Q. I'm not a strong swimmer and my wife doesn't swim at all. Is this something we can do?

Q. I've never snorkeled before. Will you show me how?

Q. What about sharks?

A. Not a problem. Amazingly, there has been only one shark attack on this side of the island in all of recorded history. The young man was boogie boarding at dusk (wrong time, wrong place). In over ten years of operation, we've seen one member of a non-aggressive species.

Q. Will I see dolphins or whales?

A. Dolphins are frequently seen (more than half the time) on Sea Quest Adventures, but we can't guarantee them. They're not on a track and are free roaming creatures. When we do encounter them, they have been known to approach the raft or surf the wake our engines create. During Humpback season (late December - April), there is a good chance one of these endangered mammals will be seen on our snorkeling trips.

Q. I'm a vegetarian. What do your snacks include?

A. The snacks we serve vary by trip, but none include meat. You may be offered fruit, chips, sweets, or some combination of these. We also offer juices and water for your refreshment. For your safety, Sea Quest is a non-alcoholic adventure.

A. Our snorkel rafts departing from Keauhou Bay do not have a canopy for good reason. A large attraction of these trips is the cave exploration. Not having a canopy increases the number of caves we can check out along the coast. To compensate, we suggest our guests consider bringing a good sunscreen. For some guests, a hat might be a good idea too. If you take the proper precautions, you can easily avoid overexposure. Kona weather typically is cloudy in the afternoon, so those who are very concerned will often choose our 3 hour afternoon trip.

Q. What is meant by a prescription mask?

A. These special masks are designed for people who are near-sighted and come in varying strengths. For those who wear glasses, a prescription mask can greatly enhance their snorkeling experience. For those who wear contacts, a special mask isn't needed. Contacts can be safely worn with a snorkel mask.

Q. What if we have our own snorkel gear?

Q. What about bathrooms?

A. There are no bathrooms on board for our 3 and 4 hour trips. We suggest you plan ahead and take advantage of the ocean when needed. Once on board, your first opportunity to get into the water will be approximately 30-40 minutes into the trip.

Q. We have a group of more than 12 and want to do one of the snorkel trips from Keauhou. Will we have to split up on two rafts?

A. Maybe not. Our 12-passenger rafts are certified to take up to 16.  We can arrange to accommodate larger groups very comfortably.

Q. Can I bring a regular camera?

A Yes. This is not white water rafting. Some people even bring video cameras!

A. Getting into the water is pretty easy - just slide over the side. Thanks to a substantial aluminum ladder, getting back in is also easy.

Q. How deep is it? Can I stand up?

A. The best snorkeling is found in 5-10 feet of water. Kealakekua and Honaunau Bays feature beautiful coral bottoms. To stand would damage the fragile coral you have come to see - not to mention your feet. If you would feel more comfortable wearing a snorkel vest for added floatation, just ask. You will float like a cork!

Q. I get seasick sometimes. Will I get sick on this raft trip?

A. We have fewer problems with seasickness than regular boats and large catamarans because of the open air, fast-moving nature of a raft trip. We don't have that swaying motion that can sometimes effect those on a big boat. But while the raft will effect far fewer guests, there are still people who are strongly susceptible and will get sick no matter what. We suggest an over-the-counter medication for those people to ensure a fun adventure.

Q. How far in advance should I make reservations?

Q. What if I make a reservation and then my plans change?

Q. What are the chances that the trip will be canceled due to poor weather or sea conditions?

A. This is very rare. The Kona Coast is blessed with the best weather, least rain, and calmest seas in the state. The occasional gloomy sky can quickly turn sunny as well. For this reason, should the need arise, Sea Quest reserves the right to determine if the trip will be canceled at the scheduled time of departure. If the trip is canceled, you may reschedule for later (subject to availability) or receive a refund if you have prepaid.

1. A.Yes, the VERY BEST! :o)
   

Q. What’s the difference between Sea Quest eXpress and the Deluxe Afternoon Adventure?

A. Our shorter eXpress Adventure is designed to allow guests with a more limited schedule to snorkel at Kealakekua Bay anytime of the day. With up to three departures a day, anyone can fit a Sea Quest eXpress trip into their schedule. Sea Quest eXpress cannot go in all the caves like our deluxe adventures; however, the raft does have SHADE!