The day of the excursion was sunny and calm. Captain Taylor, Brian and Sage from BiteMe sportfishing treated us to a morning of whale sightings, swimming/chasing dolphins and one turtle sighting. The turtle sighting and first dolphin sighting right beside the boat happened just as the boat left Honokohau Harbor. It was amazing! While whale watching was not the focus of this excursion, the captain received word that some whales were spotted nearby, so took us to see them and we were not disappointed. There was still plenty of time to find the pods of dolphins and snorkel with them. Pool noodles are provided for those who need some extra buoyancy. I am not a strong swimmer and was not able to follow the dolphins too closely but Sage took my hand on a few occasions to bring me closer to the action. Some in the group were able to have some close encounters with the dolphins, but even my kids who stayed on the boat were able to get amazing views of the dolphin action which included the spinner dolphins jumping out of the water. Brian immediately jumped into the water and saved my husband when he needed help. You will be safe in their hands! My only disappointment was the snorkelling spot in Pawai Bay (chosen instead of Kealakekua Bay due to crowds) which was not as amazing as the rest of the trip, but this may have been due to me not venturing too far from where the boat was moored.