Top 12 Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona Tours for 2025

Imagine floating in the dark, warm waters of the Pacific as giant, graceful manta rays glide and dance below you in a mesmerizing ballet. This isn't a dream-it's the world-famous manta ray night snorkel in Kona, a truly bucket-list experience on Hawaii's Big Island. Choosing the right tour is crucial for making this magical encounter everything you hope it will be. With so many options, from large catamarans to intimate canoe trips, it can be overwhelming to decide. This guide breaks down the 12 best tour options, providing practical insights to help you select the perfect adventure.

We'll explore what makes each tour unique, what to expect, and how to prepare for an unforgettable night with these gentle giants. As the top rated & most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, we at Kona Snorkel Trips know what makes a manta tour exceptional.

To ensure you have the best possible experience, we recommend booking your tour with a reputable operator. For a top-tier manta ray snorkel, consider booking directly with Kona Snorkel Trips. When looking for a Manta Ray night snorkel tour, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative worth considering.

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kona, HI (Big Island)

Kona Snorkel Trips offers a premier manta ray night snorkel in Kona that stands out for its comprehensive approach to safety, customer satisfaction, and ecological responsibility. This tour is operated by Hawaii's highest-rated and most reviewed snorkel company, providing a level of trust and quality assurance that is difficult to match. The experience is expertly curated to deliver a memorable and seamless adventure from start to finish.

What truly distinguishes this offering is the company's "Free Manta Guarantee," a bold promise that you will see manta rays or be invited back for another trip at no cost. This policy removes the risk of a no-show night and underscores their confidence in providing an authentic wildlife encounter. Departing from the convenient Honokohau Harbor, the approximately 2-hour tour is efficient yet immersive, making it an ideal choice for travelers with packed itineraries.

Led by knowledgeable and safety-conscious guides, every aspect of the tour is handled with professionalism. All essential snorkeling gear, including high-quality masks, snorkels, and wetsuits, is provided, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience for everyone from novice snorkelers to seasoned marine enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• 'Free Manta Guarantee': Ensures a manta ray sighting or a complimentary return trip.
• Expert Guidance: Led by highly-trained guides focused on safety and marine education.
• All-Inclusive Gear: High-quality wetsuits, masks, and snorkels are provided.
• Top-Rated Operator: Run by Kona Snorkel Trips, a leader in customer satisfaction.

For those seeking a reliable and unforgettable manta ray night snorkel, this tour package delivers an exceptional and well-rounded experience.

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Visit Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/snorkel-tours/manta-ray-snorkel-kona/

2. Big Island Divers

Big Island Divers is a highly reputable operator known for both its scuba diving and snorkeling tours, making it a reliable choice for mixed groups of divers and snorkelers. Their website clearly outlines options for the manta ray night snorkel in Kona, including a unique two-tank trip combining a twilight reef dive with the main manta event. This makes it ideal for certified divers who want to maximize their time in the water. The platform is straightforward, providing essential details like a manta sighting calendar to help you plan.

What truly sets them apart is their "Manta Guarantee." If you don't see any mantas, you can rebook for free on a standby basis, offering peace of mind for your investment.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Snorkel trips are approximately $149, with multi-tank dive options available. Be aware that gear rental, taxes, and fees are extra.
• Booking Experience: The site offers clear tour descriptions and an easy booking process. Their policies, like the manta guarantee, are well-defined.
• Unique Offerings: The 2-tank twilight and manta dive is a standout feature for certified divers. Their strong safety reputation is a major plus for all participants. You can find additional details about Big Island Divers and how they compare to other local operators.
• Pros: Strong reputation, excellent for mixed groups (divers/snorkelers), and a clear rebooking policy.
• Cons: Rebooking is standby only unless you pay 50% for a guaranteed spot.

Website: https://bigislanddivers.com/charters/manta-ray-night-dives/

3. Kona Honu Divers

Kona Honu Divers is a premium, award-winning operator with a strong focus on the scuba diving experience. Their website prominently features a two-tank manta night dive charter, making it an excellent choice for certified divers who want a comprehensive underwater adventure. The site is professionally designed, offering detailed charter information and showcasing their well-equipped, comfortable boats that often include amenities like hot-water showers, a significant plus after a night in the ocean.

What makes this operator stand out for serious divers is the inclusion of free Nitrox for those who are certified, allowing for longer bottom times. While they offer an excellent manta ray night snorkel in Kona, their primary audience is the experienced diver looking for top-tier service and comfort. Their strong safety record and highly experienced staff provide confidence for all participants.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Pricing is premium, reflecting the high-quality service and amenities. Snorkel and dive prices vary, and gear rental is typically an additional cost.
• Booking Experience: The website provides a clear path to book charters, with detailed descriptions of what's included. Policies, like dive experience requirements, are clearly stated.
• Unique Offerings: The two-tank manta dive and free Nitrox for certified divers are major draws. The comfort-focused boats with showers set them apart.
• Pros: Award-winning operator with excellent reviews, well-maintained boats with premium amenities, and a focus on diver comfort and safety.
• Cons: Snorkel options are less prominent than dive charters, and pricing is at the higher end. A recent dive may be required to participate.

Website: https://konahonudivers.com/

4. Jack’s Diving Locker

Jack’s Diving Locker is a pioneer in Kona's dive scene, offering an experience deeply rooted in education and professionalism. Their website caters to both serious divers and snorkelers, providing options for a guided manta ray night snorkel in Kona and a more intensive two-tank dive trip. This makes them an excellent choice for certified divers or anyone looking to learn more about manta rays from true experts, including experienced manta naturalists on staff.

What truly distinguishes Jack's is their commitment to education. They authored the PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty course, showcasing their deep expertise and making them a premier destination for those who want a truly informative and professional manta encounter.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Snorkel trips are priced higher than some competitors, but include food and beverages. Check the website for current rates.
• Booking Experience: The site provides clear trip details, seasonally set meeting times, and excellent customer support. Booking is straightforward.
• Unique Offerings: The PADI Manta Ray Diver Specialty course is a unique educational opportunity. Their focus on expert-led tours is a major draw. For other high-quality tours on the Big Island, you can learn more about other operators in Kona.
• Pros: Deep expertise and a strong focus on education, combined trips for divers and snorkelers.
• Cons: Higher price point for snorkelers, operates on set days rather than nightly.

Website: https://www.jacksdivinglocker.com/en/manta-ray-night-dive-and-snorkel

5. Sea Quest Hawaii

Sea Quest Hawaii specializes in small-group tours on rigid-hull inflatable rafts, offering a more intimate and adventurous way to experience the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website highlights the efficiency of these tours, which depart from Keauhou Bay for a very short transit time to the Manta Village site. This quick trip maximizes your time in the water with the mantas, making it a great option for those who want a focused, high-energy experience without a long boat ride.

What truly sets them apart is the zodiac-style boat, which provides a thrilling ride and gets you to the action fast. The 1.5-hour "Night Manta Experience" is perfect for fitting into a packed vacation schedule.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Tour prices fluctuate seasonally, but you can expect to pay around $130-$150 per person. Private charter options are also available.
• Booking Experience: The website is user-friendly, with a clear booking calendar and detailed safety requirements. It's easy to see availability and secure your spot online.
• Unique Offerings: The small-group raft is the key differentiator, creating a less crowded feel. They also provide wetsuits and post-snorkel treats like hot chocolate and cookies. If you're looking for a top-rated alternative, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional choice.
• Pros: Very short boat ride to the manta site, efficient tour duration, and a more personal small-group setting.
• Cons: The raft ride can be bouncy and is not suitable for non-swimmers, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

Website: https://www.seaquesthawaii.com/snorkeling-tours/night-manta-experience/

6. Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise offers a classic manta ray night snorkel in Kona aboard their spacious 50-foot catamaran, making it an excellent choice for families and those prioritizing comfort. Departing from Keauhou Bay, their website clearly details the 1.5 to 2-hour tour, highlighting the stability of their large vessel, which is a significant plus for guests concerned about seasickness. The booking platform is user-friendly, presenting multiple nightly departure times and transparently including snacks and drinks in the price.

Their long-standing operation and "Manta Guarantee" provide assurance for a quality experience. If no mantas are seen, guests can rebook for a future trip on a space-available basis, which is a common and appreciated policy among top operators.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Tours are generally around $149 per person, with clear inclusions like snacks, drinks, and all necessary snorkel gear.
• Booking Experience: The website provides a smooth and straightforward booking process with an easy-to-navigate calendar for availability.
• Unique Offerings: The large, stable catamaran is the main draw, offering a more relaxed and comfortable journey compared to smaller raft-style boats.
• Pros: Comfortable and stable vessel ideal for families, clear pricing, and a reliable Manta Guarantee from a well-established company.
• Cons: Group sizes can be larger, and they have a strict policy against phone neck lanyards for safety reasons.

Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/manta-ray-night-snorkel/

7. Fair Wind Cruises (Hula Kai)

Fair Wind Cruises offers a first-class manta ray night snorkel in Kona aboard their Hula Kai catamaran, known for its quick 5-minute ride from Keauhou Bay to the manta site. Their website highlights a comfortable and efficient experience, making it ideal for families or those seeking a streamlined outing. The platform clearly details the amenities provided, such as hot drinks, vegan soup, prescription masks, and wetsuits, ensuring guests know what to expect from this premium tour.

What sets them apart is their focus on a high-end, comfortable experience with a very short transit time, maximizing your time in the water with the mantas. For those looking for a similar top-tier experience, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii is an exceptional alternative for your adventure.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: The 1.5-hour tour is competitively priced, with all essential gear like wetsuits included.
• Booking Experience: The website is user-friendly, providing a straightforward booking process with clear information on what's included and required for the tour.
• Unique Offerings: The extremely short boat ride is a major advantage. Onboard comforts like post-snorkel hot soup and the availability of prescription masks enhance the guest experience significantly.
• Pros: Comfortable and stable catamaran, family-friendly amenities, and a highly efficient snorkel experience with minimal travel time.
• Cons: Not wheelchair accessible, and participants are required to have prior snorkeling experience and be competent swimmers.

Website: https://www.fair-wind.com/night-manta-snorkel-tour/

8. Kona Snorkel Trips

Kona Snorkel Trips is a focused operator specializing in snorkel tours, making them a popular choice for those specifically seeking the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website is designed for ease of use, providing clear details about their tours departing from Honokohau Harbor. They emphasize safety and preparedness by explicitly stating prerequisites, ensuring all guests are comfortable and capable in the water. This transparency helps set proper expectations for a successful and enjoyable excursion.

A key advantage is their bundle discount, allowing you to combine the manta ray tour with a daytime snorkeling adventure for significant savings. This is an excellent option for visitors looking to maximize their time exploring Kona's vibrant underwater ecosystems. Their direct booking platform shows dynamic pricing, so booking in advance is often recommended.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Prices are dynamic and vary by demand. Booking bundles with daytime tours can offer the best value. All essential gear is included.
• Booking Experience: The website is straightforward with a clear booking process. Requirements are prominently displayed, which is helpful for families and first-timers.
• Unique Offerings: The ability to bundle tours for a discount is a major benefit. They are also explicit about their participant requirements (age 5+, must swim 50 yards), ensuring a safer experience for all.
• Pros: Clear prerequisites stated upfront, bundle discounts available for savings, and all necessary gear is included.
• Cons: Not suitable for non-swimmers or those with certain medical conditions. Dynamic pricing means costs can fluctuate.

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/snorkel-tours/manta-ray-snorkel-kona/

9. Anelakai Adventures (Double-hull Canoe)

Anelakai Adventures offers the most unique and eco-conscious way to experience the manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website showcases an intimate tour aboard a traditional double-hull outrigger canoe, which is entirely paddle-powered. This motorless approach ensures a silent arrival at the manta site, minimizing disturbance to marine life and creating a serene atmosphere. The site emphasizes their small-group focus, with a maximum of just six guests per trip, providing a stark contrast to the larger, more crowded boat tours.

What truly sets them apart is the cultural and physical connection to the experience. Guests actively participate in paddling the canoe under the guidance of local experts, making the short journey part of the adventure.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Tours are typically around $159 per person, reflecting the highly personalized and small-group nature of the experience.
• Booking Experience: The website is straightforward, highlighting the cultural and ecological aspects of the tour. Due to the extremely limited capacity, booking far in advance is essential.
• Unique Offerings: The human-powered, silent approach is unmatched. It’s an incredibly intimate and respectful way to view the mantas, and the cultural storytelling from the guides adds significant value.
• Pros: Very eco-friendly, no engine noise, extremely small group size for an intimate feel, and a unique cultural component.
• Cons: Requires some physical participation (paddling), and spots are very limited and sell out quickly.

Website: https://www.anelakaiadventures.com/adventures/manta-ray-snorkel-kona

10. Manta Adventures

Manta Adventures offers a well-rounded experience that combines a beautiful Kona sunset cruise with the main event, making it an excellent choice for those wanting more than just the snorkel. Their 24-passenger boat provides a comfortable and stable ride to the site. The website clearly lays out the 3.5-hour tour itinerary, perfect for families and those who appreciate a more leisurely pace for their manta ray night snorkel in Kona. A standout feature is the ride-along option, allowing non-swimmers to enjoy the sunset and boat trip.

They emphasize hygiene with professionally cleaned and sterilized gear, a reassuring detail for many guests. The longer tour duration provides ample time to relax and soak in the coastal views before the thrilling manta encounter begins, making the entire evening a memorable adventure.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Tours are listed clearly on their site, typically starting around $139 for snorkelers and a reduced rate for ride-along observers.
• Booking Experience: The website is straightforward with a simple booking portal. It details what's included, like snacks, drinks, and all necessary snorkel gear.
• Unique Offerings: The combination of a sunset cruise and manta snorkel in a single, extended 3.5-hour tour is their key differentiator. The option for non-snorkeling "observers" is also a great perk for mixed groups.
• Pros: Great for those wanting a sunset cruise experience, family-friendly with observer options, and a consistent nightly schedule.
• Cons: The longer 3.5-hour duration may not be ideal for those on a tight schedule. The group size is larger than a private or small raft tour.

Website: https://mantaadventures.com/tours/manta-night-snorkel/

11. Kona Ocean Experience

Kona Ocean Experience caters to travelers looking for an efficient and intimate manta ray night snorkel in Kona. Their website showcases an "Express" tour, a streamlined 1-hour trip that gets you to the manta site quickly from the convenient Keauhou Harbor. This is perfect for those with packed schedules or families who prefer a shorter, more focused outing on the water. The platform is clean, emphasizing the all-inclusive nature of their tours, where wetsuits and gear are standard.

What sets them apart is their simple, consumer-friendly "Manta Guarantee." If no mantas are seen, you can re-try for free on a space-available basis, providing a straightforward assurance. Their small-group format ensures a less crowded and more personal experience in the water.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: The tour is competitively priced with transparent, all-in costs that include gear and wetsuits, so there are no surprise fees.
• Booking Experience: The website offers a direct and easy booking process, clearly outlining the express itinerary and what’s included.
• Unique Offerings: The 1-hour express trip is a key differentiator for those short on time. They also use a light board to communicate with guests in the water, a unique touch that enhances the small-group feel. You can learn more about what to expect when snorkeling with manta rays in Kona to prepare for your trip.
• Pros: Efficient itinerary, all-inclusive pricing, and a clear, free re-try policy.
• Cons: The shorter duration may feel rushed for some, and the ride-along price is nearly the same as the snorkeler price.

Website: https://konaoceanx.com/tours/night-manta-snorkel/

12. Viator (Marketplace: multiple Kona manta options)

Viator is a major booking aggregator that lists numerous manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences from various local operators. Its primary strength lies in its convenience, allowing you to compare prices, check availability across different companies, and read extensive user reviews all in one place. The platform is especially useful for last-minute bookings when direct operator websites might show no availability. It simplifies planning with mobile ticketing and often provides flexible cancellation policies.

What sets it apart is the ability to see real traveler photos and feedback, which helps in setting expectations and choosing a tour that best fits your needs. This makes it an invaluable research tool before committing to a specific operator.

Key Features and Considerations

• Pricing: Varies widely by operator. Viator's "Lowest Price Guarantee" can be beneficial, but watch for potential third-party markups.
• Booking Experience: User-friendly interface with filters to narrow down choices. The instant confirmation and mobile vouchers add a layer of convenience for travelers.
• Unique Offerings: The platform's main advantage is the sheer volume of choices. From large boats to smaller, more intimate tours, you can find a trip that matches your group size and budget.
• Pros: Great for comparing options and finding availability, extensive user reviews and photos, and transparent cancellation policies on most listings.
• Cons: Potential for higher costs due to third-party fees. You must carefully verify specific operator policies, as they can differ from Viator’s general terms.

Website: https://www.viator.com/tours/Big-Island-of-Hawaii/Manta-Ray-Night-Snorkel-from-Kona/d669-3226MANTA

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel: 12 Provider Comparison

Your Unforgettable Kona Manta Ray Adventure Awaits

Navigating the various options for a manta ray night snorkel Kona experience can seem daunting, but armed with the right information, you are now fully equipped to make an informed decision. We have explored a dozen distinct operators, each offering a unique approach to this bucket-list adventure. From large, family-friendly vessels with ample amenities to intimate, culturally-focused canoe tours, the ideal choice hinges on your specific priorities: group size, comfort level, budget, and desired level of immersion.

The key takeaway is that no two tours are exactly alike. For those seeking a smaller group and personalized attention, operators like Kona Snorkel Trips or Anelakai Adventures stand out. Divers or those seeking certification might gravitate towards established dive shops such as Big Island Divers or Jack’s Diving Locker. Families with young children may find the stability and features of larger boats from companies like Fair Wind Cruises or Sea Paradise more suitable. Your perfect encounter is not about finding the "best" tour, but the best tour for you.

Remember to consider the critical factors we discussed: boat size directly impacts the intimacy of the experience, the type of light board affects your viewing stability, and the location, whether Keauhou Bay or the airport site, offers slightly different conditions. Booking in advance, especially during peak season, is non-negotiable to secure your spot. By evaluating these elements against your personal travel style, you guarantee that your time in the water with these gentle giants will be as magical and memorable as you’ve imagined. This isn't just another excursion; it’s a profound interaction with one of the ocean's most majestic creatures, an experience that will undoubtedly become a highlight of your time on the Big Island.

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Ready to experience the magic for yourself? For a top-rated, small-group adventure that consistently earns rave reviews for its dedicated crew and unforgettable encounters, book your tour with Kona Snorkel Trips. They specialize in creating intimate and respectful manta ray night snorkel Kona experiences that you will cherish for a lifetime.