Manta Ray Night Snorkel

What Is Not Included?

Meeting Location

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Yes, all tours are by appointment and advance purchase. Advance preparations for food, equipment and staffing don't permit "walk in" guests on the day of the trip.

What is included in the tax collected?

The tax rate of 7.166% includes a 4.166% state tax and 3% harbor fee.

What should I bring along?

Come to the our launch site wearing your bathing suit and bring a towel to leave in your car. Please note there will be no changing rooms or bathrooms available at the meeting spot.

Are there any age or fitness requirements?

Our typical Manta Ray snorkel guest ranges in age from 10 to 65 and for about 95% of them, it is their first experience. We do not allow children under 10 as they may have difficulties with the adventurous nature of this trip. Through the help of your guide the tour is designed to be comfortable for the novice and effortless for the experienced - allowing you to focus on the Manta experience. We move at a relaxed pace, focusing on the Mantas that may come our way. The physical output is low - similar to walking/hiking - so you don't have to be an athlete to participate, but you should be of moderate fitness with no major mobility constraints. Note that participants over 300 lbs should click on the "Contact AdvParadise" link to discuss appropriate accommodations prior to booking.

Are there any weight restrictions?

A tandem kayak can accommodate 500 lbs between two passengers. The combined weight of both passengers cannot exceed 500 pounds. We do have special single kayaks that can accommodate an individual of up to 350 pounds. Participants over 300 lbs should click on the "Contact AdvParadise" link to discuss accommodates with the seller directly prior to booking.

What kind of kayaks do you use?

We use open-deck kayaks: boats uniquely designed for your enjoyment in Hawaiian waters. Stable and easy to enter and exit, these boats are ideally suited for ocean paddling and snorkeling. Closed decked kayaks are not suitable for easy entry and exit from our mooring location. We also will provide you with a quality mask, snorkel and fins, wetsuits, and underwater flashlights at no extra charge.

What time is the Manta Snorkel?

We meet at sunset for the Manta Ray tour. Sunset times vary throughout the year, so please check our schedule for up-to-date departure times.

What exactly will we do on the tour?

We recommend leaving any fragile/non-waterproof items in your vehicle. Kayaking takes about 15 minutes to where we snorkel with the Mantas. Your guide will moor your kayaks (tie them to an object in the water with rope) and you will enter the water from the kayak and then snorkel for 45 minutes to an hour, accompanied by your guide. Your return to shore will take about 15 minutes and there we will enjoy some hot cider and snacks before you depart for home.

What happens if we do not see Mantas - is there any sort of guarantee?

No. We see mantas most of the time; however, in the event that we do not, we do not offer refunds.

What happens if it rains?

We paddle in rain or shine. Sea life is seen regardless of weather conditions and we always ensure a special trip regardless of perfect visibility. We cancel our trips infrequently but when winds become too high or it rains too hard we will cancel a trip for safety and/or comfort reasons. If that does happen, you will be able to reschedule or receive credit for a future tour.

Are pets allowed?

No, we cannot accommodate the unique needs of pets at this time.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?

Our tours are safe and we will match stronger paddlers with weaker ones to ensure competent control of your vessel at all times. Normally women in early stages of their pregnancy should have no problem - however, if you have a concern, it is best to consult your doctor before attending. We do not recommend that women who are over 2 months pregnant take this trip.

Will there be a guide kayaking with us?

Yes. Each trip includes a guide who also has CPR & First Aid training. Our guides are ocean enthusiasts and share their love of the area on each trip.

Do I need to know how to swim?

No, but you will need to be comfortable in an ocean environment. If you are fearful of the water, this might not be a good choice for you. All our guests are asked to wear USCG approved life vests both while paddling and snorkeling.

Do I need to have kayaked before to enjoy this trip?

We cater to beginners and most of our guests are new to kayaking. Due to the nature of our trip and the type of kayaks we use, experience in kayaking is not required for the trip.

How old should my children be to snorkel with the Mantas?

We do not allow children under 10 as they may have difficulties with the adventurous nature of this trip.

What if I don't want to snorkel?

You are welcome to stay in your kayak during the snorkeling portion of the tour if you'd like. There is no reduced rate for those who do not wish to snorkel though.

Can I have a single kayak?

Unfortunately we paddle only with tandem (double) kayaks. If you are alone we will pair you with another single paddler. The only exception is if you require a special single kayak due to weight constraints (these kayaks can hold up to 350 pounds) - these are only available upon request and with permission from the seller.

Is the kayak safe?

Yes, our open-deck kayaks are the safest ones out there - they are the most stable and user friendly. In addition, our CPR and first aid certified guides are always on hand and available. Life jackets must be worn at all times and alcohol or drug use is not permitted at any time.

Are the waters safe?

We paddle in a protected Bay on the leeward side of the Big Island. The Bay is protected from sea conditions throughout the year. When waves or wind warrant, we cancel our trips as needed.

Will I see sharks in the water?

Due to the clarity of the water sharks are not typically seen. What we do see commonly are Mantas, coral and tropical fish.

Can I bring my own food and beverages?

A good assortment of food and refreshments are included on the tour. You will not need or have time for additional food on this tour.

Are there any food or beverages included?

Yes. An assortment of snacks (granola bars, trail mix, etc), bottled water, and hot cider are available on each trip.

Can I bring my own kayak?

Yes. Guests can also bring their own snorkel gear. There are no price reductions for supplying your own gear.

What should I wear?

You should be dressed in your bathing suit before you arrive and ready to enter the kayaks when you arrive. There is no place or time allotted for changing. Please bring a towel to leave in your car.

Should I bring cash?

Our guides depend on tips for their income. A 15-25% gratuity is customary for this activity and much appreciated by hardworking guides. There are no other incidental expenses.

How far out will we go?

We paddle within the protection of a small bay and stay near shore throughout the trip. This trip does not involve open water kayaking. Snorkeling is also close to shore.

Do I have to wear a life vest?

Yes, for safety reasons we require that life jackets be worn at all times during the paddle.

Do I have to sign a liability waiver to participate in the tour?

Yes. All adults must sign waivers and those under 18 must have waivers signed by their parents.

Will I get seasick?

People have gotten seasick before, but the great majority make it through the experience without getting sick. If you are prone to motion sickness or just don't know how the ocean will affect you - you may want to consider taking non drowsy Dramamine or its equivalent at least 2 hours before your trip. It's cheap insurance against getting seasick.

How large a group can you accommodate?

We can accommodate groups of up to 6 people per tour.

Are there any group discounts?

No. Since all trips are limited to just 6 people per night, there are no group discounts.

Are gift certificates available?

Yes. Please click on the "Contact AdvParadise" link to let us know about your interest in a gift certificate.

How can I book a private charter or custom tour?

Contact Adventures in Paradise by clicking on the "Contact AdvParadise" link and tell us your group size and custom tour ideas. We can price a special trip for you.

Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Weather Policy

Activity may be cancelled due to severe weather.

The activity usually runs in light rain and other moderate weather conditions, but the seller may cancel the activity up to an hour before the start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. If the seller cancels the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability) or receive credit for a future event.

Other Policies

Tax collected includes state tax and a harbor fee.

Tax collected includes a 4.166% state tax and a 3% harbor fee.

Children under 10 are not permitted and all guests must be moderately fit.

For safety reasons, this trip is only recommended for participants ages 10 and up who are moderately fit. All participants will be required to wear a life jacket for the duration of the trip.

The tour is not recommended for women over 2 months pregnant or for those with limited mobility.

For safety reasons, we do not recommend that women over 2 months pregnant take the tour. Any women in early stages of pregnancy should consult a doctor if they have any concerns about participating. We also do not recommend the tour for those who have health or mobility problems such as back, knee or leg problems. Please consult a doctor if you have any concerns about participating.

All kayaks are tandem and can support a combined weight of 500 pounds.

The kayaks used on the tour are double (tandem) kayaks and can support 500 pounds between two people. Larger individuals who have a concern about this weight limitation should get special permission from the seller to use a single kayak that can accommodate up to 350 pounds before purchasing tickets.

All participants must sign a liability waiver.

All guests will be asked to sign a liability waiver at the start of the tour. Any participants under the age of 18 must have waivers signed by their parents or guardians.

Parties of 4 or more pay Adventures in Paradise directly for advance guide gratuity charge of 15%.

Adventures in Paradise will contact groups of 4 or more after your purchase to take your credit card information for the advance gratuity charge of 15%.

Adventures in Paradise