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Experience Zodiac Raft Whale Watching in Hilo, Hawaii
Experience the unforgettable thrill of watching 40-foot (12-meter) humpback whales from a 24-foot (7-meter) Zodiac raft off Hilo in Hawaii; you’ll get an intimate, close-up look at migrating whales while guides observe Hawaiian Marine Park laws by stopping at least 100 yards (90 meters) away, so you can enjoy the sight safely and responsibly, and it’s not uncommon for curious whales to approach and even come right under the raft for a stunning, up-close encounter.
About this activity in Hilo
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- See migrating 40-foot (12 m) humpback whales from a stable 24-foot (7 m) Zodiac for an unforgettable close-up experience in Hilo, Hawaii.
- Observe whales while complying with Hawaiian marine park rules - vessels remain at least 100 yards (90 m) away while animals often approach and investigate the raft.
- Small-group Zodiac format gives you an intimate, front-row vantage perfect for wildlife photography and nature lovers visiting the Big Island.
- Suitable for families and adventure-seekers alike - expect thrilling wildlife encounters in the warm waters off the island’s coast.
Important Information
- Light snacks, bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages are provided on the rafting expedition; local taxes are included.
- Gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off are not included; plan your own transfers to the meeting point.
- Not recommended if you are pregnant or have spinal injuries; the activity is otherwise suitable for a wide range of fitness levels and ages 4 and up.
- Tours operate under Hawaiian marine park regulations to protect whales, so close approaches depend on animal behavior - sightings are common but not guaranteed.
Meeting Point
Meet at the designated Hilo harbor/marina meeting point provided on your booking confirmation - arrival instructions and exact coordinates will be emailed before your tour.
Includes
- Enjoy complimentary beverages-sodas, fruit juices and bottled water-provided during your rafting expedition in Hilo, Hawaii to keep you refreshed on the water.
- Light snacks are included to fuel your adventure here, so you can focus on the scenery and experience without worrying about packing extra food.
- Local taxes are covered as part of the booking for this activity in the region, so the price you see reflects those fees.
Excludes
- Gratuities for guides and staff are not included, allowing you to tip based on the service you receive here.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided as part of the package, so plan your own transfer to and from the launch point.
Other
- This activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the physical nature of the experience.
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or similar conditions; prioritize your safety and consult a medical professional if unsure.
- The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors to the area.
- Minimum age is 4 years - children meeting this requirement are welcome to join the rafting expedition.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
What an amazing day, Captain Rick and his first mate did an excellent job getting us to our site to snorkel. The whole trip was fantastic. Definitely the highlight of my and my wife’s excursions in Hawaii. My only complaint was his first mate. DeVante Made me laugh so hard that by the time we got back to Port, my side hurt.
Rob and Renee Simon
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Summary:
This was a fantastic experience for both myself and my wife. We saw whales in several locations along our approximately two hour ride and seeing them from a zodiac down close to the water is even more special...one even swam right under our zodiac! Our boat crew were very easy going, full of knowledge about the whales we saw and always looking out for our comfort (as best as possible...zodiacs give you a pretty wild ride!). This is truly a worth while experience...worth every dollar!
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Summary:
Took the grandparents and kids on the zodiac whale tour and it was so much fun! The kids said the boat felt like a rollercoaster and we saw 5 humpbacks!! The crew were great with our kiddos too! Highly recommend!
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Know more about Hilo
Watching migrating humpback whales from a 24 foot (7 meter) Zodiac raft offers an unforgettable close-up experience - you view 40 foot (12 meter) whales while following Hawaiian Marine Park laws that require stopping at least 100 yards (90 meters) away. The inflatable raft format brings you close to the action on the ocean, and curious whales will sometimes come right under the boat.
The experience includes beverages (sodas, fruit juices and bottled water), snacks, the rafting expedition itself, and local taxes. Gratuities and hotel pickup and drop off are not included.
Operators comply with Hawaiian Marine Park laws by keeping a minimum 100 yard (90 meter) distance from humpback whales. Despite this regulated distance, the Zodiac raft lets you get a strikingly close visual experience on the ocean, and whales are often curious enough to approach under the boat.
Yes - the rafting expedition is family-friendly and suitable for most fitness levels, with a minimum age of 4 years. You’ll be on a small Zodiac raft that provides an engaging, up-close nature and wildlife encounter ideal for Family & Kids and Tours & Sightseeing experiences.
The activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers or for travelers with spinal injuries. It is otherwise suitable for all physical fitness levels and enforces Hawaiian Marine Park rules, including maintaining at least 100 yards (90 meters) distance from whales.
For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
