Excitement courses through my body in anticipation of my first ever ride on a Zodiac. Our Captain Zodiac “5-Hour Beat the Crowd” adventure is about to begin on this beautiful sunny morning on the Island of Hawaii. Standing on the dock Captain Collin and Bryce share the rules of the ride. Our bags, hats and shoes are stowed away and 10 of us, 5 on each side of the Zodiac take our places. One foot under the rope, sunglasses on and cameras ready we head out to the open ocean for our adventure. Make sure to apply your sunscreen prior to boarding the zodiac, so it can absorb completely in order to protect the reef!
Marine Life
As we cruise the open waters, Captain Collin notices a fishing boat with a Marlin on the line. You can’t help but watch in awe as the Marlin battles the line, belly to the sun as it tries to break free. It is too small to keep so this becomes a catch and release but the expertise of the fisherman is a vision to behold.
Pilot Whales
It isn’t long before we encounter a group of Pilot Whales. As we approach, the male moves to the boat side to protect the female. As each one breaks the surface, you can see the challenges that they have faced imprinted on their fins. Bullet holes, line tears and cut away fins are just a few of the markings visible to the naked eye. These are often caused by coming into contact with fishermen. Captain Collin shares their history, challenges and more. Being part of a team that tracks the life and journey of these amazing mammals, it is interesting to learn all about them. It is a picture of beauty as they gracefully break the surface and then disappear below time and time again.
Snorkel
The two-hour snorkel adventure takes us to Kealakekua Bay home to the Captain Cook Monument. Protection of the reef, coral and marine life keeps us from climbing to the beach. Visions of colorful fish, sea urchins and a wide variety of coral await us below. If you can touch it, you are too close. Care needs to be take to protect the reef & coral but also ourselves with the sea urchins. Their spines can be dangerous & cause health issues if they were to pierce our skin. However, a slow swim along the surface will give you an up close and personal view of the colorful fish below. The water is crystal clear and the landscape surrounding us is rugged and beautiful. A very peaceful and enjoyable adventure.
Spinner Dolphins
Our Captain Zodiac adventure continues as Captain Collin and Bryce take us to see spinner dolphins as they swim around in one of their favorite spots. Watching them swim, jump and spin keep you focused for their next launch! Their movement is graceful both in and out of the water. They are smaller than I realized but the power they display as they break the surface to spin is breathtaking! While we are tempted to get in and swim with them, it is all about respect for them and their environment. We are but mere visitors to their home.
Manta Ray
An unexpected opportunity presents itself as Bryce sees Manta Rays swimming close and we turn the Zodiac around to view their antics as they flip and swim. What I didn’t realize is their bellies are white and when they flip over they appear turquoise in the reflection of the water. The turquoise belly as it glowed just under the surface was so intense as they glided around us. I understand that they are even more beautiful at night during the Manta Ray Adventure.
Story of the Cliffs
Our tour takes us into and around caves, coves where we get a glimpse of Pele as her image is forever ingrained in the cliffs. Captain Collin shares the history as we explore the rugged cliffs, caves, lava formations that are home to parrots, goats and so much more. As we glide in and out of these areas, you can’t help but feel the energy that exudes all around you. If you just let go and relax you can almost feel the presence of those who came before.
Wild Ride
This incredible tour is filled with wild rides, quick, tight turns and an experience you will not soon forget. Unexpected, we roar into one of the coves straight at the rock formations. It seems like we will not have time to stop. One quick turn that leaves us breathless, takes us away from disaster. An experience, I thoroughly enjoyed and will remember always. Sitting on the sides of the Zodiac, one foot under the rope and holding on to another one as we fly across the waves with the wind and spray in our faces. In comparison, to us lifting off our seat, Bryce’s butt never moves. It is like he is one with the Zodiac and the waves. A sense of freedom envelops you but only too soon, it must come to an end.
Variety of Tours
Captain Zodiac’s “5-Hour Beat the Crowd” adventure is perfect to experience everything without crowds. No matter which one you choose, you will not be disappointed. There is something for everyone. You can do a 4-hour morning or afternoon, 3-hour dolphin swim, whale watch or sunset whale watch. Want something more specialized to you? Then the exclusive charters will be perfect. The owners Bill & Linda have thought of everything to give you the best experience ever!
Adventure Grammy Recap
Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions is something you must experience when on the Island of Hawaii. The Captain, Crew and Company are by far one of the best I’ve ever experienced. In business for over 40 years, they really know how to provide an amazing adventure. You learn the history of the Island plus gain a strong respect for the people and the marine life that reside here. This is a thrill ride that keeps you energized throughout the trip. We had one of the best adventures on the Island! It was a roller coaster of laughter, heart stopping excitement and beautiful scenery. Captain Zodiac is committed to delivering an adventure you will not soon forget. So what are you waiting for?
Time to get your adventure on!