Puako Manta Reef Dive | One Tank and Snorkeling
The Briefing
Mission Parameters
OPS FORMAT
One-tank dive or surface reconnaissance (snorkeling)
DURATION
2 hours
CREW LIMIT
6 explorers max
DIVER CLEARANCE
Certified divers only. Rookie status accepted.
MEETING LOCATION
South Kawaihae Small Boat Harbor
Kawaihae Rd, Waimea, HI 96743
PRICING
Intimate manta encounters with only six guests on board
Dive or snorkel. Both offer close passes, rolls, and belly-to-belly encounters
Far from Kona's crowded boats, with a private mission feel
Evening departure timed with sunset for surreal light and calm seas
Backed by The Manta Guarantee: return at no additional cost until you see them
This two-hour excursion reveals Hawai'i's most surreal encounter. Gliding alongside friendly manta rays. In the waters off Puako (far from Kona's crowded sites) manta rays gather in an otherworldly dance of light and motion.
Divers settle below as mantas sweep silently overhead, sometimes close enough that their bellies brush across your head as they pass.
Snorkelers float at the surface, where the mantas roll and spin just inches away, often pressing belly-to-belly in unforgettable encounters.
With only six guests on board, every trip feels like a private mission into another realm. Respect for the ocean comes first, intimacy follows naturally, and memories from this dive will stay with you long after you brush with these creatures.
As one of the most sought-after Big Island experiences, the Puako manta ray dive offers a rare chance to see Hawai'i's manta rays up close in their natural habitat.
This manta night dive and snorkel adventure is a quieter alternative to Kona's crowded tours, giving you a front-row seat to one of the best wildlife encounters in Hawai'i.
Certified divers and snorkelers alike find that Puako's manta reef delivers encounters so extraordinary, each night reveals a different side of these giants.
All gear is included. If you would like to, you may bring your own gear.
Sample Agenda
If sunset is 6:30pm:
5:00pm - Meet at the boat
5:30pm - Boat departure
7:30pm - Arrive at harbor
Times are subject to change daily with sunset. Boat departs ~60 minutes before sunset.
Gear & Requirements
All essential dive gear included (BCDs, regulators, tanks, weight, masks, fins, wetsuits)
Guests may bring personal equipment if preferred
Age requirement: 10+
Proof of certification required for all divers (visual check before departure)
Policies & Guarantees
Certified Divers Only
All guests who are diving must bring proof of certification. Newly certified divers are welcome, even if this is your first ocean dive.
The Manta Guarantee
If you don't see mantas on your dive, you're invited back at no charge until you do. We will also honor Blue Wilderness's original manta guarantee for guests who dove under that name.
Rescheduling for Weather
During the event of inclement weather, we will attempt to reschedule, especially in the winter months. Should rescheduling not be available, then a full refund or credit for one dive will be issued.
Cancellation
Full refund if cancelled at least 24-hours prior to meeting time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. All divers must show proof of certification. Newly certified divers are welcome, even if it’s your first ocean dive.
Yes. Snorkeling is available on select tours and includes all required gear.
No more than six (6) guests and two (2) staff, ensuring an intimate and uncrowded experience.
Accessibility (Divers & Snorkelers)
There are two ladders for getting in and out of the boat. Guests must be able to climb these ladders without assistance. Those with knee problems, recent surgeries, or heart conditions should consult their doctor before booking.All dive or snorkel gear is included. You may bring your own if you prefer.
We’ll attempt to reschedule. If rescheduling isn’t possible, you’ll receive a full refund or credit.