Quick Details
2 hours
$ 500
3 hours
$ 700
4 hours
$ 900
5 hours
$ 1100
6 hours
$ 1300
Tour Rating
Moderate
to
Advanced
to
Advanced
It depends on where you go. A cruise along the bayfront on a calm day is moderate. A run up the open Hāmākua Coast or a boat dive when the swell is up is advanced. Our captain plans the route around your group and the day’s conditions, and makes the call before we leave the harbor.
Book at your level. Check the rating and the local weather before you book. Be honest about your experience.
About the Charter
Your boat, your crew, your plan. A private charter is built entirely around your group. Tell us what you want out of the day and we plan the route, timing, and crew around it.
Stay inside Hilo Bay, or head past the breakwall up the Hāmākua Coast to sea cliffs, waterfalls, and coves you can only reach by boat. Your licensed captain picks the best route for your goals and the ocean that day.
Families, couples, wedding parties, film crews, researchers, and companies all book this one. If you can describe it, we can probably run it.
Build Your Charter
Pick one, or mix a few. Tell us when you book.
Coastline and Waterfalls
Sea cliffs, waterfalls, and the Hāmākua Coast at your own pace.
Snorkel
Reefs you can only reach by boat, with a guide in the water.
Private Dive
Boat dives for certified divers, led by our divemaster.
Celebrations
Birthdays, proposals, anniversaries, and wedding parties.
Film and Photo
Content shoots and photographers on the water.
Ash Scattering
A quiet, respectful ceremony at sea for someone you love.
What’s Included
Charter Includes
- Licensed captain and crew
- The whole boat for your group
- A route planned around your goals
- Safety briefing and equipment
Snorkel and Dive Rules
- Snorkeling or diving adds a crew member.
- Dives are led by an HOA divemaster, unless an insured divemaster or higher in your group leads.
- Only certified divers can rent scuba gear.
- Non-certified guests can try diving with our instructors.
Ready to plan your day?
Every charter is custom. Call us and we will build it with you.
Requirements & What to Bring
Requirements
- Up to 6 guests.
- Minors ride with a parent or guardian.
- Divers bring their certification card.
- Prone to seasickness? Take medication before the trip, not on the boat.
What to Bring
- Layers for wind and sun
- Hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen
- Swimsuit and towel, if you are getting in
- Snacks or lunch
- Reusable water bottle
- Phone in a waterproof case (we sell them at the shop)
What You Might See
Depends on your route. Here is what charters commonly see.
- Waterfalls and sea cliffs on the Hāmākua Coast.
- Old lava flows and the Hilo bayfront.
- Honu, seabirds, and sometimes spinner dolphins.
- Reefs and dive sites you can only reach by boat.
We give wildlife room.
Spinner dolphins are protected by federal law. We watch them from at least 50 yards and never swim with them. Stay 10 feet from honu.
FAQs
Can we mix activities?
Yes. Cruise the coast and snorkel, or dive and then watch the sunset. Call us with your plan and we will build the route.
How do snorkel and dive charters work?
Getting in the water adds a crew member. Dives are led by our divemaster. Certified divers can rent gear, and non-certified guests can try diving with our instructors.
Can we swim with dolphins?
No. Hawaiian spinner dolphins are protected by federal law, and boats must stay at least 50 yards away. We are happy to watch them from a respectful distance.
Do you do ash scattering?
Yes. Federal rules require burial at sea at least 3 nautical miles from shore. We plan the route and timing so your ceremony is quiet and unhurried.
Can I bring food and drinks?
Yes. Bring snacks or lunch. Ask us about cooler space when you call.
What if the weather is bad?
Our captain makes the call before we leave the harbor. If it is not safe, we do not go, and we will work with you to reschedule.