While the actual experience of seeing Manta Rays up close was amazing, Capt. Bill’s demeanor and treatment of some of the guests was less than desired. We had to listen to Capt. Bill go on about all the money he spent on the boat and why his boat was the best, during our pre-boarding informational session. We all clearly looked at the hype online and already paid for the excursion. Not necessary to hear a self serving message again.
On the boat, there were some younger boys - around 8-12 yrs old. A boy was upset and scared during the excursion and then needed to use the restroom. Capt Bill said to the distraught boy “you must be looking for the ladies room.” Unacceptable from anyone in this day and age, never mind someone depending on word of mouth from his customers.
Another Capt. Bill moment came when a passenger mentioned that the seas were awfully rough - he responded “it’s winter time sweetheart.” Like she was supposed to know - might be good to mention average sea
We did truly value the other two staff members - very helpful and caring the whole time. Maholo to them.
Lastly, we arrived 2 hours early to get a mooring spot. While this was important to do for this captain, you may want to find a boat that pops in at the last minute, as they see the same action. Waiting for 2 hours in the rough water was less than ideal and led to at least half a dozen getting seasick and not able to take part in the experience.
Réponse de l'hôte
Mar 2020
hi we are sorry you felt that way and apologize accordingly we run our trips on a set schedule for a host of reasons most importantly securing a mooring and a choice spot for viewing. people proneness to seasickness is something we cannot judge or avoid - when this does occasionally happens no feels worse than us, it does add additional stress on the crew, captain and guests. the manta viewing guidelines are in place not only for the safety of the manta rays but also for our guest, we take them seriously. i am sure captain bills comments were meant to be in jest, if they were taken any other way we offer an additional apology for this and ensure it wont happen again. we offer a return trip for anyone who is not completely satisfied or happy with their experience for any reason - we hope you take us up on this at anytime in the future when you return to the big island. we earned our certificate of excellence and are sure we can show this to you in better conditions . mahalo capt dan