HILO BOAT RENTAL FIELD GUIDE
Private Power and Quiet Depths: A Tailored Offshore Day from Hilo Aboard a 36' Wellcraft Scarab
Custom private charters along Hilo’s east coast, from brief 2‑hour outings to full 6‑hour days, let groups of up to six design dives, dolphin swims, whale viewing or coastal exploration.
Private Power and Quiet Depths: A Tailored Offshore Day from Hilo Aboard a 36' Wellcraft Scarab.
Adventure brief
Private Power and Quiet Depths: A Tailored Offshore Day from Hilo Aboard a 36' Wellcraft Scarab
From Hilo’s harbor you can step onto Malama i Ke Kai, a 36‑foot Wellcraft Scarab, and shape a private day on the ocean: snorkeling reefs, seeking dolphins and seasonal humpbacks, conducting dives or simply chasing the island’s coastline. The operator configures each charter to your group’s goals and to sea and wildlife conditions, with a captain and crew delivering a personalized outing for up to six guests.
Experience the ultimate private boat adventure aboard the 36’ Wellcraft Scarab Tournament in Hilo, Hawaii. Whether you're seeking to swim alongside dolphins, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, or simply soak in the stunning coastline, this tailored charter can accommodate up to six guests for an intimate and personalized journey on the water. Hilo Ocean Adventures offers a seamless blend of luxury and excitement, where your group's preferences shape the day. The boat’s sleek design and powerful performance ensure smooth sailing, while the knowledgeable crew enhances your experience with local insights and safety. From crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life to panoramic views of Hilo’s lush cliffs and volcanic landscapes, this private boat tour is perfect for adventurers looking to create lasting memories away from the crowds. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just want an exclusive way to explore Hilo’s coastline, this charter delivers an unforgettable day on the ocean.
Route Schematic
Typical Stops and On‑Water Options
Stops are chosen to match your interests — common options include wildlife encounters, reef snorkeling, and dive sites within the greater Hilo area.
Dolphin and Marine Wildlife Encounter
Position the boat for close but respectful observation and swimming with local dolphins; timing and location vary with seasonal activity.
Reef Snorkel / Coastal Exploration
Shallow reef stops allow snorkeling and coastal observation of Hilo’s underwater landscapes and marine life.
SCUBA or Advanced Dive Sites
Private SCUBA experiences and advanced dives can be arranged; when diving with the operator, a Hilo Ocean Adventures Divemaster will lead the dive unless your group provides an insured divemaster or higher certification.
Seasonal Humpback Whale Viewing
During appropriate seasons the charter can prioritize whale‑watching stops in areas known for humpback activity, adjusted for conditions and timing.
Safety note: activities and stop selection depend on sea conditions; diving has additional staffing and certification requirements and specialty services may carry extra fees.
What the day feels like
What a Day Aboard Feels Like
Mornings or afternoons aboard this private charter alternately feel like a precise working platform and a small floating base camp: fast runs to rich snorkeling reefs or dive drop points, quiet stops for dolphin encounters or seasonal whale watching, and hands‑on support from the captain and crew for dives, photography or research. The itinerary is yours to shape within the greater Hilo area and is adapted to prevailing sea conditions and wildlife activity.
THE BOAT
A Performance Platform for Small Groups
Step aboard Malama i Ke Kai, a 36‑ft Wellcraft Scarab powered by twin 700 hp engines — a performance vessel built for comfortable, fast transit between dive sites, wildlife encounters, and coastal lookouts while carrying up to six guests and a professional crew.
THE ROUTE
Customizable Itineraries Along East Hawaiʻi
Charters are bespoke: choose short coastal explorations, multi‑site snorkeling, private SCUBA sessions, or seasonal whale and dolphin outings — each day is plotted to match your objectives and local ocean conditions.
THE EXPERIENCE
Private, Intimate, and Versatile
Because the vessel is offered as a private charter, it’s suitable for families, photographers, research teams, divers and celebrations — the operator provides a captain and crew, fuel, safety equipment and custom itinerary planning for a single party of up to six people.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this charter suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring reef‑safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, towel, a light rain jacket and any snacks or beverages you prefer. Additional activity fees or equipment rentals (for SCUBA, for example) may apply.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What are the available charter lengths and typical rates?
Charters are offered in 2‑ to 6‑hour blocks; published rates in the overview list 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours and 6 hours with corresponding pricing, and the operator can confirm final pricing at booking.
How many people can I bring?
The private charter accommodates a maximum of six guests per outing.
What ages are allowed on board?
Guests aged 8 and older are accepted for this charter.
Can we do SCUBA diving on the charter?
Yes — private SCUBA experiences and advanced dive excursions are options; only certified divers may rent SCUBA equipment, and if diving with Hilo Ocean Adventures a company Divemaster is required unless your group brings an insured Divemaster or higher certification.
What is included in the charter price?
Charter fees cover the private captain and crew, fuel, vessel operation, safety equipment and custom itinerary planning; specialty activities such as diving or other services may incur additional fees.
Can we customize the itinerary for a special occasion or project?
Yes — the operator emphasizes fully customizable itineraries for celebrations, photography, research, dives and wildlife viewing, tailored to your group’s goals and ocean conditions.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:57:48.208Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.