As the peak of whale-watching season in Hawaii approaches, Travel Agent breaks down the hottest tours for clients looking check out humpback whales in the Aloha State.
Humpback whales visit Hawaiian waters each year from November to May, with the peak of the season being from January to March.
Honua Kai Resort & Spa’s New Whale-Watching Experience
Honua Kai Resort & Spa, an all-suite luxury resort located on Maui's Kaanapali North Beach, recently announced the launch of a new winter whale watching excursion.
"We are excited to welcome guests this winter and holiday season to a beachfront resort that is better than ever," said Claudio Andrade, general manager of the Honua Kai Resort & Spa, in a written release. "Whether travelers are looking for a romantic winter escape or a fun-filled family holiday, Honua Kai Resort & Spa has everything they need to make lasting memories."
The resort's new “Tons of Fun Whale Watching Package” offers accommodations in a one- or two-bedroom suite with daily breakfast for two and a choice between a traditional whale watching boat tour or a rafting tour. Each excursion includes a "Whale Watch Power Pack," consisting of binoculars, sunscreen, Honua Kai logo cap, beach bag, drinks and snacks.
Honua Kai Resort & Spa is inviting travelers to share their holiday and winter travel memories on social media using #HKMemories. Select images may be chosen by the resort to be featured on the official Instagram @honuakai.
Visit www.honuakai.com
Star of Honolulu Set to Kick Off Whale-Watching Season in Hawaii
From December 23 to April 5, 2018, families and couples can enjoy the Star of Honolulu’s “Premier Whale Watch Cruise,” featuring views of Hawaii’s humpback whales and a “Child Free” special.
The Premier Whale Watch cruise departs at 12 p.m. and returns at 2:30 p.m. Prices start at $53 for adults and free for children (ages 3-11) with each paying adult.
Guests can also upgrade to enjoy the Taste of Hawaii Buffet Lunch, which is $71 for adults and $10 for children. Transportation from the Waikiki area is available for an additional $14 per person. Special rates for Hawaii residents are also available with valid Hawaii I.D.
An Early Bird Whale Watch aboard the Star (from 8:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.) with “Child Free” special is also available. Guests may also upgrade to a hot breakfast buffet.
Guests are guaranteed to see humpback whales during the tour; if whales are not spotted, a free return “Whale Check” is issued to try again (meal and transportation optional).
With a 60-foot high observation deck and four walk-around decks, the Star of Honolulu offers an abundance of space and the ship’s three types of stabilizers allow passengers to cruise along Hawaii’s waters comfortably. Star of Honolulu’s crew of certified naturalists will entertain guests while educating them about whales through informative displays, narration, handouts and a fun keiki program.
The cruise also offers guests the chance to engage in a variety of Hawaiian cultural activities such as lei making and hula and ukulele lessons.
Visit www.starofhonolulu.com
Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s Kaanapali Properties Have Whale Watching at Every Angle
Guests are encouraged to travel with binoculars when staying at Aqua-Aston’s three-and four-star Kaanapali properties: Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach, Aston Kaanapali Shores, Aston Mahana at Kaanapali, Aston Paki Maui, Aston at Papakea Resort, and Maui Kaanapali Villas.
Offering multiple beachfront, ocean view, and garden view condo-style living, guests can experience whale watching from every angle. Aqua-Aston’s Kaanapali properties are also located near other whale watching attractions such as The Whaler Center of Hawaii. which is slated to open later this year, and the Pacific Whale Foundation, which offers a roster of eco-friendly activities.
Visit www.aqua-aston.com and keep visiting www.travelagentcentral.com for all your latest travel news. Be sure to follow Travel Agent’s Joe Pike on Twitter @TravelPike and Instagram @pike5260.
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