Adventure brief
Premium Advanced 2 Tank Long Range Charter
Dive deep into South Kona’s lava tubes and vibrant reefs with Kona Honu Divers’ long-range 2-tank charter. Expect whale sightings, expert guiding, and a full day cruising Hawaii’s dynamic coastline.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, offers one of the most dynamic dive environments in the world, and Kona Honu Divers is at the forefront of delivering premium underwater adventures. Operating out of 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy, this expert dive company hosts the Premium Advanced 2 Tank Long Range Charter, a seven-hour excursion designed for experienced divers seeking to push their boundaries along the rugged South Kona coastline. Departing from the Honokohau Marina, this trip takes divers on a swift journey aboard a 33-foot World Cat, capable of covering extensive distances to rich dive sites that showcase Hawaii's unique volcanic ocean floor.
The route includes South Kona’s striking lava tubes — underwater caves shaped by historic lava flow — where crystal-clear waters reveal framed arches and tunnels alive with marine life. Nearby, vibrant coral reefs teem with tropical fish and elusive critters, rewarding divers with immersive encounters beneath the surface. Beyond the marine spectacle, this charter blends dynamic wildlife sightings into the journey.
Whale and dolphin encounters are not uncommon during the boat ride, adding a thrilling surface-level experience to the dive day. Between tanks, guests enjoy a well-prepared boxed lunch while soaking in panoramic views of the island’s volcanic coastline, an unbeatable perch for ocean and mountain vistas. Kona Honu Divers sets a high standard with strict diver requirements to ensure safety and group harmony — divers must have logged at least 25 dives and demonstrate strong buoyancy and air consumption skills.
Nitrox fill is included, optimizing dive times and safety profiles. For adventurers ready to navigate Hawaii’s textured underwater terrain with expert guidance and a fast, comfortable boat, Kona Honu Divers’ long-range charter delivers a compelling blend of nature, challenge, and Hawaiian coastal beauty. It’s a standout offering on the Big Island, ideal for divers craving rare geological formations and the chance to see large pelagic species in their natural environment.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Meet Early and Preparedessential
Arrive at Honokohau Marina 15 minutes before departure and ensure waivers are signed by 5 PM the day prior.
- 02Bring Your Dive Certificationessential
A dive card (physical or e-card) is mandatory to participate; no certification means no dive.
- 03Use Mineral-Based Sunscreenwarning
Protect yourself and the reefs by applying only mineral sunscreens; chemical sunscreens are prohibited.
- 04Maintain Good Buoyancy Controlessential
This trip requires advanced buoyancy skills to safely navigate lava tubes and complex reef structures.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Dive Computer
Critical for tracking dive time and depth on these multi-level short and long-range dives.
EssentialWet Suit (3-5mm)
Provides thermal protection in cooler water and during wind-exposed boat time.
fall|winterEssentialSurface Marker Buoy
Enhances safety by marking your position during ascents and boat pickups.
EssentialReef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and sensitive coral ecosystems from harmful chemicals.
spring|summer|fall|winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
South Kona Lava Tubes – rarely accessed underwater caves, Kaiwi Point – drift dive with unique reef formations
Local fauna
Humpback whales, Spinner dolphins
Historic heritage
South Kona’s coastline is shaped by historic volcanic flows that created extensive underwater lava tubes prized by divers.
Mindful exploration
Kona Honu Divers emphasizes the use of mineral sunscreens and careful marine practices to protect fragile reef ecosystems.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Inside lava tubes, Above reefs looking down, Coastline from the boat
- Subjects
- Underwater caves and arches, Marine life including whales and dolphins, Colorful tropical reefs
- Best times
- Morning light, Midday for underwater clarity, Golden hour on deck
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What level of certification is required for this charter?
Divers must have at least 25 logged dives and have been diving within the last 6 months.
Is equipment rental available?
Yes, equipment can be rented for an additional fee upon request.
Are meals included during the charter?
Yes, a boxed lunch with coastal views is provided between dives.
What is the minimum age to join the dive?
Participants must be 18 years or older, though exceptions exist for certified Junior Rescue Divers.
What happens if I arrive late for the charter?
The boat departs promptly; late arrivals cannot join and are not refunded.
Is Nitrox available on this dive?
Nitrox gas is provided free of charge to extend bottom time and improve decompression safety.