Kona Submarine Tour
The ocean off the coast of Kona holds an enchanting world that few get to witness firsthand. If you want a unique and mesmerizing adventure on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Kona Submarine Tour offers just that.
While snorkeling and scuba diving are great ways to see the vast underwater ecosystem off the coast of Kona, those activities aren’t for everyone. If you aren’t comfortable swimming in the ocean or if you are visiting the Big Island with young children, snorkeling and scuba diving aren’t an option.
The Kona Submarine Tour is the perfect way to experience viewing marine life and coral reefs without even getting wet.
We went on our first Kona submarine adventure years ago before we moved to the island of Hawaii. Eli was only three or four years old. We all loved it so much that we’ve gone again several times since.
It is one of our favorite activities to suggest when we have guests in town. Seriously, who doesn’t want to ride in a real submarine?!?
If you think you can’t afford to travel to Hawaii read – Family Travel on a Budget- 11 Helpful Tips To Make Family Vacations More Affordable
Kona Submarine Tour Fun Facts
-Atlantis Adventures opened the Atlantis IV submarine for tours from Kona, Hawaii in 1988. It was the first submarine tour in not only Hawaii but also in the United States.
-Two sunken ships are visible from the Kona submarine tour. The ships sunk 10 years ago and now have become a haven for marine life.
-The Kona Atlantis Submarine goes down to a depth of 100 feet and explores a coral reef spanning 25 acres.
-Color is filtered out of the water the deeper the submarine travels and by the time the submarine reaches 100 feet, blue is the only color remaining.
-Expect to see all kinds of marine life including reef fish like eels, snapper, puffer fish, parrotfish, and tang; as well as non-reef residents like sharks, turtles, dolphins, and rays.
We lucked out and saw an octopus on one of our trips!
The Atlantis Adventures Kona Submarine Tour Details
The tour starts with a short shuttle boat ride out to the submarine. The shuttle boat ride alone is lots of fun. It is awesome to look back and see the town of Kona from the boat. Dolphins are often hanging around the harbor so there is a good chance of seeing dolphins on your way out or back.
If aren’t on the first tour of the day, you can watch the previous submarine emerge from underwater.
The shuttle boat is tied to the submarine and the passengers from the previous trip are loaded on the shuttle boat for a return trip. You can then board the submarine.
Each passenger is directed to a seat with their own large viewing window.
Once everyone has boarded and the safety talk is done the submarine submerges. The tour of the incredible underwater world begins.
It is crazy to actually be in the submarine and experience the doors sealing shut and heading down under the water. It is such a unique and exciting experience.
The submarine captain is extremely knowledgeable and points out any interesting marine life that is spotted. The captain will also turn the submarine around so passengers on both sides of the sub can observe the fish and coral reef.
After an amazing 45 minutes underwater, the submarine heads back up to the surface. Passengers then disembark and transfer to the shuttle to head back to the dock. Keep an eye out for dolphins!
Atlantis Submarine Adventure Kona FAQ
Here are some answers to FAQs about the Kona Submarine Tour-
Are there any age restrictions for the Kona Atlantis Submarine Tour?
No age restrictions, but Children must be 36 inches in height to take the submarine tour.
How Long is the Kona Atlantis Submarine Tour?
The Submarine portion of the tour will last 45 to 50 minutes. Expect the entire tour to last 1 hour and 30 minutes. Plan to check in for the tour at least 30 minutes early.
What is the best way to book the Kona Atlantis Submarine tour?
I’ve found that the Atlantis Submarine Tour Kona website offers the best price to book your underwater adventure.
I also like booking directly because you can see how full the sub is before you book.
The Atlantis Submarine tour is one of the most unique and unforgettable activities available on the Big Island of Hawaii. It is well worth the price and just might be the highlight of your Hawaii vacation.
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