First Stop Kona and a Zodiac
Travelling had been so relaxing and calm that I was surprised to find that we were already at our first stop of Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Our ship is tendering today into the port and the passengers are ready to explore this island. We love snorkelling and scuba diving so we planned to find a boat to take us to the best snorkeling spot in the area at Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. The literature we read told us about the amazing sea life we would find in this bay.
We spotted a Zodiac advertising a tour to the Bay, how could we refuse? Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions just happened to have space for two more passengers. The cost was $140 each for a 4-hour.
I had never ridden in a Zodiac before but the crew helped everyone aboard, secured all bags and made sure we all knew what to hold on to during the ride. Our Captain did not waste time as he wanted us to have as much time in the water as possible so off went at top speed.
A Bit of History For the Ride
During the ride aside from the amazing views of the island and the ocean around us the Captain gave us some history about the Bay. He had great stories that entertained and educated us. Stories about Captain Cook who is recognized as the first European to discover Hawaii and as the history books tell us Captain Cook upon a second trip found a safe harbour in Kealakekua Bay which was considered sacred ground. Kealakekua Bay in Hawaiian means ‘the pathway of the God.’ Historically our Captain explained the bay was only for the Royal family.
The locals welcomed them as gods. However, the sailors brought with them diseases that seriously impacted the Native Hawaiians killing many and resulting in Captain Cook being killed. Want to know how the happened then check out https://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/captain-cook-killed-in-hawaii.
Now Back to Today
But let’s get back to the present. The bay is now a protected marine area which is why swimmers cannot wear sunscreen in the water, are not allowed on the beach and all vessels are required to have a permit to enter the park. Information from the Division of State Parks Dept. of Land and Natural Resources.
Arriving at the bay everyone was put on their snorkeling gear and hit the water. The crew had equipment for those who did not have their own. Additionally, the crew supplied us with water, juices and snacks.
Snorkelling was amazing. We have done diving in many areas but this area was like swimming in an aquarium. So many types of fish and the colours are simply wow. We were told that due to the protection of the bay, the fish had few natural predators. I just floated above watching the interplay between the various fish and revelling in the view. We had a good long time at the Bay we certainly were not rushed. The ride back to the wharf was again filled with interesting information such as:
The amazing colours and designs resulting from the lava flows were fascinating as our guide took us for multiple close-up looks on our trip back. Looking at these lava formations you have to really respect the power that produced them.
I was most impressed with the information that our Captain shared it made our day. We have been on tours that are more talk than experiences – this was not one of those tours.
P.S. If you go on a Zodiac trip wear a hat that you can secure as the wind will send it flying.