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Watching and protecting whales 

Dolphin and whale watching from Kona (Hawaii)

TAKE A RESPONSIBLE APPROACH TO MEETING CETACEANS

Photograph by Pierre Lavagne de Castellan, head of the Shelltone Whale Project

A word from Pierre

The Hawaiian island chain is one of the world's most important habitats for North Pacific humpback whales, and Kona offers some of the best whale-watching in Hawaii.

Scientists estimate that two-thirds of the total North Pacific population (around 4,000 to 5,000 whales) migrate to Hawaiian waters each winter.

Lisa Denning, our friend and Shelltone Whale Project expert, goes out to sea regularly with the Sunlight on water team, whose professionalism, enthusiasm and gentle, cetacean-aware approach she appreciates.

The Shelltone Whale Project cetacean-watching charter is fully respected.

Pierre-Lavagne-de-Castellan-black-high-res

Dolphin and whale watching trip in Kona (Hawaii)

Whale and dolphin watching on our 12-metre 'Sunlight on water' boat !

The ship has a capacity of 35 passengers, but only 24 are booked for reasons of comfort and space.
There are shade cloths, and the ride is stable and smooth. The seats are comfortable and padded. Hydrophones (underwater microphones) are available to listen to the whales singing live on the multiple speakers.
A naturalist will comment live on the encounters with the cetaceans.

What to bring: sun cream (only for the reefs), sunglasses, light jacket or sweatshirt, camera.

What's provided: water/sodas/juice, light snacks. Photos of your trip are also included.

Description of the activity 

Length of outing: 2h00
Age: no minimum age
Capacity: 10 people maximum
Species to watch: humpback whales, dolphins

Additional information: 

  • Our unique approach allows you to experience these special moments in small groups.

Photo gallery

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

Between December and April, the humpback whales observed by the Sunlight on Water team in Kona are in their birthing and mating season. It's during this period that their songs are at their most melodious and complex, and you'll be able to enjoy these marvellous songs thanks to the acoustic equipment on board the boat.

Book your sailing trip in Kona (Hawaii)

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Whale songs - 43 min.

Recorded 10 miles off Baille Argent on 26 April 2016. We are convinced that there is a message in this song. Good listening!

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