Our second night we were able to have Leanne as our guide and she calls to the Mantas. I was absolutely in awe of their fluidity and how kind she is to them.
I did not have a good experience and would recommend a different tour group.
Leaves fake reviews
5-star review for the owners, Johnny and Kiki. Kiki and her office staff went out of their way to get a group of us in last minute- which left me dumbfounded as to how inappropriately the on-water staff was.
After jumping in and metting us at the snorkel spot (not holding on to the lights as shown in the tour) Brandon started yelling and telling them they had to leave the area. Brandon did not agree with what the guide on-land had told us and instead of allowing us to finish the tour and taking it up with his staff later, he acted erratically, yelling at customers, being arrgessive towards the couple that swam out and made the tour stressful for not only everyone on board but also those in the area.
This review is for the actual tour which I would give a negative star rating if possible. The tour is lead by guide Brandon who, while is intelligent about the ocean and mantra rays, is pushy, rude and unable to handle stress in a professional manner.
These guys are awesome! They took our whole family (13) in two trips (including seniors and young kids) out to swim with the manta rays. One of the coolest things I've ever done! Was very impressed with their knowledge, patience and professionalism. My 5 year old was excited until he jumped in the water, and then he was scared to be in the dark with the big rays ("dad, I don't think I can do this...)... but our guide totally encouraged him and came beside him and helped him feel confident. He ended up staying in the water and loved it -- what an amazing memory.
The staff on the shore (before the boat ride) said it was be alright if a couple in the group swam out to the boat since there wasn't enough seats on board. She even gave them wetsuits to use for free after they offered to rent them. It was dark so they brought lights and took the risk to be able to enjoy the experience together.
Absolutely breathtaking! This crew really knows how to attract the manta rays and keep them coming back. Their system is simple and respectful of the environment unlike other tours, this operator uses live boats instead of anchors, which help put the manta rays at ease because they do not have to weave their around anchor lines. The crew was really helpful, nice and knowledgeable about the wild animal we were witnessing. The rays almost touch you! Highly recommended!!
Leanne, her husband, her son, and Brandon were so hospitable and wanted to ensure we got to see the Mantas up close & personal. Their dedication to OUR experience showed in their invitation to take us out again (after not seeing them the first night).
This was BY FAR the best experience I have had on Hawaii & Kauai.
PS If you're scared of dark water at night I can tell you that this is the best way to experience it--people who know this part of the ocean like the back of their hands.
Tip: Make sure to book early in your trip and to not plan for anything after the tour (because it may take more time to see the Manta Rays--the Mantas aren't always on time). And come with the flexible Hawaiian attitude.
Hawaii Island Ocean Tours is a US Point Of Interest based in Kailua Kona, Hawaii. Hawaii Island Ocean Tours is located at 74-381 Suite E Kealakehe Park Way, Island of, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA.
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