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Photo: Ed Lyman/NOAA, under NOAA permit #14682 Did you know that whale entanglement is a significant issue impacting marine wildlife, particularly large baleen whales? When entangled whales are spotted, response teams use specialized equipment to attempt to free them. This can be dangerous for both the whale and the rescuers, which is why education and…

Black Triggerfish (Black Durgon) are known in Hawaiian as Humhumu ‘ele’ele and are very common to see while snorkeling. They are often found in the waters around Hawaii and other parts of the Pacific Ocean. Here are some interesting facts about the black durgon fish: Black Triggerfish photo by Russell Gilbert Appearance The black durgon has a distinctive appearance, characterized by its deep, oval body and a predominantly black coloration. When a good deal of light is applied directly on the fish, it can reveal a number of hues, but in most lighting situations, it appears a black velvet. Habitat Black durgon fish are commonly found in shallow coastal waters, typically around coral reefs and rocky areas. They prefer depths ranging from about 1 to 30 meters (3 to 100 feet), where they can find plenty of food and shelter….

A Humpback Whale with a Captain Zodiac raft in the background In Hawaii, we are lucky to have whales that live in our off-shore waters year-round, along with some species that occasionally pass through and visit. If you’re looking for the best time to come to Hawaii and see the most whales, the winter is…

Kealakekua Bay Kealakekua Bay holds significant historical and cultural importance in Hawaii. It was once the site of a thriving Hawaiian community and was a place of great significance for the native people. The bay is also famous for being the location where Captain James Cook, the British explorer, was killed in 1779. View of…

In this first blog of our series about getting to know the fish in Kealakekua Bay, let’s introduce you to the yellow tang!  This is a popular and iconic fish found in the waters surrounding Kona Big Island in Hawaii. It is adored for its vibrant yellow color, which adds beauty to the underwater ecosystem…

There are several reasons why snorkeling in Hawaii is so popular: the abundant marine life, crystal-clear water, and stunning coral reefs. Another reason is that you may even get the chance to see fish that are only found here in Hawaii! Here’s a list of the Top 5 rare tropical fish to be on the…

Honokohau Harbor welcome sign If you’re looking for something to do after your tour with Captain Zodiac, we have good news! Whether you’re hungry or looking for more adventure, we have a few great suggestions close by (and by close by, we mean walking distance from our shop, right in Honokōhau Harbor). If you’re hungry… So,…

August is an exciting time to visit the Big Island of Hawaii, as there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in cultural festivals, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone on the island this month. Here are some of the top events to check out…

Snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii is an incredible experience that allows you to explore marine life and stunning coral reefs. However, it’s important to snorkel responsibly and sustainably to ensure that these ecosystems are protected for future generations to enjoy. That’s why we put together a list of how to practice Pono when…

Captain Zodiac tour snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay The best snorkeling spot in Hawaii is hands down Kealakekua Bay, located on the Big Island! Take a trip down the Kona Coast to this marine sanctuary located at the foot of the Captain Cook Memorial. We’ve ranked this spot the best snorkeling for a few reasons: year…