Big Island Kona: Glass-Bottom Boat Reef Tour & Marine Guide

Summary

Glass-bottom boat ride in Kona to spot reef life & coast views

You’ll board a glass-bottom boat right at Kailua Pier and glide above Kona’s reefs while a local marine guide shares stories about Hawaii’s sea life. Watch tropical fish dart beneath your feet, listen for dolphins or whales if you’re lucky, sip ginger ale, and catch glimpses of Kona’s coastline—all without getting wet. It’s simple but kind of magical in its own way.

What’s the experience like?

We shuffled down the Kailua Pier, sunscreen already sticky on my arms, and there was Marian — blue and yellow flags flapping, looking smaller than I’d pictured. The captain waved us over (I think his name was Tom?), and our guide, Malia, greeted everyone with this big smile that made me feel less awkward about not knowing anyone else. As soon as we stepped onto the glass-bottom boat, the floor turned into an aquarium window. I kept catching myself staring at my shoes like they’d fall through.

The water in Kailua Bay was so clear it felt unreal — like someone had turned up the brightness too much. Malia pointed out these little black-and-yellow fish darting around coral heads; she called them “butterflyfish” but I only remembered because she joked they’re always late for something. At one point a kid pressed his nose to the glass and squealed when a pufferfish floated by — honestly, I almost did too. There was this faint salty smell mixed with ginger ale (they handed some out), and you could hear the hum of the engine under all the chatter.

I didn’t expect to see so much coastline from the boat — you get these quick flashes of green hills behind the town, then suddenly you’re hovering over reef just inches below. Malia told us stories about how Hawaiians used to fish here and pointed out a spot where dolphins sometimes show up (not today though). She answered every question like she’d heard it a thousand times but still cared — even when someone asked if sharks ever come this close (apparently not). The whole thing lasted about 50 minutes but it felt faster, maybe because I kept trying to memorize what everything looked like under that shifting light. I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Glass-bottom boat tour in Kailua Bay

• Depart from Kailua Pier
• Board the glass-bottom boat Marian
• Cruise along Kona coastline
• View coral reef underwater
• Listen to marine naturalist narration
• Spot dolphins or seasonal whales
• Return to pier after 50 minutes

Top questions

Where does the glass-bottom boat tour depart from?

The tour departs from Kailua Pier on the Big Island of Hawaii (Kailua-Kona).

How long is the glass-bottom boat tour?

The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes.

Is there a guide on board?

Yes, there is a knowledgeable marine naturalist providing live commentary during the tour.

Are drinks included on the tour?

Yes, water and ginger ale are provided on board.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, children and infants can join; infants must sit on an adult’s lap and strollers are allowed.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on Marian, the glass-bottom boat.

Do you need to be able to swim for this tour?

No swimming is required; you stay dry throughout the experience.

Where should I check in for boarding?

Check in at the boat 10 minutes before departure; look for blue and yellow flags midway down Kailua Pier on the left side.

What’s included

Your outing includes live narration by a local marine guide aboard Marian, water and ginger ale served during your cruise, access to restroom facilities on board, plus easy check-in right at Kailua Pier—just show up ten minutes early and enjoy watching Hawaii’s underwater world glide by beneath your feet.