Fair Wind Cruises' Hula Kai - Snorkel & Whale Watches Along the South Kona Coast

There are hundreds of snorkel, dive and whale watch vessels in Hawaii. They range in size from large powered cruise vessels which hold hundreds to small boats or outriggers powered only by sail.

One of the most popular types of vessels is a 50' to 60' catamaran that takes a group of 40-60 guests out for a sail, snorkel swim with breakfast or lunch available. Many of these same boats operate whale watches during whale season.

There are a number of excellent companies which operate these types of ocean activities. Several of the best are Teralani and Trilogy on Maui, Red Sail on the Big Island, and Wild Side Tours on Oahu to name just a few. You won't be disappointed sailing with any of these that I have mentioned.

There is, however, one company that has, as Emeril Lagasse might say, "kicked it up a notch." That company is Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides on the Big Island of Hawaii. Fair Wind makes daily snorkel and scuba dive cruises (and whale watch cruises in season) along the South Kona Coast of the Big Island, departing from Keauhou Bay, just a 15-minute drive from Kailua Kona.

Fair Wind has been around since 1971 and has weathered some difficult times in the hospitality industry emerging from each even stronger than before. Their most serious setback occurred in 1992 when their 50-foot trimaran, the Ho'okele, was completely destroyed by large waves from Hurricane Iniki.

Today Fair Wind operates two boats. The Fair Wind II is their older boat, having entered service in 1994. It's a 60-foot aluminum catamaran with covered deck, 15-foot water slide, high jump platform and most of the amenities you'll find on other similar vessels in Hawaii. The Fair Wind II is an attractive boat, but can become somewhat crowded in busy seasons.

It's Fair Wind's other vessel, the Hula Kai, that I'd like you to consider for your next visit to the Big Island. It is, quite frankly, unlike any other boat you've been on and, without question, the most modern boat sailing in Hawaii today. With all of the bells and whistles I'll mention, you see that with the Hula Kai, Fair Wind has definitely "kicked it up a notch."

Hula Kai has been exclusively designed to accommodate Fair Wind Cruises growing luxury market seeking the finest in comfort and technology. Hula Kai seats approximately forty-two adult-only passengers and transports guests daily to unique marine locations along the spectacular Kona Coast. Guests aboard the Hula Kai are treated to snorkeling, scuba, sightseeing and whale watching.

Utilizing their extensive local knowledge of varying ocean and coastline conditions, Hula Km captains select the perfect snorkel and dive destinations for each day.

Guests aboard Hula Kai are treated to scenic highlights that include underwater lava arches, historic lava flows and sea caves. Dolphins, whales, manta rays and an abundance of fish, including tangs and triggers, round out this luxurious adventure. The experienced ocean guides are onboard to personally assist passengers including those who have never snorkeled before. Safety and respect for the delicate ocean environment are emphasized.

Special prepared gourmet offerings will highlight the day’s activities aboard Hula Kai starting with a breakfast of hand-made frittatas, croissants, yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, juices and freshly brewed Dant Estate Kona coffee. The hearty lunch menu features Angus-burgers, potato salad, fresh green salad, marinated chicken strips, veggie burgers and homemade brownies. Complimentary juice, 100% Kona Coffee, soda, beer and wine are provided.

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