou, Hawaii
Aloha,
We will take a maximum of 26 snorkelers on the Manta excursion.
Written July 2, 2018
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