We started our morning at 8:00 AM with a welcome by the boat captain. He welcomed everyone then sent us to the boat to get our gear and board the boat. At the boat we met the Master of the Deck who got us checked out on gear and guided us to board the boat. The boat is an all aluminum twin-hull with two 300 hp outboards that appears to be in very good condition. There are two seats on each side of a center aisle that are mesh with a fabric cover up top for sun shade. Just before leaving the dock they go over a safety briefing and rules for the excursion which was done quickly, competently, and with some humor to lighten the mood.
Once underway we were told to look for splashes in the water as that is the sign of spinner dolphins. We didn't see any splashes, but we did get to an area with other tour companies boats and swimmers in the water. We quickly got in the water and were almost immediately above a pod of approximately 20 spinner dolphins. We were able to observe them play, spin, splash, and swim for about 45 minutes before boarding the boat again.
Then we headed south to Kealakekua Bay Marine Sanctuary for reef snorkeling. The boat crew gave us detailed instructions on what to look for, where to stay, and that we are not allowed to go ashore because of rules governing the sanctuary. Then we all got in the water and snorkeled around a reef experiencing a lot of different marine life for about 45 minutes.
Back on board the boat we had sandwiches waiting for us in addition to beverages and other snacks. On the ride back to the harbor they brought us to a couple of really cool sites along the coast that have cultural and historic importance.