The Best Boat Rentals in Kailua-Kona

Expect most private powerboats and RIB-style boats to run about $150–$300 per hour, sportfishing boats about $175–$500 per hour, and luxury yachts or sailing catamarans roughly $300–$800 per hour depending on size, season, and amenities. Per-person trips on larger boats for snorkeling, sunset, manta, or whale-watching commonly range from about $100–$180 per adult. Most charters include a licensed captain, fuel, safety gear, and coolers; many snorkel trips include masks, fins, flotation, and non-alcoholic drinks, while premium vessels may offer catering for an added fee. (getmyboat.com, hawaiinautical.com, bodyglovehawaii.com)

You’ll find a wide mix: center consoles and RIBs for snorkeling and coastal cruising, sportfishing boats for offshore big-game trips, spacious sailing catamarans and yachts for private cruises, and large catamarans that handle big groups with shaded seating, freshwater showers, slides, and optional bar service. (getmyboat.com, bodyglovehawaii.com)

Most visitors opt for a captained trip because local captains know Kona’s afternoon winds, reef lines, and mooring practices, and they handle navigation so you can relax. Limited self-operated options exist, but Hawaii requires anyone operating a motorized vessel to carry a state- and NASBLA-approved boating safety certificate; operators under 16 must be directly supervised by a certified adult 21 or older. Given open-ocean conditions, first-timers in Kona are best served with a captain. (dlnr.hawaii.gov, hawaiianislands.com)

The three most common pickup points are Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor just north of town, the Kailua Pier in Historic Kailua Village, and Keauhou Bay Pier to the south. Many snorkeling and coastal sightseeing cruises use Kailua Pier, manta night snorkel trips often depart Keauhou Bay, and sportfishing and private charters frequently leave from Honokōhau. (dlnr.hawaii.gov, cbigisland.com, danielshawaiiactivities.com, seaparadise.com)

Along the Kona coast you’ll cruise past lava cliffs, sea caves, and coral reefs, with popular stops like Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook Monument. Year-round wildlife sightings include spinner dolphins and green sea turtles; manta rays are a signature after-dark experience; and humpback whales visit seasonally from about December through April, peaking January to March. Clear mornings often deliver glassy conditions and big views of Hualālai and Mauna Loa. (cbigisland.com, en.wikipedia.org, lovebigisland.com)

To operate a motorized vessel in Hawaii state waters, operators must carry proof of completing a NASBLA- and state-approved boating safety course. If your plan includes recreational fishing, note that as of May 2, 2024, nonresidents age 15+ must also hold a Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License, which applies on charter boats as well. Captained trips cover vessel operation for you.

Yes—many Kona tours welcome families, and larger vessels regularly host all ages. U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets are carried on every charter, with child-sized PFDs provided; in Hawaii, children 12 and under must wear a life jacket while a boat is operating or anchored offshore. Captains brief the group on safety at departure and can recommend calmer morning departures for young kids. (bodyglovehawaii.com, dlnr.hawaii.gov)

Private charters commonly allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages (often no glass), and many provide an iced cooler. Larger cruise boats may include soft drinks and snacks and sell beer, wine, or cocktails onboard; some do not allow outside alcohol. If your group wants full catering, several operators can arrange it with advance notice. (humdingersportfishing.com, adventuretourshi.com, torpedotours.com)

Policies vary by vessel. Many charters do not allow pets for safety and wildlife protection reasons, though service animals are often permitted; always ask before booking. If you want dog time before or after your trip, locals use the informal “Kona Dog Beach” near Honokōhau Harbor, but keep pets leashed near turtles and follow posted guidance. (travel-buddies.com, adventuretourshi.com, bringfido.com)

Kona mornings are typically calmer with light seas, while onshore sea breezes and trade-wind influences can make afternoons choppier, especially in winter. If conditions are unsafe, captains will reschedule or cancel; on Getmyboat, refunds or reschedules follow the owner’s posted policy, with a default full refund if you cancel five days or more in advance unless a stricter policy is listed. (wrcc.dri.edu, laulima.hawaii.edu, getmyboat.zendesk.com)

Absolutely. Big group catamarans with shaded seating and onboard bars are available, and many operators customize private charters for birthdays, bachelorette parties, family reunions, and corporate events. Tell your captain what you’re celebrating and they can tailor the route, swim stops, food, and timing.

Boating is year-round, with the calmest seas often in summer and peak whale-watching in winter (December–April, best in January–March). Mornings are usually smoother than afternoons, and weekdays are quieter than weekends. Holiday and event weeks book up early—July 4 brings fireworks over Kailua Bay, early-to-mid October is IRONMAN week with Kailua Pier closures, and early-to-mid November features the Kona Coffee Cultural Festival downtown—so plan ahead. (lovebigisland.com, sunlightonwater.com, spectrumlocalnews.com, ironman.com, konacoffeefest.com)

Half-day trips typically explore the nearshore Kona coast, lava arches, and Keauhou area or focus on a single snorkel site such as Kealakekua Bay with the Captain Cook Monument. Full-day outings add more time for multiple snorkel spots, extended wildlife searching, or deeper runs up or down the coast when conditions allow. Your captain will adjust plans to the day’s wind and swell.

Yes—the manta night snorkel is a Kona original and one of the island’s most popular excursions. Boats usually depart Keauhou Bay for “Manta Village” or run north toward “Manta Heaven” near the airport; operators provide wetsuits, flotation, and snorkel gear, and success rates are high when conditions cooperate. It’s a memorable add-on to any itinerary. (seaparadise.com, mantarayadvocates.com)