Quick Details
Guest
Priced per person
$ 139
About the Tour
Experience the awe of seeing North Pacific Humpback whales (koholā) as they migrate over 6,000 miles from Alaska to Hawai‘i each winter. From December through April, these gentle giants return to the warm, sheltered waters of Hawai‘i to mate, give birth, and raise their calves, making Hilo an incredible vantage point for watching one of nature’s greatest journeys.
Your adventure begins at Wailoa Small Boat Harbor, where your highly experienced captain and crew welcome you aboard our ocean-ready vessel. After a short safety briefing, we’ll set out along Hilo Bay and beyond, scanning the horizon for blows, breaches, and tail slaps. Along the way, your crew will share stories about the cultural significance of koholā in Hawaiian tradition, their unique migration cycle, and the conservation efforts that help protect them today.
Upgrade to our Whale Song Snorkel Package for an unforgettable chance to experience the ocean the way whales do. On calm days, you may enter the water with provided snorkel gear and float peacefully as the songs of koholā echo through the deep. While not guaranteed, hearing these powerful, melodic calls through the water is often described as a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Note: This is an ocean adventure—expect ocean spray, wind, and splashy decks. You will likely get wet!
Why Hilo is Unique
- Hilo’s deep offshore waters provide a peaceful nursery environment where whales often rest, nurse, and teach their calves essential survival behaviors.
- Less boat traffic than Kona creates a calmer, less crowded whale-watching experience.
- Spectacular views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and the lush east-Hawai‘i coastline offer stunning backdrops for photography.
- Cultural stories and Hawaiian knowledge shared by our guides help you understand the deep connection between koholā and the people of Hawai‘i.
What You’ll See
- Humpback whales (koholā) showcasing behaviors such as breaching, tail slapping, spyhopping, and blowing
- Mother-calf pairs resting or practicing coordinated dives
- Possible sightings of spinner dolphins, sea turtles (honu), and seabirds
- Panoramic views of Hilo Bay, Coconut Island, and Hawai‘i Island’s volcanic peaks
- Insights into the ecological and cultural importance of koholā throughout Hawaiian history
Tour Details
- Includes: Boat ride, knowledgeable crew, safety briefing, water, and light snacks.
- Meeting Location: Wailoa Small Boat Harbor. Full details and directions are included in your confirmation email.
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
- Peak Season: Although whales may be seen anytime from December–April, February typically offers the most consistent sightings.
- Whale Sighting Disclaimer: Whales are wild animals and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
- Our Guarantee: If no whales are spotted on your trip, we’ll offer you free rentals for that day and a complimentary rental on a future day as our way of saying mahalo.
- Whale Song Snorkel Upgrade: All snorkel gear included. Water entry is dependent on ocean conditions and is never guaranteed.
- Experience Level: Open to guests 8 and older. Guests should be comfortable on a boat and prepared for ocean conditions.
- Weather: Conditions in Hilo can shift quickly. Light rain is common and part of the adventure!
What to Bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen & sunglasses
- Hat or sun-protective clothing
- Light jacket or layers, it can be breezy offshore
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or phone (waterproof case recommended)
- Snorkel gear (included with upgrade), towel, and optional life jacket